Let s live a happy life in Korea. GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea

Transcription

1 Let s live a happy life in Korea GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea

2 Let s live a happy life in Korea! Welcome to Korea. It must be difficult to live in Korea which has different language, custom, and culture compared to your homeland. Although you were not born in Korea, now all of us are one family. The transnational Marriage & Family-Support Center will help married immigrants and their multicultural families lead a stable and happy life in Korea.

3 C O N T E N T S Legal Residency in Korea: Staying in Korea and Nationality/ Naturalization 05 Alien Registration 06 Extension of Stay 07 Application for Permanent Residency (F-5) Status 08 Naturalization(Acquiring Citizenship) Multicultural Families Support 13 The Act to Support Multicultural Families Living in Korea 14 Projects by Transnational Marriage & Family-Support Center 16 Door-to-door Education Service for Multicultural Families 17 Agricultural Education Project Pregnancy / Childbirth / Child Care 19 Pregnancy and Health Care 20 Congenital Anomaly, Immature, or Congenital Dysbolism Infant Medical Expense Aid 22 Childbirth-Care Aide 23 Vaccinations Child Education 25 Korean Education System/Children s Welfare Center 26 Child Care and Kindergarten Subsidies Women and Health 29 National Health Insurance System 30 Medical Allowance System 31 Specialized Home Medical Care Service 32 Free Medical Care Employment and Job Training 35 Employment 36 Job Training 37 Unemployment Insurance Financial Support 39 National Basic Livelihood Security System 40 Self-support Service 41 Emergency Welfare Support 42 Mother-child Welfare Protection of Human Rights 44 Women Migrants Human Rights Center Useful Telephone Numbers for a Convenient Life

4 Legal Residency in Korea: Staying in Korea and Nationality/ Naturalization This is a necessary procedure for your stable and legal residency in Korea Korea is your second homeland where you can plan your bright and happy future. As a married immigrant, you should be qualified for legal residency status in Korea in order to lead a safe and stable life. Entry into Korea Alien Registration Application for Extension of Stay Permission After Two Years Residency in Korea Application to Register as a Permanent Resident Application for Naturalization 04 For more information, please visit Korea Immigration Service website ( If you do not complete the procedure necessary for staying in Korea for a given period, you will be considered as an illegal resident, which can lead to deportation, fines, or other penalties.

5 Alien Registration 1 You are required to register after entry into Korea. If foreigners want to stay in Korea for more than 90 days, they are required to register and then carry their alien registration cards at all times. When within 90 days from the date of your entry to Korea Where at a local immigration office Required Documents passport, application for alien registration, two color photos (3X4cm), spouse s resident registration, spouse s family registration and resident registration, spouse s letter of guarantee (authentication unnecessary), marriage certificate, and fees (10,000 won) Re-issuance of Alien Registration Card you may apply for a re-issuance of your alien registration card within 14 days in case of loss, damage, or to make necessary changes name, sex, date of birth, address, nationality, passport number, issue date, and expiration date. Required Documents: application form, passport, one color photo (3X4cm), alien registration card (in case of loss, written statement of reasons for the application), and fees (10,000 won) GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 05

6 Legal Residency in Korea: Staying in Korea and Nationality/ Naturalization 1Extension of Stay If you want to continue staying in Korea, you are required to apply for an extension of your stay. Married migrants should extend their stay during the two months prior to the expiration date of their sojourn period at the local immigration office. Applying for an extension along with their application for the alien registration will eliminate any inconvenience. When within two months before the expiration date Where local immigration office having the jurisdiction over the area where you live Required documents Application form, passport, alien registration card, copy of spouse s family registration (indicating proof of marriage), copy of spouse s resident registration, spouse s letter of guarantee (authentication unnecessary), marriage certificate, and fees (20,000 won) What do I need to do in this case? If you experience a divorce or separation that is your the Korean spouse s fault, if you raise children born between you and your spouse, or if your spouse has died or disappeared while you were married after the marriage has been registered, you can apply for an extension of your stay with documentary evidence. 06

7 Application for Permanent Residency (F-5) Status If you acquire permanent residency (F-5), your residency in Korea will become more flexible. Those who have lived in Korea for more than two years are eligible to apply for permanent residency (F-5) status. If you acquire permanent residency status, you do not have to extend your stay and you can maintain your original nationality. In addition, if you are leaving Korea for less than one year, you will not require a re-entry permit. 1 When after more than two-year stay in Korea Where local immigration office having the jurisdiction over the area where you live Required Documents application form (available at immigration offices), passport and alien registration card, copies of your spouse s family register (indicating proof of marriage) and resident registration, documents related to property relations (Select one from among the following three choices) - Certificate of (future) employment of applicant or applicant s spouse - Certificate of bank balance exceeding 30 million won under the name of the applicant or applicant s family - Copy of real estate registration or copy of a house lease contact Letter that guarantees spouse s identification (authentication unnecessary), fees (50,000 won) What do I need to do in this case? If you experience a divorce or a separation that is your Korean spouse s fault, if you raise Korean underage children, or support your Korean parents or family, or if your spouse has died or disappeared while you were married, you can apply for permanent residency (F-5) status with documentary evidence. Those who lose spousal rights because they are not able to return according to the terms of their re-entry permit must reapply for residency (F-2-1) status at an official embassy of Korea. They may then apply for permanent residency (F-5) status after a two-year residency in Korea. Foreigners that have violated the Immigration Control Law cannot apply for permanent residency (F-5) status within three years. If permanent residency (F-5) status holders commit an illegal act, they may lose permanent residency. GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 07

8 Legal Residency in Korea: Staying in Korea and Nationality/ Naturalization 1Naturalization(Acquiring Citizenship) Do you want to acquire Korean citizenship? Married immigrants who have resided in Korea for more than two years are eligible for simplified naturalization. In order to acquire Korean nationality, applicants of naturalization or their family members, such as spouses, must be employed or own a certain amount of property. In addition, applicants must be able to communicate in Korean and have a knowledge and understanding of Korean tradition and culture. Eligibility for Acquisition of Nationality - Individuals who have resided in Korea for more than two years after entering Korea and registering as an alien, while they have been married to Korean spouses and stayed legally married - Individuals who have been married to Korean spouses for more than three years and have stayed in Korea for more than a year in total - Married immigrant women whose Korean spouses are deceased or missing, who have divorced or separated due to the fault of the Korean spouse, or who are raising underage children born with their Korean spouses Required Documents Naturalization approval application with one color photo (4X5cm) attached, a copy of the first page of the application, a copy of the passport of the applicant, a written statement of naturalization, copies of the Korean spouse s family registration (indicating proof of marriage) and resident registration, a letter of guarantee and a copy of this, documents establishing property relations, select one from among the following documents to prove that you or your family is financially independent: - Certificate of bank balance exceeding 30 million won under the name of the applicant or applicant s family member - Copy of real estate registration or a house lease contract of property worth more than 30 million won - Certificate of employment (attached to a copy business operator registration)certificate of (future) employment for the applicant or the applicant s spouse Fees (100,000 won) [Additional Required Documents] - In case of divorce, separation, or in the case of a deceased or missing Korean spouse: a written statement of what caused the end of the marriage, the court s written pronouncement that the spouse is missing, a death certificate, a written explanation of why you must stay in Korea, confirmation statement written by an agent of a public Women s Affairs Association (for information, visit website - In case you are raising underage children born with a Korean spouse: the child s family registration, documents proving that you are raising children or you are the only potential 08

9 person to raise the children, written pronouncement of the court, a written confirmation by a relative of your Korean spouse, or a written confirmation from the head of your neighborhood association 1 Where Nationality department at a local immigration office having the jurisdiction over where you live When you apply for permission for naturalization, you must be accompanied by your Korean spouse, and you must prove that you and your Korean spouse are maintaining a true marriage. If your Korean spouse cannot accompany you, you must bring his or her identification card. Applicants must provide proof of a legitimate reason for their Korean spouse s absence. Nationality Department of Korea Immigration Office Immigration Office Seoul Busan Incheon Suwon Address Telephone Sinjeong 6 Yangcheon-gu Seoul ~4 Chungjangno 14 Jung-gu Busan Unseo-dong Jung-gu Incheon Irwolcho-dong 2-gil Gwonseon-gu Suwon-si Jurisdictional District Seoul and Gyeonggi (Anyang, Gwacheon, Seongnam, Hanam, and Gwangmyeong) Busan and Gyeongsangnam-do (Gimhae, Yangsan, and Milyang) Incheon and Gyeonggi (Ansan, Bucheon, Siheung, and Gimpo) Gyeonggi (Gunpo, Uiwang, Suwon, Youngjin, Osan, Icheon, Anseong, Hwaseong, Gwangju, Yangpyeong, and Yeoju) Jeju Imhang-ro 277 Jeju-si / Jeju Daegu 117 Ansimno Dong-gu Daegu-si Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do Daejeon 150 Mokdong-gil Jung-gu Daejeon-si ~4 Daejeon and Chungcheongnam-do Yeosu Uijeongbu Gwangju Masan Jeonju Chuncheon Cheongju 267 Museono Yeosu-si Jeollanam-do East wing of Seoyoung building 172 Sinheungno Uijeongbu-si Hwajeongno Seo-gu Gwangju-si Haeano Masan-si Gyeongsangnam-do ~5 211 Hoseong-ro Deokjin-gu Jeongju-si Gongji-ro Chungcheon-si ~3 23 Saeteo 1-gil Heungdeok-gu Cheongju-si ~1 Jeollanam-do (Yeosu, Suncheon, and Gwangyang) Gyeonggi (Uijeongbu, Dongducheon, Guri, Goyang, Namyangju, Paju, Yangju, Yeoncheon, Pocheon, and Gapyeong) Gwangju and Jeollanam-do (excluding Yeosu, Suncheon, and Gwangyang) Gyeongsangnam-do (excluding Gimhae, Yangsan, and Milyang) Jeollabuk-do Gangwon Chungcheongbuk-do GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 09

10 1 Legal Residency in Korea: Staying in Korea and Nationality/ Naturalization Procedure of Korean Nationality Acquisition and Examination Do After a two-year residency in Korea Application for naturalization Interview Naturalization Permission Register Name in Family Registration Confirmation of Renunciation of Foreign Nationality Application for Resident Registration Card Issuance Return Alien Registration Card Qualification Examination and Interview - The entire procedure from initial application to being granted nationalization permission requires approximately one year at a minimum. - The Ministry of Justice will send interviewees interview schedules two to four weeks prior to their interview date. Thus, those who move should report this change to their local immigration office that has jurisdiction over their new place of residence. - Foreign spouses are exempt from taking the written test and only need to be interviewed; interviews will be graded based on the applicants ability to communicate in Korea and other basic qualifications as a Korean citizen. - If applicants fail on the first interview, they will be given two more chances to pass the interview. Naturalization Permission - After naturalization permission is granted from the Minister of Justice, applicants must register their name in the family registration records, confirm renunciation of their foreign nationality, apply for a resident registration card and return their alien registration card. Registration of the Name in the Family Registration Record - You will be charged a penalty fee if you do not register your name in your family registration record within a month of receiving notification of your permission of naturalization. You must report your naturalization at a family registration government office (city, district, or town office). - You must take your alien registration card and notification of your permission of naturalization with you. Confirmation of Renunciation of Foreign Nationality - Within six months of receiving notification of permission of naturalization, you must notify the embassy of your native country of your renunciation of your original nationality and you must submit your foreign nationality renunciation certificate to your local immigration office in person. You will then be issued a written confirmation of your renunciation of your foreign nationality. 10

11 - You may automatically lose your Korean nationality if you do not receive a foreign nationality renunciation certificate from the embassy within six months - If you cannot submit a foreign nationality renunciation certificate in time due to immigration laws in your native country or because an embassy of your native country does not exist in Korea, you may submit a written pledge of foreign nationality renunciation. You will be issued a written confirmation of foreign nationality renunciation confirmation at a local immigration office and may apply for issuance of a resident registration card. - You must extend your sojourn period before you acquire Korean nationality and renounce your foreign nationality. 1 Application for the Issuance of a Resident Registration Card - You must take your notification of your permission of naturalization, a copy of your family registration, and written confirmation of your foreign nationality renunciation to the eup, myeon, dong or local town office and to apply for issuance of a resident registration card. Return Alien Registration Card - The alien registration card should be returned within 14 days of receiving a resident registration card to the local immigration office where you underwent alien registration. Be sure to take your notification of your permission of naturalization, a copy of your family registration, your resident registration card, and your alien registration card What do I need to do in this case? In the event of that you lost your Korean nationality because you failed to renounce your original nationality within six months, it is possible to re-acquire Korean nationality. You will need to obtain a foreign nationality renunciation certificate at the embassy of your native country and submit it to the Nationality division at your local immigration office within a year of losing your Korean nationality. (Required documents: statement of nationality acquisition, copy of notification of permission of naturalization, confirmation of renunciation of foreign nationality, documents proving these facts and the date of foreign nationality renunciation) After you are granted naturalization permission, you may write your foreign name phonetically in Korean and use it as your name when your register your name on your family registration. If you want to adopt a new Korean name, you must obtain a copy of the permission document issued by the domestic relations court at your Korean spouse s domicile or at your initial resident registration. You must submit the copy of this permission to your local town, myeon, or ward office within one month from issuance. GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 11

12 Multicultural Families Support Put a smile on your face and have hope of a successful life in Korea 2Welcome to Korea. We will help you plan a bright future and have hope for a successful life in Korea 12

13 The Act to Support Multicultural Families Living in Korea The Act to Support Multicultural Families Living in Korea 2 Helps Multicultural Families The Act to Support Multicultural Families Living in Korea designed to help multicultural families in Korea goes into effect on September 22, The policies and projects based on this act were established in an effort to support multicultural families 1. We Help People Understand More about Multicultural Families The government and local autonomous agencies provide education and hold campaigns to encourage cultural diversity. 2. We Provide Information and Education for Living in Korea The government and local autonomous agencies provide married immigrants with the basic information necessary for living in Korea, as well as job training courses and education for social adaptation. 3. We Provide Education for Equal Family Relationship The government and local autonomous agencies provide family counseling and family life education to ensure a fair and equitable family relationship based on gender equality. 4. We Protect and Support Victims of Domestic Violence The government and local autonomous agencies will provide interpretation services, legal counseling, and administrative support to protect a foreign spouse from domestic violence. 5. We Help Mothers before and after Childbirth The government and local autonomous agencies will provide mothers with necessary services, including interpretation for all services, before and after childbirth. 6. We Help Educate Children in Multicultural Families The government and local autonomous agencies will instigate educational measures to help children of multicultural families rapidly adapt to school life. 7. We Provide Multilingual Service for Immigrants The government and local autonomous agencies will provide services in various languages. 8. Join the Transnational Marriage and Family Support Center! The Transnational Marriage & Family Support Center has 80 branch centers around the nation that provide a variety of programs for multicultural families. GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 13

14 Multicultural Families Support Custom-designed Services by the Transnational Marriage & Family Support Center 2 The Transnational Marriage & Family Support Center supports multicultural families and helps them lead stable and harmonious lives in Korea. The Transnational Marriage & Family Support Center provides married immigrants with various services, including education, counseling, and cultural programs for a stable settlement and for harmonious family relationships. Education Counseling Support for Multicultural Families Support for Child Care Education and PR for Multiculturalism Strengthening Employment Korean language education at elementary, lower-intermediate, upperintermediate, and advanced levels Family education for immigrants, couples, parents-in-laws, children, and future couples Cultural comprehension education about Korean culture, spouses countries, livelihood information, and cultural shock Computer courses for Information technology education Job training education, such as acquiring a driver s license, cosmetology, and agriculture education Individual counseling concerning the residence in Korea, financial problems, human rights, domestic violence, and sexual abuse Family life counseling and couple counseling service Support gatherings by home countries for multicultural families Multicultural Family Camp Arrangement of married immigrant women and mentors Korean Cultural Events Childbirth education, childbirth, child care, and housework aide Babysitter, language development examination, and psychology treatment Support for adapting to school life, and after-school education programs Multicultural education Education and PR for multicultural society, multicultural festivals, and campaigns Training multicultural instructors, native speakers, translators / interpreters, and professional counselors The programs of the Transnational Marriage & Family-Support Center are provided for free. The programs may vary from center to center. Please ask for information in advance. For information, call nationwide or visit the Transnational Marriage & Family-Support Center website www. tmfc.familynet.or.kr 14

15 Korean Language Education - Off-line Class Education: Education programs by language and level - Door-to-door Education: Door-to-door services by the Transnational Marriage & Family Support Center - On-line Education: Provided by Korea Digital University Comprehensive Livelihood Information - Magazine Rainbow+: Quarterly publication of livelihood and policy information in English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Cambodian as well as Korean Crisis Intervention and Family Education - Migrant Women s Emergency Call Center protects domestic violence victims and provides counseling as well as a private place to rest. In addition they are offered access to legal rescue institutions and education for husbands. - Family education to improve family relationships between married immigrants and their spouses, parents-in-law, relatives, and children Pregnancy and Childbirth Support - Pregnancy and childbirth supporting service for expecting mothers are offered through visits to them approximately 1-2 months before childbirth. Child Care Support - Door-to-door services for child care and language development Education for Strengthening Employment Capability - Agricultural education for married immigrants in rural areas - Information technology education including computers and internet application skills - Training multicultural teachers for multicultural education in regional nurseries and elementary schools - Training native speakers as assistant teachers by associating with local education facilities - Researching and developing job opportunities for married immigrants e.g., Translators, Interpreters Bringing Up Multicultural Society Coordination Leaders - Support for married immigrant support gatherings and arrangement of mentors for new immigrants - Operation of a monitoring group consisting of married immigrants and spouses On-line community of Monitoring Group for multicultural families: tmfcenter Strengthening education and PR to improve Koreans understanding of multiculturalism - Strengthening education and PR to improve Koreans understanding of a multicultural society - Education and multicultural festivals for multicultural families along with general families GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 2 15

16 Multicultural Families Support Door-to-door Education Service for Multicultural Families 2 When you are in need, you can ask for help with one call. Married immigrants and their families who are busy with child care or who are geographically isolated as well as those who cannot participate in educational programs at regional centers can be provided with custom-designed services developed by a special lecturers. Door-to-door Korean Language Education Service The Transnational Marriage & Family-Support Center provides multicultural families who have a language barrier with door-to-door Korean language education service by sending a Korean language teacher. - Custom-designed Korean language education by level - Counseling of the relationships between a couple or members of a family - Counseling and handling difficulties concerning adaptation to Korean society, understanding multiculturalism, and child care and family matters - Providing employment and livelihood information, including information on government agencies - Providing services associated with local social welfare facilities, public health centers, and public institutions Door-to-door Child Care Service The Transnational Marriage & Family-Support Center provides education, counseling, and information concerning childcare for married immigrants who nurture children under the age of 12. In addition, expecting mothers are provided with short-term programs concerning childbirth preparation and childcare. - Counseling and handling difficulties related to child care and relationships between a couple, parent and child, and relatives - Providing information concerning birth control, pregnancy, childbirth, and childcare - Collaboration between government agencies for the prevention, solution, and follow-up measures related to multicultural family issues - Providing necessary information related to culture and life, nutrition, health, education, and government agencies - Parenting education for children s study and school life - Korean culture, lifestyle education and multicultural education 16 When you need door-to-door services, call a nationwide hotline number: Door-to-door service is free. When you need help, make a call the Transnational Marriage & Family-Support Center ( ). There is no need to enter an area code. Your call will be connected to the nearest relevant agency.

17 Agricultural Education Project 2 Agricultural Education represents the Seeds of Hope Agricultural education that serves to support the rural life of married immigrants was started in June of This project for married immigrants who live in rural areas in Korea provides an opportunity to promote farm households through family education. Eligible Subjects Married immigrants and their spouses who can speak Korean and live in the location of the Transnational Marriage & Family-Support Center or the local autonomous agency running door-to-door services are eligible. Any members from farm households who want personal interactions are also welcome. How to learn The Agricultural Education is an education project consisting of more than 102 hours. It includes off-line class education, small-group education, experiential education, family education, and door-to-door education. General Project The agricultural policy for multicultural families, Korean farm culture, farmers health, information technology education for agriculture, farm product processing, safety education for farming machinery, family education, and support gatherings / mentoring group activities in rural areas Region Specialized Project Region Specialized Project Ganghwa Garden products Iksan Practical horticulture, Job training for barbola art deco Ulsan Processed agricultural products Jangsu Natural dyed clothing Wonju Organic farming Yeosu Naturally dyed Korean traditional hat Chuncheon Floriculture Jangseong Jangseong fusion traditional Korean snack Okcheon Fermented foods made of edible wild plants for health Miryang Natural, healthy and organic snack Boeun Jujube snack, Jujube tea, Jujube soap Asan Organic farming, Natural soap Namwon Education of distribution management and marketing, Jeonnam Nobitteok, Folk liquor Gimje Grain-based cosmetics and daily necessaries For more information call the Transnational Marriage & Family-Support Center nationwide GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 17

18 Pregnancy / Childbirth / Childcare Congratulations and Welcome to Motherhood! 3Becoming a mother is one of the most valuable experiences of a woman. Nothing can be negligent from pregnancy to childbirth. 18

19 Pregnancy and Health Care It is essential that pregnant women take good care of their health Pregnant women should visit a gynecologist or a public health center to receive appropriate healthcare for the wellbeing of their child and of themselves. They should make a visit to a hospital once a month during their first to seventh months of pregnancy, every two weeks during the eighth and ninth months, and once a week during the tenth. Public health centers offer several types of services for free. How can I check whether I am pregnant? - Hormone test: you can obtain pregnancy test kits at your nearest pharmacy. You can determine if you are pregnant through a urine test that uses a test stick. You can also simply dip the test stick into your urine. (You should consult with your pharmacist.) In general, it is possible to determine whether you are pregnant two weeks after having sexual intercourse. For results that are more accurate, you can go to a medical center and have your blood tested. - Ultrasound test: you can determine whether you are pregnant 2~2.5 weeks after sexual intercourse through an ultrasound test. After four weeks, you can receive a highly accurate diagnosis that shows the baby s heartbeat. Tests for Pregnant Mothers Include the Following 3 Blood test Normal blood test Blood-type test Syphilis Examination Hepatitis examination Urinalysis Ultrasound test Tests for anemia, AIDS, and German measles checking the number and size of the hemoglobin, red blood cells and leukocytes in the blood Test for ABO blood types and RH factors Test for syphilis, which can cause fetal death or miscarriage Test for hepatitis If the mother has hepatitis, chances are high that the baby will have it as well. Test for ketosis or diabetes by testing for sugar and proteins and tests for urinary tract infection Examination of the growth development, location, and size of the fetus and a test for deformities - done by looking into the uterus What precautions must be taken to give birth to a healthy baby? - A healthy child is born to a healthy mother. If you are sick, consult a doctor and obtain treatment. - Consult a doctor before taking medication. - Avoid alcohol and smoking - Consume sufficient calories, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. If you eat regularly, it will not be necessary to take additional nutrients. However, it is necessary to take iron supplements from the fifth month of pregnancy. - Avoid strenuous activities. You should not do hazardous activities such as climbing to high altitudes or doing heavy labor. - Receive regular medical examinations. You must receive prenatal care during your pregnancy through medical institutions. By doing so, you can detect and eliminate dangerous factors that can affect you and your child. GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 19

20 Pregnancy / Childbirth / Childcare What kinds of help can pregnant women receive from public health centers? 3 When married immigrant women are pregnant, they can obtain free medical care from a public health center. They should take their alien registration card with them. Free prenatal examination early pregnancy examination, urinalysis, and blood tests Childbirth preparatory classes and education classes on breastfeeding exercises for pregnant women; childbirth preparation; baby massaging; and a book, CD and video rental service related to pregnancy, prenatal care, and childbirth Iron pills and folic acid pills Iron and folic acid pills are given to pregnant women who are at least five months pregnant. Supplementary nutrient care aid for pregnant women and infants Pregnant low-income married immigrant women and babies with poor nutrition can receive necessary supplements. Eligible Subjects Aid Information How to Apply Pregnant women, women up to 5 months after childbirth, women who are at the nursing stage (up to 12 months), all of whom belong to a family with an income of less than 200% of the minimum cost of living, and infants. Supplementary nutrient packages (6 types) are given for free Rice, potatoes, eggs, carrots, milk, black beans, seaweed, laver, canned tuna, and mandarins given depending on the applicant s nutrition. Free nutrition education Personal counseling, group education, and home visits at least once a month (Free nutrition education is available at night or on weekends) Reception office: Public health centers Required documents - Certificate of residence or alien registration card, and copy of health insurance card - Health insurance fee receipt, national basic livelihood recipient verification, or medical aid recipient verification Free congenital dysbolism examination - Congenital dysbolism is a disease that is caused by a lack of a certain type of enzyme. It causes milk and food metabolites to provoke toxic activity in the brain or body and can bring about mental retardation or physical deformities. This disease can be prevented if found early and treated. - Public health centers provide free examinations involving the extraction of a drop of blood from the baby s heel. Through this examination, they can determine if the baby has one of six types of congenital dysbolism. These types are termed phenylketonuria, 20

21 hyperthyroidism, homocystinuria maple syrup urine disease, galactosemia, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. - If the baby is found to have the disease then he or she can receive medical aid and special powdered milk expenses according to the parents income. Eligible Subjects Aid Information How to Apply All newborn babies can be examined during the year of their birth. Newborn babies from a family of urban laborers with a monthly income of less than 200% of average monthly income can receive medical aid and aid for expenses related to special powdered milk If the baby is proven to have congenital dysbolism after the second examination, expenses for an examination are given Babies with a rare intractable disease that require special powdered milk, such as Crohn s disease or short bowel syndrome, can receive financial aid. Reception office: Public health centers Required Documents: medical certificate (if applying for the first time or if changes need to be made), a receipt (expenses for the purchase of special powdered milk, medical expenses, and pharmaceutical expenses), a copy of a bankbook for the deposit (only if applying for the first time), copy of a health insurance card (if a double-income family, then attach copies for both the husband and wife), individual health insurance bill receipt and payment confirmation form (dual-income families need to turn in copies of both health insurance cards and receipts) 3 Immature infant, congenital anomaly infant medical expense aid Immature infant refers to babies born under 2.5 kg or born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Congenital anomaly infant refers to newborn babies who must undergo emergency surgery or treatment due to esophageal atresia, intestinal atresia, anorectal malformation, or congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Eligible Subjects Aid Information How to Apply Urban laborer families with a monthly income lower than 130% of the national average monthly income. (Those with 2500cc displacement cars or above with an appraised value of over thirty million won or those who pay composite real estate taxes are excluded.) Aid can be given regardless of income if the third child or above is an immature infant or is an infant with a congenital anomaly. Immature Infant: Aid can vary (five million won ~ ten million won) depending on the weight at birth; check with a public health center. Congenital anomaly infant: All expenses are paid if medical expenses are below one million won and 80% of expenses are paid if medical expenses exceed one million won. Maximum aid per person is five million won. Reception office: Public health centers Application period: within 30 days after discharge from hospital Required Documents: medical aid application form, consultation fee specifications, copy of a bankbook for the deposit, a copy of the birth certificate, medical certificate with the name of the disease (for infants with congenital anomalies), copy of a health insurance card (dual-income families need to turn in copies of both health insurance cards), individual health insurance bill receipt and payment confirmation form (dualincome families need to turn in copies of both health insurance cards and receipts) For more information, visit Public Health Center website: GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 21

22 Pregnancy / Childbirth / Childcare Childbirth Aide We help you with postpartum care. Aide support is a program that assigns a childbirth aide to visit those who need help. Any lowincome class married immigrant women can obtain help from aides after childbirth for free. 3 Aide support is a program that assigns a childbirth aide to visit those who need help. Any low-income class married immigrant women can obtain help from aides after childbirth for free. Eligible Subjects Aide Information How to Apply Families with monthly income lower than 50% of national average monthly income Recipients of National Basic Livelihood Security System (NBLSS) are excluded. Assisting in postpartum exercises and providing necessary services, including cleaning, laundry, and care of the baby Period: two weeks (12 days), for twins (18 days) Reception office: Public health centers Application period: within 30 days before your due date and up to 20 days after childbirth Required Documents: application form, copy of a health insurance card (dualincome families need to turn in copies of both health insurance cards), copy of the health insurance payment receipt or copy of a health insurance bill, copy of the medical certificate (before childbirth) or birth certificate (after childbirth) Accredited Monthly Average Income (in units of one thousand won) Number of Family Members More than 8 national average monthly income 2,277 3,229 3,705 3,931 4,055 4,180 4,305 monthly income lower than 50% of national average monthly income 1,139 1,615 1,853 1,966 2,028 2,090 2,153 22

23 Vaccinations Take care of your baby s health Vaccination is a way of protecting your baby from communicable diseases through an injection of a weak, harmless strain of a communicable disease. Types of Vaccination, Vaccinations Dates, and Frequency National mandatory vaccinations Additional vaccinations Target communicable disease Vaccine (* Types of Vaccination, Vaccinations Dates, and Frequency) Vaccination frequency Right Time for Vaccination Tuberculosis BCG Once Within 4 months from birth (once) Hepatitis B HepB Three times months (three times) Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis DTaP 4 times, one additional time months (3 times) Additional: months, 4-6 years old Td one additional time Additional: 11~12 years old Polio IPV 3 times, one additional time Measles, German measles, and epidemic mumps MMR Once, one additional time Japanese encephalitis JEV Three times, two additional times months (3 times) Additional: 4-6 years old 12~15 months (once) Additional: 4~6 years old 12~24 months (twice), third vaccination 12 months later Additional: 6, 12 years old Chicken pox Var Once 12~15 months (once) Influenza Babies assigned Flu Twice for children of Older than 6 months priority for vaccines 6 months to 9 years, once every year after Typhoid fever Limited to high-risk babies Epidemic hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome Oral 3~4 times Older than 6 months Injection Once, one additional time Older than 2 years old 3 times 0 month Hemophilus influenza B Hib 4 times months 12~15 months Hepatitis A HepA Once, one additional 1~16 years old time (6~12 months after first) Pneumonia due to streptococcus pneumonia PCV 1~4 times months Additional 12~15 months 3 GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 23

24 Child Education 4How can you bring up a child successfully in Korea? with your children s education. When it comes to raising children, there is nothing more important than the mother s role, because the mother spends more time with the child and wields more influence on the child s growth than any other family member. Having knowledge of the Korean education system and educational services will help you 24

25 Korean Education System Knowledge is Power The Korean educational facilities include kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, high school, and college or university. Since elementary and middle school education are compulsory, parents who do not send their children to elementary or middle schools may be punished by law. Child Care Facilities look after and educate children age five or younger. Kindergarten is for children between three and five years of age. Elementary School is a six-year course. A child of age six can enter an elementary school. Middle School is a three-year course. High School is a three-year course. High schools are divided into general high schools, vocational high schools, science high schools, and high schools with specific programs. Advanced Education includes 4 years of general college or university, industrial university, teachers colleges, Korean National Open University, cyber colleges, two or three-year of specified colleges, and polytechnic colleges. Children s Welfare Center Children s Welfare Centers provide welfare and education for children. These centers are available for children whose parents are unable to care for them for financial problems or other reasons. They provide an environment similar to the children s home and helps them adjust to everyday life as well as school. Eligible subjects children of the low-income class are a priority How to apply applications are available at your nearest Children s Welfare Center Operating hours centers open more than five days a week and eight or more hours a day. Operating house are flexible based on district and center conditions. Children s Welfare Center Programs 4 Protection Program Education Program Welfare Program Community-Linked Program Cultural Program Protection of neglected children in the local community, guidance in life and health, and meal service Study guidance, homework assistance, art, music, and physical education Counseling, parental education, family counseling, and relationship support Programs connecting human and material resources in the local community Cultural experience, field trips, camping trips, and community activities Corporation of National Children s Welfare Center Study Group Homepage : Local Child Care & Information Center Homepage : GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 25

26 Child Education Child Care and Kindergarten Subsidies We subsidize your children s education costs Children under age five may attend day-care centers or kindergartens before entering elementary school. Parents whose children attend day-care centers or kindergartens may receive an education subsidy depending on their total income. 4 Eligible Subjects children under age five who attend a child care center or kindergarten and who are from a family whose accredited monthly income is below the average monthly income of urban workers households. (Less than 100% of 2008 accredited monthly average income of urban workers households with four family members: 3,980,000 won per month) Children of married immigrant women may be equally supported if they have Korean nationality. Disabled children may be provided the full amount of the child care allowance, regardless of the parents total income. Introduction and enforcement of basic education subsidy system The basic education subsidy system has been established in order to help reduce parents burden of education expenses as well as to improve the quality of education in private child-care facilities, which have poor conditions compared to national/public facilities. Low income families benefit from the education subsidy depending on family conditions Beneficiaries of the education subsidy have been gradually extended to children 3-5 years of age from low income families. This subsidy may vary depending on family conditions. Free child care and education will be extended to preschool children. From the year 2009, free child care and education will be available for children less than 5 years of age to families of urban laborers with a monthly income less than 130% of the average monthly income 26

27 An additional education subsidy will be provided to low income families with more than two children. If more than two children from a family of urban laborers with a monthly income less than 130% of the average monthly income attend child-care facilities or kindergartens, the second child and those younger will be provided an additional 50% of the education expenses from the year Application Process Parents Submit required documents Apply Confirmed Town, parents dong office Childcare facilities or kindergartens Applicants who are of a low-income class (or recipients of the National Basic Livelihood System) should submit an application form and required documents to child care facilities or kindergartens. (No additional investigation for income or property will be held.) How to apply parents or other guardians must submit the application form and documentary evidence to their local city, county, or district office or town, myeon, or dong office. Required Documents documentary evidence related to employment and property 4 Basic education subsidy system is extended to children 0 to 2 years of age. - If your children attend private child-care facilities, you will pay the same education expenses as parents whose children attend national/public facilities. 08 Education expenses of national/public child-care facilities: age 0 372,000 won, age 1 327,000 won, age 2 270,000 won - Infants of private child-care facilities are provided basic education subsides Basic education subsidy ( 08): age 0 340,000 won, age 1 164,000 won, age 2 109,000 won Basic education subsidy system for children 3 to 5 years of age is examined - Private child-care facilities may receive education subsidies depending on the number of students. - The basic education subsidy should be spent according to the specifications - The basic education subsidy should be spent on lowering the parent s financial burden and raising teachers pay - Evaluation and certification are required. The pilot-run areas of the basic education subsidy system: Seo-gu Daejeon, Pyeongtaek Gyeonggi-do, and Haenam Jeollanam-do - When the preschool children s subsidy is fully applied, we plan to exam partial allowance of priceregulated facilities. GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 27

28 Women and Health 5Put a smile on your face and have hope of a successful life in Korea Everybody wants to live a healthy life. However, everyone inevitably becomes sick at some time. When people in Korea are sick and they are in need of medical treatment, they have easy access to medical service thanks to the National Health Insurance System. In addition, the medical allowance system and specialized home medical care service can help you when you face a medical emergency. 28

29 National Health Insurance System You can take advantage of medical treatment when you are in need All Korean citizens are required to be insured under the National Health Insurance System. Recipients of the National Health Insurance can use medical institutions at a small fee when they have health problems or give birth to a child. They are also provided with a physical examination regularly. Recipients can be supported by the National Health Insurance by paying a monthly fee. Benefits - Recipients will be provided with medical treatment at hospitals, clinics, and oriental medicine clinics at a moderate price. A small fee will be charged for medical examinations and treatment. - Recipients will be provided with a medical checkup - Recipients will be provided financial support for funerals upon their deaths. - Disabled recipients will be provided part of the insurance payment for purchase of assistive devices How to get insured - Married immigrants that do not have Korean citizenship can be insured by the National 5 Health Insurance System after having registered as an alien. Recipients of medical assistance through the National Basic Livelihood Security System do not have to be insured under National Health Insurance. - If your husband is employed and insured by the National Health Insurance program, you can apply by registering as a dependent to your husband. - When married immigrants are employed by a company, they are automatically insured by the National Health Insurance system. - In the case where both husband and wife are unemployed, an application form should be submitted along with an alien registration card at the nearest local office of the National Health Insurance Corporation. Insurance Fees - Your insurance fees are directly proportional to your income. - If you are registered for National Health Insurance by a company, you and your employer are required to respectively pay half of the insurance fees. This means that you pay 5.08% of your monthly income. - If you register for National Health Insurance at a local office of the National Health Insurance Corporation, your insurance fees are determined according to your income, property, and level of living. For more information, call the National Health Insurance Corporation or a local office. ( ) National Health Insurance Corporation homepage Counseling for foreigners is available. ( , 9338, 9835) GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 29

30 Women and Health Medical Allowance System The government provides medical expenses for those who have financial problems The Medical Allowance System provides financial support for those who have difficulty paying for medical treatment. Who is eligible? Recipients of the National Basic Livelihood Security System are eligible as recipients of a medical allowance. If you are raising a child with Korean nationality, you are also eligible for a medical allowance. 5 Recipients and benefits - Medicaid benefits may vary for medical examinations, checkups, medicine, surgical operations, or hospitalization. - Recipients of Medicaid benefits are divided into two categories: primary and secondary. There is a difference in your allotment depending on the category to which you belong. Section Primary Recipients Secondary Recipients Required standards Hospitalization Outpatient Medical Centers Recipients of the National Basic Livelihood Security System Recipients of second priority (patients suffering from rare intractable diseases) Free Primary institution: 1,000 won Second institution: 15,000 won Tertiary institution: 2,000 won CT MRI PET: (5% of the medical allowance) * No copayment from patients for patients with rare intractable diseases, pregnant women, and children under age 18 Secondary recipients refer to family members of primary recipients among recipients of the National Basic Livelihood Security System. Recipient of second priority (Chronic patients, children under age 18) 15% of medical allowance (In the case of a patient of an advanced disease or cancer, 10% of medical allowance) Public Health Centers : Free Primary institution: 1,000 won Second and tertiary institution: 15% of the medical allowance (Chronic patients in second institution: 1,000 won) Pharmacies 500 won per prescription 500 won per prescription Health and Welfare Call Center ( 129) Consult with an agent at the Social Welfare Division at your nearest town, myeon, or dong office. 30

31 Specialized Home Medical Care Service We will provide a visiting medical service Public health centers offer home medical care. A staff member from a local public health center visits your house and provides medical treatment or connects you with a suitable medical institution. Beneficiary - Local residents are appointed as beneficiaries according to the degree of their economic hardship. - Primary recipients are the elderly supported by the National Basic Livelihood Security System. Tertiary recipients are families of married immigrant women. - Qualifications differ in each region. Contact the Visiting Health Care Division of a local public health center to identify whether you qualify as a recipient. Related Services - Health management for those who have suffered a stroke and those suffering from high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, dementia, or mental diseases - Family health management in relation to chronic diseases, disabilities, and accidents - Health management for pregnant women and health development guidance for infants - Health education and consultation - Regular visiting medical service - Healthcare education for healthy families - Integrated service of health care and welfare How to apply - Apply as a beneficiary at the Visiting Health Care Division of a local public health center. - A staff member will assess the applicant s health problem and determine whether the applicant needs to visit a medical care service. Health and Welfare Call Center ( 129) Consult with an agent at the Social Welfare Division at your nearest town, myeon, or dong office. 5 GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 31

32 Women and Health Free Medical Care We provide free medical services to those in need of financial support Free Medical Care Service provides financial support for hospitalization and surgery for married immigrant women and their children who are not insured by the National Health Insurance nor provided with a medical allowance. Where National medical centers, local medical centers, Red Cross hospitals, and other medical institutions accredited by a mayor or provincial governor 5 How to use - Married immigrant women who do not have Korean citizenship may apply at local medical centers, the Red Cross Hospitals, national medical centers, and medical institutions accredited by a mayor or provincial governor - Submit required documents including passport (or alien registration card) and a certified copy of family register - Female victims of domestic violence or sexual abuse may be provided with shelter - Married immigrant women that have obtained Korean citizenship and recipients of National Health Insurance or Medical Allowance are not eligible for Free Medical Care Service. However, victims verified by authorized organizations to have left their home to take shelter or to be in a difficult situation whereby it is difficult to qualify as a recipient of National Health Insurance may be eligible as a recipient of Free Medical Care Service. Amount of subsidy - Provided all medical expenses up to 5,000,000 won - When medical expenses exceed 5,000,000 won, recipients can be provided an additional 5,000,000 won upon submitting a statement explaining the reason for the higher expense. - When medical expenses exceed 10,000,000 won, recipients will be provided 80% of the exceeded amount. Medical allowance may differ depending on regions. Consult with an agent at your local medical center, Red Cross Hospitals, national medical centers, or authorized medical institutions. 32

33 National and local medical centers Region Medical Center Telephone Region Medical Center Telephone Seoul National Medical Center 02) Seoul Medical Center 02) Seoul Red Cross Hospital 02) Global Civic Sharing Migrant Workers Medical Center 02) Dongbu Hospital 02) Incheon Incheon Medical Center 032) Incheon Red Cross Hospital 032) Incheon Christian Hospital 032) Incheon Medical Foundation Hallym Hospital 032) Suwon Medical Center 031) Uijeongbu Medical Center 031) Anseong Medical Center 031) Icheon Medical Center 031) Geoumchon Medical Center 031) Pocheon Medical Center 031) Catholic University Daejeon St. Mary s Hospital 042) Daejeon Sun Hospital 042) Workers Accident Medical Corporation Daejeon Central Hospital 042) Chungnam National University Hospital 042) Eulju University Hospital 042) Cheongju Medical Center 043) Chungju Medical Center 043) Hankook Medical Center 043) Gwangju Christian Hospital 062) Chonnam National University Hospital 062) Chosun University Hospital 062) Daegu Daegu Medical Center 053) Daegu Red Cross Hospital 053) Gyeonggi Gangwon Daejeon Chungnam Chungbuk Jeonbuk Gwangju Jeonnam Gyeongbuk Busan Busan Medical Center 051) Gyeongnam Jeju Jeju Medical Center 064) Seogwipo Medical Center 064) Wonju Medical Center 033) Gangneung Medical Center 033) Sokcho Medical Center 033) Yeongwol Medical Center 033) Samcheok Medical Center 033) Cheonan Medical Center 041) Gongju Medical Center 041) Hongseong Medical Center 041) Seosan Medical Center 041) Ewha Women s Hospital 041) Gunsan Medical Center 063) Namwon Medical Center 063) Jeonbuk University Hospital 063) Jesus Hospital 063) Suncheon Medical Center 061) Gangjin Medical Center 061) Mokpo Medical Center 061) Pohang Medical Center 054) Andong Medical Center 054) Gimcheon Medical Center 054) Uljin Medical Center 054) Sangju Red Cross Hospital 054) Andong Sungso Hospital 054) Masan Medical Center 055) Jinju Medical Center 055) Tongyeong Red Cross Hospital 055) Geochang Red Cross Hospital 055) Changwon Fatima Hospital 055) GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 33

34 Employment and Job Training Plan a bright future with your job 6Working in society and earning money is a necessary part of life. However, if you are worried and hesitant over finding a new job, you should take advantage of the work-related information provided in this section. The information will be useful when you look for a new career. 34

35 Employment How do I find a job? You can obtain job opportunities through your personal network, but you can also find useful job information through local employment support centers, city or county job information centers, or women resources development centers. JOBNET ( JOBNET is a website managed by the Korea Employment Information Service. Job information is collected from other websites and job seekers are provided with various job opportunities. WORKNET ( This is a website managed by the Ministry of Labor offering information about job opportunities. Korean Network for Occupations & Workers (know.work.go.kr) This is a website managed by Korean Employment Information Service providing various job opportunities and cyber job consultants. Employment Support Center ( Employment support centers are government-funded centers that have several offices located throughout the nation with a national network. You can search for a suitable job through consultation and receive help continuously until you have found employment. You can find the nearest support center on their website. Women Resources Development Center ( These centers offer various job training and opportunities, as well as consulting on difficulties faced by female employees. This center is specifically designed to meet the needs of women. 6 Women s Work Support Center ( This center is supported by the Ministry of Gender Equality and supports women by informing them of job opportunities and providing business welfare. City-County Job Information Center These local centers provide information on job opportunities as a free service. (For more information, visit your local government website.) Various information can be found through the consultation center of the Ministry of Labor ( ) or through Employment Support Center. GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 35

36 Employment and Job Training Job Training The job training service helps you choose a career Are you worried about lack of work skills? Then try the job training service. The job training service is a project to train those who want jobs requiring skills and knowledge. These skills will help increase your chances of landing employment. Employment Support Center ( If you are of Korean nationality and have signed up for unemployment insurance, job training service is available. For applicants who do not have Korean nationality, job training for former employees is available. Job training total information network ( Various information can be found through the consultation center of the Ministry of Labor ( ) or through the job training total information network HRD-Net ( operated by the Korea Employment Information Service. Others Other than the job training services offered through unemployment insurance, other resources are available at the Women Resources Development Center, the Transnational Marriage & Family-Support Center, and various women s centers. 6 Are you having difficulties because of a language barrier? Take advantage of an interpretation service. Professional interpreters help communication between migrant workers and employers to solve difficulties and facilitate social cohesion. Center Migrant Workers Center Interpretation Service Center for Migrant Workers (Korean International Labor Foundation ) Hotline Available Languages for Service Hour Interpretation Mongolian, Vietnamese, Chinese, Mon. thru Fri Indonesian, Sri Lankan, Thai, Uzbek, 09:00~18:00 Pakistani, and English English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Mon. thru Fri. 09:00~18:00 Mongolian, Thai, Indonesian, and Russian 36

37 Unemployment Insurance The unemployment Insurance program helps workers and their families lead a stable life All businesses employing a worker or more, whether on a regular, temporary or part-time basis, are subject to the unemployment insurance system. This insurance applies to all workers at the business covered, except for workers who work less than 60 hours per month or less than 15 hours per week. Workers who have been employed for more than six months at a company that paid unemployment insurance and discharged against their wishes or fired are eligible for the unemployment benefits. Female workers who are pregnant and employed can apply for maternity leave before or after childbirth Unemployment Allowance Benefits Workers have been discharged against their wishes or fired are eligible for the unemployment benefits. - Application Process: Submit a job-seeking application form and an application form for recipient eligibility acknowledgement. - You will be informed if you are eligible or not. - Visit the job center for unemployment confirmation on the date specified on your application. - During the approval period, you should report your efforts to find new employment (submitting resumes, interview appointment with companies, etc) to the employment support center. Childbirth Leave Any married immigrant woman who is pregnant and employed can apply for pregnancy leave before or after childbirth. Assuming a regular labor period, the total days of childbirth leave can be extended up to 90 days. If you have a miscarriage or stillbirth after 16 weeks of pregnancy, you are entitled to miscarriage/stillbirth leave. - How to apply: Visit a job center close to your residence or workplace and submit an application form for a childbirth leave allowance grant and certificate of childbirth leave (miscarriage/ stillbirth) from the company. The required documents may be submitted via postal service. Childcare Leave Employees having a baby less than one year of age can apply for childcare leave for a year. Employees who have stayed with a company for more than a year, who are a parent of a baby less than 1 years of age, can apply. The maximum duration of childcare leave can be extended to one year within the first year of the child s birth date. - How to apply: submit your application form for childcare leave allowance and the application form approved by your employer to the nearest job center. 6 [Reference Websites] Employment Support Center (unemployment insurance) Korea Workers Compensation & Welfare Service Social Insurance Information System GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 37

38 Financial Support 7We will be on your side when you are in need If you are having financial difficulty due to sudden misfortune, stay strong and find help. The government provides various systems that help married immigrant women in need of financial support. For more details, visit the website of the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Family Affairs and search for the National Basic Livelihood Security System ( 38

39 National Basic Livelihood Security System We provide social security programs with families in need of financial support The National Basic Livelihood Security System (NBLSS) aims to support people with financial need, including costs of living, education, and moderate medical service. Eligibility : Individuals who have no family member with ability to support them and whose accredited income is below the minimum cost of living, and married immigrants who have Korean nationality but are raising underage children of Korean nationality How to Apply Summit an application form for the welfare recipient security/allowance, leasing documents, and other necessary documents to a town, myeon, or dong office. Benefits - The table below is the minimum cost of living standards for For a family exceeding seven people, the standard cash allowance will be increased by 187,766 won per additional person. Livelihood Allowance: provides financial support for clothing, food, fuel costs, and other necessities 1 (person) ,611(won) 656, ,357 1,059,626 1,245,484 1,433,250 The standard cash allowance, exclusive of the medical, education and support allowance, is the maximum allowance that can be supplied to a household having no income. - Housing Allowance : provides financial support to rent or repair a house (For a family exceeding eight people, the standard cash allowance will be increased by 3,000 won per additional person.) 1 (person) ,000(won) 12,000 17,000 21,000 25,000 34,000 - Education Allowance : provides financial support the expenses of admission/tuition/ textbooks (106,000 won) and school supplies (44,000 won) for high school students, and the expenses of auxiliary textbooks (32,000 won) and school supplies (44,000 won) for middle school students. - Childbirth Allowance : provides approximately 500,000 won when a recipient gives birth - Funeral Allowance : provides approximately 400,000 won when family member of recipient dies - Medical Allowance : provides moderate medical services For more information, call your local office or an agent at the Health & Welfare Call Center GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 39

40 Financial Support Self-Support Service We provide job opportunities and help you stand on your own feet If you have difficulty finding a job despite having the necessary skills, the workforce program will offer job opportunities and provide you with an allowance. Eligibility You are eligible without Korean nationality if your accredited income is below 120% of the minimum cost of living (the total income of you and your spouse) and the value of any property you own, as estimated by the government, and if you are capable of working. - Even if you do not have Korean nationality, you are eligible if you are raising an underage child of Korean nationality. Types of Program - Ready-to-go jobs for people with job skills and relevant licenses : easy to find a new job or open a new business, e.g. car mechanics and taxi drivers - RInternships : people can work as an intern in projects related to local for-profit or nonprofit companies - Job for training : people can work to obtain relevant job experience and skills, e.g. nursing home worker - Jobs for low-skilled workers : jobs for workers that do not have job experience or relevant skills, e.g. sanitation worker 7 Working Conditions Considering the recipient s capability and circumstances, they typically work 4 to 5 days a week, or 5 to 8 hours per day. This differs from industry to industry and from occupation to occupation. How to apply Visit or contact a town, myeon, or dong office and consult a government official in charge of social welfare. After the government official evaluates your claim, you will be informed if you are eligible. A job center recommends a job opportunity after consultation. For further information, visit the nearest town, myeon, or dong office or contact a social welfare agent at the Health & Welfare Call Center ( 129) Korean Self-Support Service Association ~3, 40

41 Emergency Welfare Support If an emergency situation has occurred, we will help you with prompt action Emergency welfare is available when your family has no income due to your husband s death, disappearance, or a natural disaster. You are also provided with financial support when you cannot afford medical treatment for a serious disease or injury, or when you are physically or sexually abused by a family member. Eligibility You are eligible if you are pregnant with or nurturing a child of Korean nationality born between you and your Korean husband and you are in an emergency situation. Benefits - Livelihood Support : you may receive a certain amount of money for a month to a maximum of four months. Number of family members 1 (person) Standard cash allowance 418, , ,849 1,170,422 1,353,242 1,542,382 For a family exceeding seven people, the standard cash allowance will increase by 189,140 won per additional person. - Medical Support : You will be supported up to 3,000,000 won. - Support for Housing and Social Welfare Facility Use : You will be provided with money to rent a house, temporary housing, or a shelter. You will be provided Financial support will be provided for a month, and it can be extended up to four months. - Other benefits : Childbirth, funeral allowances (500,000 won respectively), and fuel expenses (60,000 won) during the winter season (Oct. thru Mar.) How to apply Visit the nearest town, myeon, or dong office or contact a social welfare agent at the Health & Welfare Call Center ( 129) How to apply - Call an emergency support division of town, myeon, or dong office. - A governmental official will come and confirm your report, and you will be provided with emergency support. - You can be introduced to governmental organizations or nongovernmental social welfare programs if the emergency situation continues even after your period of emergency support has ended. - A reinvestigation will be held afterwards. If it is proven that you were not in an emergency, you will have to repay the amount of money you have been provided. Reference: town, myeon, or dong office or the Health & Welfare Call Center ( 129) GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 7 41

42 Financial Support Mother-Child Welfare We support women who need financial support or shelters Mother-child welfare is a support system for married immigrant women who are nurturing an underage child or children without their spouses. This system provides these women with financial support or shelters such as protection facilities. Qualification for Mother-Child Welfare If you, a married immigrant woman, are nurturing or raising a child or children with Korean nationality without a spouse or any help from a spouse, then you may be eligible for mother-child welfare services. Korean nationality is not a requirement. You are eligible if your accredited income is below 130% of the minimum cost of living. Benefits Types of Protection Facilities (Protection Period/Extended) - Mother-child protection facilities: a mother-child homeless family with a child under age 18 (3 years / 2 years) - Mother-child self-support facilities: a mother-child homeless family with lack of preparation for independence (3 years / 2 years) - Mother-child temporary protection facilities: a mother-child homeless family suffering from a spouse s physical and/or mental abuse (6 months / 3 months) Others - Education support for high school students - Child support for a child or children under age 8 (50,000 won per month) - Welfare fund loan (a loan of up to 20,000,000 won to rent a house and business funds at a low interest rate) - Permanent rental house on a preferential basis 7 How to Apply Fill out and submit a welfare beneficiary security application form at the nearest town, myeon, or dong office. A government official will determine if you are an eligible recipient and will inform you of the result. You cannot receive aid simultaneously from the National Basic Livelihood Security System and another welfare service. 42

43 Minimum Cost of Living Standards in 2008 and the standard of the second priority (won/month) For a family exceeding seven people, the standard cash allowance will increase by 224,308 won per additional person. Number of family members Minimum Cost of Living Standard Income standard of the second priority , ,319 1,026,603 1,265,848 1,487,878 1,712, , ,138 1,231,924 1,519,018 1,785,454 2,054,623 The second priority is non-recipients of the National Basic Livelihood Security System and the accredited monthly income is below 120% of the average monthly income. Smart ways to save your pennies We provide services free of charge to recipients of the National Basic Livelihood Security System - Take advantage of tax exemption when you pay resident s tax. - A television receiving fee is exempted. - Reference and issue fees of resident registration, and reissuance fees of resident registration card are exempted. - You can save your water bills in Seoul. - You are provided with standard plastic garbage bags. - Welfare Telephone Service wire telephone: exemption for the initial fees, monthly basic rates and 114 telephone directory, deduction of call charges, and save up to 30% off call charges to mobile phones (limited to 10,000 won per month) Mobile phone: exemption for the initial fees, save up to 35% off monthly basic rate and call charges, and 30% off internet access fee - You can save from 1,000 won up to 1,200 won for your basic rate of telephone. (This exemption varies from place to place. Recipients of welfare telephone service are excluded.) - You can save up to 20% off your electricity bill. If you need counseling or information regarding health or welfare services, call the Health & Welfare Call Center Social security service: National Basic Livelihood Security System, emergency welfare support, medical allowance, and self-support service. - Welfare service: services for the aged, children, the disabled, and mother-child health - Emergency support: emergency welfare support and aids for suicidal urges, child abuse, senior abuse, and emergency medical treatment - Medical service: service for patients that have rare, incurable diseases, cancer, or mental illness, and for those requiring vaccinations. GUIDE BOOK for Married Immigrants in Korea 7 43

44 Protection of Human Rights 8We solve your worries and protect you from any harm Do you live with worries and have no one to talk to in this foreign land? Everyone deserves a life free from fear and anxiety. If you are in trouble and are being abused by other people, we will help you escape from that situation. We will provide guidance and support you in trying to live a better life in Korea. 44