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South Korea
Seoul
South Korea drops elite degree rules for K-Tech Pass in new Type 3 track
South Korea has launched a new evaluation track for its K-Tech Pass program that prioritizes technical expertise and hiring needs over salary or degree prestige. This change allows skilled foreign professionals in advanced industries to qualify for residency based on qualitative merit rather than strict quantitative metrics.
South Korea waives 18,000 won C-3-2 visa fee for group tours through June 30
South Korea has extended its visa fee waiver for group travelers from China, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. The program, now active through the end of 2026, aims to lower entry costs for organized tours to boost regional tourism.
Seoul expands OASIS modules for 60 points toward South Korea D-8-4 visas
The Seoul Metropolitan Government is expanding its Overall Assistance for Start-up Immigration System (OASIS) to help foreign nationals secure D-8-4 startup visas. The program now includes more specialized training and administrative support to streamline the path from business idea to legal residency.
South Korea cuts permanent residency path to 3 years for Top-Tier Visa holders
South Korea has expanded its Top-Tier Visa program to include academic researchers and professors. Additionally, the hiring quota for foreign skilled workers under the E-7-4 visa has increased to 50% in the agriculture and fisheries sectors.
South Korea extends Jeju workcation stays to 90 days and halves income floor
Jeju Island has significantly lowered the entry barrier for its workcation program by halving the annual salary requirement. Remote workers can now stay for up to 6 months, a 300% increase from the previous 2-month limit.
South Korea grants Chinese nationals 5-year and 10-year C-3 visas
South Korea has expanded its multiple-entry visa program for eligible Chinese travelers, offering validity periods of 5 or 10 years. This change simplifies repeat visits and reduces the administrative burden of frequent visa renewals for long-term travelers and business professionals.
Visa-free travelers can skip K-ETA requirements through Dec. 31
South Korea is lowering visa hurdles and extending stay options for foreign workers to address labor shortages. The reforms include longer residency options for certain visa-free visitors in Jeju and streamlined paths for long-term stays.
South Korea extends K-ETA waiver for US and Canada through Dec. 31
Travelers from the U.S. and Canada remain exempt from the K-ETA requirement and its associated fees until the end of 2026. While the e-Arrival Card is still mandatory, this extension simplifies entry and reduces pre-departure costs for short-term visitors and scouting nomads.
South Korea moves employment reporting for F-4 and D-8 visas online Jan. 2
South Korea will implement updated immigration reporting requirements for foreign residents and visitors starting in June. These changes will likely affect how expats and long-term travelers notify authorities of address changes or status updates.
South Korea Updates Immigration Strategy for Skilled Workers
The South Korean government has launched a comprehensive strategy to expand high-skilled visa pathways and create new residency channels for foreign vocational graduates. The plan includes a regional immigration package aimed at depopulated areas, offering more long-term residency options for those willing to work outside major cities.
South Korea Updates Skilled Employment Visas
The Ministry of Justice is consolidating 39 employment visas into three skill-based levels and expanding Top-Tier Visa eligibility for science and tech professionals. New visa categories, including the E-7-M for technical graduates, aim to simplify the path for skilled foreign workers and researchers.
South Korea Updates Top-Tier and K-core Visa Paths
South Korea has launched the 2030 Immigration Policy Future Strategy, introducing the K-core visa for junior college graduates and expanding Top-Tier visa eligibility for researchers. These changes aim to streamline residency paths for high-tech professionals and skilled regional workers.
South Korea Weighs Flexible Movement for Migrant Workers
The South Korean government is considering a policy update to allow migrant workers more freedom to move between regions outside of Seoul. This change aims to address labor shortages in rural areas while providing foreign workers with greater flexibility in their employment locations.
South Korea Updates Visa Rules for Filipino Travelers
Starting February 2024, South Korea has waived the requirement for three months of bank statements for certain Filipino visa applicants. This change simplifies the application process for professionals, government employees, and credit card holders seeking to visit or work remotely from the country.
Inside South Korea's K-Culture Visa Programs
South Korea is launching a new 'K-culture training visa' to allow foreigners to stay long-term while receiving professional training in the entertainment and content industries. This policy aims to simplify the immigration process for those seeking to engage with the Hallyu wave through formal education or industry internships.