Q: Hello my name is 세영, I am Korean and currently living in Busan. However, my boyfriend of three years is not Korean. Long story short, we are now in a long-distance relationship, and we miss each other greatly. I want him to come to Korea and experience the culture, but I don’t know much about visa statuses. Where should I begin?

A: Long distance relationships are not easy in general.

But a long-distance relationship during the pandemic? I couldn’t imagine how hard it must be.

Thank you for the question, 세영씨, but just a heads up.

Since you didn’t include any information regarding where he is from, how old he is, what he does for a living, or how long you want him to stay, it will be difficult to give you detailed information, but I will do my best to assist you.

So, the question is: Does he need a visa to live in Busan?

Yes, but he does not need one if he is staying less than three months since he would just be considered a tourist. If he wishes to stay longer than three months, it is necessary for him to apply for a visa.

What about H-1 Visa, aka a Working Holiday Visa?

Only if he is between 18 and 30 years old and is a citizen of a country that has signed an agreement with South Korea can he receive a Working Holiday Visa.

That includes the USA, Canada, the UK, France, Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan, Australia and about 20 other countries.

With this visa, he can spend up to a year in South Korea, working, traveling, studying, etc.

But the catch is: jobs for Working Holiday Visa holders are limited to part-time jobs mostly.

If he is looking for a full-time position, he may need to apply for a different visa.

Obtaining a visa is complicated, so I recommend you talk to a consultant at the Busan Global Center for more information.

NOTE: If you are having any legal problems regarding your visa, job, marriage, school, etc, don’t hesitate to contact the Busan Global Center. You can visit their website at: http://www.bfic.kr to leave them a message. Or you can talk to a consult directly. Their number is 1577-7716.