How to Expedite the Application Process
Preparing for Korean Nationality Recovery?
When preparing for nationality recovery, many applicants realize that the process requires more documents than expected,
and the screening period may extend indefinitely depending on individual circumstances.
That’s why it’s crucial to understand the average processing timeline and how long each step typically takes.
This allows you to plan important life events like your return to Korea, job transitions, or family plans without unexpected disruptions.
Below is a detailed explanation of the full procedure, timeline, and important considerations for nationality recovery in Korea.
1. Nationality Loss Report
This is the formal process of reporting that you've lost your Korean nationality due to acquiring foreign citizenship.
✔If you're abroad, this can be completed at a Korean diplomatic mission.
✔If you're in Korea, visit the Immigration Office or Foreigner Division.
✅ Key Documents:
✔Nationality Recovery Application Form
✔Basic Certificate, Family Relations Certificate
✔Proof of foreign citizenship (passport, green card, etc.)
✔Other documents may include: Immigration records, Proof of nationality loss, Statement on your life and work abroad
More details on required documents can be found in the linked article below.
📌 Booking delays at immigration offices may affect your schedule.
In Korea, reservation wait times can range from 2–3 days to 2–3 weeks depending on your region.
If using an administrative agent: expect 2 immigration visits
If applying yourself: expect 3 visits
❗️While visa applications can be handled by a proxy, nationality matters must be done in person.
2. Issuance of F-4 Visa (Overseas Korean Visa)
The F-4 visa allows you to legally reside in Korea long-term before your nationality is recovered.
If abroad, apply through the Korean embassy or consulate.
If in Korea, apply at the immigration office.
✅ Valid for 1 to 3 years initially, with possible extensions
✅ Enables almost all economic activities
❗️To apply for nationality recovery, you must first obtain an F-4 visa and alien registration (residence card).
📌 Those on a tight schedule can prepare documents in advance and get the F-4 visa overseas before entering Korea—this shortens the process.
📌 If time is not urgent, simply bring the original citizenship certificate, and the rest can be handled in Korea with professional assistance.
3. Residence Card (거소증) Registration
This proves your actual residence in Korea—similar to a foreigner registration card.
✔Typically issued within 3 weeks after arrival and application
✔Once you have a residence number, you may proceed with nationality recovery
4. Nationality Recovery Application
Once previous steps are complete, apply at your local immigration office.
📌 If you're planning to leave Korea after applying, make sure to schedule your application between the issuance of your residence card and your departure date.
❗️Unless there are special restrictions, you can leave Korea after submitting your application.
5. Screening Period (Avg. 8–10 Months)
The review process includes:
✔Document review (1–2 months)
✔Review of document completeness, eligibility (additional documents may be requested)
✔Ministry of Justice Review (3–6 months):
Review of criminal history, purpose of residence, military obligations
May include interviews or phone checks
🔖 Typically, the first stage ends around 5–6 months after submission, followed by final Ministry of Justice review.
There is no separate notice until the final approval is granted—check the status via the HiKorea website.
6. Receipt of Nationality Recovery Approval Notice
Once approved, you will attend a nationality certificate ceremony to receive your documentation.
7. Pledge of Non-Exercise of Foreign Nationality
Within one year after receiving your nationality certificate, you must submit a written pledge to use only Korean nationality in Korea if you have dual citizenship.
If you complete the entire process yourself—
from nationality loss report to F-4 visa and nationality recovery—expect a total duration of around 3 months.
✅ With professional assistance, this may be shortened to 1.5 months.
✅ If you prepare your documents and obtain the F-4 visa abroad, you can complete nationality recovery within a one-month stay in Korea.
🔖 Many people ask: Is one month enough to receive the residence card with F-4?
→ For details, check this video
❗️Common Reasons for Delays or Rejections
✔Missing documents
✔Incorrect translation or notarization
✔Expired documentation
✔Lack of required apostille or embassy verification
✅ Be especially thorough with foreign documents—many require apostille or consular authentication.
✅ If you're asked to submit additional documents, missing the deadline can result in application rejection.
✅ Keep your contact information updated in case the immigration office needs to reach you.
Hanguk Visa provides customized visa solutions for overseas Koreans and foreign nationals living in Korea.
We offer consulting and agency services for personal and business visas, including translation, stay duration management, and more.
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We also guide you through the entire nationality recovery process: nationality loss report, recovery application, and non-exercise oath.
Our team can handle all document preparation, translations, notarizations, and apostille procedures with speed and accuracy.
We also offer legal and administrative consultations to help with common issues in the nationality recovery process.
We’ll suggest the best visa solution for your specific situation.
📞Tel: 02-3210-1113
✉Kakao Channel: 한국비자
📣Instagram: @hanguk_visa
