SOUTH KOREA · Policy & practice
After Korean permanent residence, what does general naturalisation still require?
Permanent residence is one condition for general naturalisation. Residence history, conduct, livelihood and basic qualifications remain subject to assessment; years of holding an investment status are not a substitute.
General naturalisation combines domicile, permanent status and other statutory requirements. The 5-year domicile requirement is not simply an investment or cardholding period.
Korean permanent residence obtained through investment does not automatically confer citizenship. Article 5 of the Nationality Act separately requires a status permitting permanent residence and at least 5 years of continuous domicile in Korea, alongside adulthood, good conduct, livelihood, basic qualifications and public-interest requirements.[1]
Assess residence history and permanent status together
The provision does not simply prescribe another 5-year wait after the permanent residence card is issued.[1] Earlier lawful residence needs to be assessed under nationality rules. Equally, maintaining an investment for 5 years does not by itself establish 5 years of continuous domicile.
The government’s legal guide connects the usual residence calculation to lawful entry, foreigner registration and lawful residence. It also describes circumstances in which periods before and after a departure can be combined.[2] The actual immigration history matters more than the card’s issue date alone.
Investment does not replace the remaining assessment
Applicants must meet conduct and livelihood standards and possess basic qualifications, including Korean language ability and an understanding of Korean customs. National security, public order and welfare are also considered.[1][2]
The naturalisation process includes a comprehensive assessment and interview, with specified exemptions.[2] Investment is not identified here as a blanket exemption. Family members should assess their own age, status and applicable route.
Prepare for a nationality application
The Korea Immigration Service guide confirms the permanent-residence requirement for general naturalisation.[3] Investment families can begin by assembling previous permissions, registration and travel records, then checking assessment and livelihood evidence.
This article addresses general naturalisation. Marriage, ancestry and exceptional-contribution routes have separate rules, as do questions about retaining or relinquishing another nationality. Their special provisions should not be presented as a universal investment benefit.
Official sources
This article provides general information, not individual legal, tax or investment advice. Applicable rules and the competent authority’s assessment govern each case.