🇰🇷 South Korea
South Korea offers citizenship through naturalization after meeting residency and integration requirements. General Naturalization requires 5+ consecutive years residence with F-5 permanent residence, age 19+, good conduct, financial stability (income exceeding GNI ~₩30 million or ₩30 million bank balance), and Korean language/culture proficiency tested via comprehensive exam and interview. Simplified Naturalization for those with Korean connections: marriage-based requires 3 years married plus 1 year residence, or 2 years on F-6 visa; heritage-based requires 3 years residence. Special Naturalization for exceptional talent (sports, science, etc.) has reduced requirements. Application fee ₩100,000 (~$80). Processing takes 1-1.5 years. Dual citizenship permitted under Simplified Naturalization; General Naturalization typically requires renouncing original citizenship. Two reference letters from professionals required.
Processing Time
1 year to 1.5 years
Cost
₩100,000 (~$80 USD) application fee
Duration
Permanent
Path to Permanent Residence
Yes
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