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1. Common Qualification Requirements (Income Criteria Update)
Economic Self-Sufficiency (GNI Criteria Change): The per capita Gross National Income (GNI) announced by the Bank of Korea for the previous year, which is applied when applying for permanent residency, has changed. The current GNI criteria amount is 49,955,000 won (approximately 50 million won). It has risen significantly from the previous figure of 44,050,000 won, so it is necessary to update this when providing information.
Special Exception for Outstanding Overseas Koreans (Important): Those mit excellent Korean language proficiency (completion of Social Integration Program Level 5), graduates of elementary, middle, or high schools in Korea, or overseas Koreans who have obtained a bachelor's degree or higher in Korea can be recognized for their ability to maintain a living if they meet only 70% of the GNI, about 34,970,000 won.
Basic Character and Good Conduct: Social Integration Program (KIIP) completion and compliance with Korean law are still strictly examined.
2. Requirements for Qualification Change for Foreign National Overseas Koreans
F-4 Holders: Can change after continuous residence in Korea for 2 years or more and meeting the GNI income requirement (GNI 70% if special exception is applied).
H-2 Holders (Note Policy Change): Due to immigration policy changes, the policy of converting H-2 to F-4 and merging it is stronger. When converting from H-2 to permanent residency directly, only personal income is recognized, and strict requirements like long-term employment in the same company in allowed industries such as manufacturing, farming, livestock, and fishing are maintained. (In practice, most people first convert to F-4 and then apply for permanent residency.)
3. Benefits and Activity Scope of F-5 Qualification
Consistent with previous data, there is no restriction on employment activities including simple labor, and the duty to extend the stay period is exempt.
Renewal of Permanent Resident Card: The obligation to renew it every 10 years from the issuance date is same, and if not renewed within the period, a fine of 250 million won or less is applied.
4. Social Integration Program (KIIP) and Exemption Targets
Special Exception for Seniors 60 Years and Older: Overseas Koreans who are 60 years or more on the application day are exempted from the basic character (Korean language ability) proof requirements such the Social Integration Program.
Other Exemption Targets: Holders of domestic Ph.D. degrees, minors 13 years or less, and those who have already proven Korean language ability in previous visa applications and have been recognized as exempt are included.
Practical Summary Note
When updating the information document, the core points to be highlighted are the [GNI per capita income criteria which is about 50 million won level of upgradation] and the [GNI 70% easing special exception and exemption from basic requirements for seniors 60 years or more] clauses that are favorable for overseas Koreans.