The Ministry of Justice has extended the period of stay so that when a foreign child who was born in Korea or came to Korea partway through childhood with their parents attends elementary, middle, or high school in Korea and has received a legal status of stay, the child’s parents and guardians can stay in Korea until the child turns 24. This rule has been in force since 26 February 2026.

What changed

  • Before: parents could stay in Korea only until 1 year after the child graduated from high school or became an adult (19).
  • Now: parents can stay in Korea until the child turns 24.

The Ministry of Justice said it made this change so that children can receive their parents’ care and support while preparing for independence, such as attending university or learning job skills.

Who is covered

The parents and guardians of a foreign child who was born in Korea or entered Korea partway through childhood, attends elementary, middle, or high school in Korea, and has received a legal status of stay. Under what conditions the child received a status of stay, and what status of stay is given to the parents, can differ from family to family, so you need to check with the immigration office with jurisdiction.

Refugee families

This rule does not apply as it is to every family of asylum seekers, recognized refugees, or humanitarian stay holders. Families who already have a status of stay based on a refugee application, refugee recognition, or humanitarian stay are reviewed according to their current status of stay. Check whether this rule applies to your family with the immigration office with jurisdiction or the Immigration Contact Center at 1345.

Things to check before applying

  • It is not an automatic extension. Parents must apply for an extension of their period of stay at the immigration office with jurisdiction and go through an individual review.
  • Documents: you may need the child’s Certificate of Enrollment, a document showing the family relationship, and residence documents for the child and the parents. Check the exact documents with the immigration office with jurisdiction before your period of stay ends.
  • Employment: an extended period of stay does not automatically mean you are allowed to work. Whether you can work depends on the status of stay the parent has received.

Contact

  • The immigration office with jurisdiction
  • Immigration Contact Center: 1345