Q: I have been working and living in Korea and will be looking to retire within the next five years (If I am lucky, I will be able to work a little longer than that). I was wondering if I could stay in Korea even after I retire. Thank you.

A: Visas are complicated.

Technically speaking, South Korea doesn’t offer retirement visas to foreign citizens, unfortunately.

The good thing is it seems like you have more than five years to prepare for your retirment.

So please consider these options:

If you are currently single, you could possibly find a partner who is Korean or an F-5 visa holder. I you marry this person, then your visa status is solved.

Or if you have Korean blood, say you are Korean-American, Korean-Canadian, etc, you are immediately eligible for a permanent residency.

Or if you own an apartment in Korea valued over $300,000, that would aid you in getting a visa.

Or if you invest a large sum of money such as $500,000 or more, you can become a perminant resident.

Or if you speak Korean really well and have published material as a scholar, that would also benefit you.

I think Busan Global Center is in the position for providing you with better information regarding Visa issues.

If you are interested, please contact the Busan Global Center where a consultant can help you free of charge or visit www.bfic.kr / or call 1577-7716.