South Korea lowers financial proof to 16 million won for regional D-2 visas

South Korea restructured its Metropolitan Visa Program in Aug. 2026, shifting the framework from broad regional quotas to targeted local industry placements ahead of a formal 2027 rollout.

Pilot rules versus the 2027 talent overhaul

Standard D-2 study and E-7 work visas previously followed uniform national quotas managed entirely from Seoul. Under the pilot running through 2026 across 14 cities and provinces, municipal governments now set their own eligibility criteria based on local labor shortages, the Ministry of Justice confirmed.

The updated framework, which transitions into a formal program for 2027 and 2028, narrows the focus to local university graduates in designated high-demand sectors. Under the revised rules:

• Regional D-2 graduates transitioning to E-7 work status receive priority placement and streamlined processing.

• Direct overseas applicants must complete certified job training and pass minimum Korean language benchmarks before entry.

• Quotas are reduced overall to match verified vacancies rather than broad regional targets.

Regional incentives and spousal work rights

To draw talent away from Seoul, local authorities lowered financial proof thresholds for students to roughly 16 million won ($11,800) to 20 million won ($14,750) per year, compared to higher requirements in the capital. The program also expands permissible part-time work hours and internship access for enrolled students.

Spouses of regional E-7 visa holders gain the right to work within the same province or municipality. Standard national dependent visas restrict spousal employment, making this local concession a notable upgrade for expat families settling outside the capital.

Application requirements and regional eligibility

Applicants can't apply independently through immigration offices; participation requires an official recommendation from an accredited local university or employer in a participating jurisdiction, including Busan, Daegu, Incheon and Gyeongbuk. Pure digital nomads and remote workers without a Korean degree or local employer can't use the track. Those planning on settling in South Korea via the regional program must secure degree enrollment or an eligible contract in an approved province before the tighter 2027 workforce quotas take effect.