Moving to the UK from South Korea: Guide 2026
What you need to know
- •Youth Mobility Scheme available (ages 18-35).
- •No TB test required; English language test IS required.
- •Dual citizenship rules are complex — seek advice.
- •Budget KRW 3,000,000 to 8,000,000 for visa costs.
- •Growing Korean community, especially in New Malden (London).
South Korea has a growing community in the UK. Korean citizens are eligible for the Youth Mobility Scheme and can access standard visa routes. This guide covers the options and practical requirements.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
Visa Routes for South Korean Citizens
- Youth Mobility Scheme. Ages 18 to 35, 2 years, no sponsor needed.
- Skilled Worker visa. Requires a licensed sponsor at the minimum salary.
- Student visa. See the student visa guide.
- Family visa. See the spouse visa guide.
- Graduate route. See the Graduate route guide.
Document Requirements
- Valid South Korean passport.
- No TB test required.
- English language test. Required. IELTS widely available across South Korea.
- Police certificate. Criminal record certificate from the Korean National Police Agency. Available online.
Costs in Korean Won
- Youth Mobility visa: £298 (approximately KRW 520,000)
- Skilled Worker visa: £719 to £1,420 (approximately KRW 1,260,000 to 2,630,000)
- IHS (per year): £1,035 (approximately KRW 1,810,000)
See our UK visa fees guide.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
The Korean Community in the UK
The Korean community in the UK numbers approximately 40,000 to 50,000. New Malden in southwest London has the largest Korean community in Europe, with Korean restaurants, shops, churches, and a Korean school. Other concentrations exist in central London and university cities.
After Arrival
- Collect your BRP within 10 days
- Apply for a National Insurance number
- Register with a GP
- Open a UK bank account
- Set up your eVisa
Path to Settlement
After 5 years, apply for ILR. Dual citizenship rules are complex for Korean nationals — seek legal advice before applying for British citizenship.
Next Steps
For the Youth Mobility Scheme, visit the GOV.UK Youth Mobility page. For other routes, see the GOV.UK Skilled Worker visa page.
This guide is general immigration information, not immigration advice under s.82 Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an IAA-authorised adviser or an SRA-regulated immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the authoritative current rules.
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Read guidePreparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.