Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship)
Long-term residents and spouses of Koreans applying to become Korean citizens.
The Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship) is a South Korean settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~₩300,000 / US$225 (naturalisation application)) and processing time (~1-2 years or longer), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship) is for
Long-term residents and spouses of Koreans applying to become Korean citizens.
This is full citizenship, the final step of settlement.
Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship) - eligibility criteria
- General: 5+ years' continuous residence; marriage route is shorter (2-3 years)
- Be an adult under Korean law with capacity
- Good conduct and clean record
- Sufficient livelihood / financial means
- Pass the naturalisation written test and interview (Korean language & society)
Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship) (South Korea) is ~₩300,000 / US$225 (naturalisation application), with an indicative processing time of ~1-2 years or longer. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at HiKorea (Korea Immigration).
| Type | Citizenship |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Inside Korea (application to the Ministry of Justice) |
| Length of stay | Permanent (citizenship) |
| Work rights | Unrestricted (as a citizen) |
| Study rights | Unrestricted |
| Government fee | ~₩300,000 / US$225 (naturalisation application) |
| Processing time | ~1-2 years or longer |
| Route to PR | This is full citizenship, the final step of settlement. |
Pathway & next steps
This is full citizenship, the final step of settlement.
Many applicants also compare F-5 · F-5 Permanent Residence, F-6 · F-6 Marriage Migrant (Spouse of a Korean), F-4 · F-4 Overseas Korean. Run a free VisaChief check to see which South Korean route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship) pitfalls we fix
Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship) cost?
The Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship) government fee is ~₩300,000 / US$225 (naturalisation application). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at HiKorea (Korea Immigration) before applying.
How long does the Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-2 years or longer. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship) lead to permanent residence?
This is full citizenship, the final step of settlement.
Can I work on the Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship)?
Work rights: Unrestricted (as a citizen).
Who can apply for the Naturalisation (Korean Citizenship)?
Long-term residents and spouses of Koreans applying to become Korean citizens.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official South Korea government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- HiKorea (Korea Immigration) - official South Korea immigration authority