I entered Korea in May of 2023 on an F-4 visa that was issued a couple months prior. I was issued a two year stay, and assumed the visa needed to be renewed by May of 2025.
I’ve been back in the States visiting family and friends, and do not have a precise return date to Korea yet.
I emailed the consulate in Atlanta, and I am still confused. They forwarded my email to at least five different people before ultimately replying in Korean that they cannot help me. I was just looking for clarification. After a few more emails, someone finally responded saying that my visa is for five years, but can only stay for two. They told me that they would “probably” give me a new sticker when I get back.
Any clarification would be grately appreciated! Just to be safe, I had an FBI background check done the other day, but haven’t started the apostille process yet.
Do I need to renew before May? Will I need an apostilled FBI check for the two year renewal? The only thing they did tell me for sure was that a visa cannot be renewed from outside of Korea. They told me I would need to redo the application process if I wanted to do things from here in the States.
I lived in Korea for five years in the past, and unfortunately let it lapse. The application process was challenging both times because of my Mom’s name changes through marriages not matching the family history. So I don’t want to go through this again for a third time.
Please advise! Thank you!
submitted by /u/AlwaysnextyearCLE
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