The Ministry of Justice of South Korea will implement the Regional Visa Pilot Program starting in 2025 to facilitate the stable settlement of foreigners and promote local economic growth through region-specific residence visa policies.
Only local governments that apply and are selected through an evaluation process will be authorized to issue Regional Visas. This two-year pilot program (2025-2026) will initially cover two main visa types: D-2 Visa (International Students) and E-7 Visa (Skilled Workers). In the future, the scope of the program may expand to include additional visa categories based on its effectiveness.
Previously, visas were issued based on nationwide uniform criteria, making it challenging for schools and businesses due to strict issuance requirements. With the Regional Visa, local governments will have the authority to adjust visa criteria based on their specific regional needs, subject to approval by the Ministry of Justice. This new approach aims to simplify the visa issuance process and enhance flexibility in attracting foreign students and workers.
This adjustment addresses previous challenges faced by businesses and educational institutions due to overly stringent conditions. With government efforts, obtaining visas is expected to become easier, providing greater opportunities for international students and foreign workers.
For businesses and educational institutions struggling with visa-related challenges, this Regional Visa Program presents a valuable opportunity to consider.
If the pilot program proves effective, the number of issued visas may increase, and the program could be expanded nationwide. Additionally, applying this policy to other visa categories will be considered, further expanding education and employment opportunities for foreigners in South Korea.
This initiative is expected to streamline and enhance visa accessibility, benefiting both foreign students and workers, while also helping educational institutions and businesses more easily attract international talent. This, in turn, will contribute to economic growth and social integration in South Korea.
TalentLink fully supports this initiative and looks forward to its successful implementation, bringing positive impacts to both foreigners and local communities!
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