The Complete Guide to F-2-7S (K-STAR Visa Track)

Good news for STEM international students studying in Korea. Starting January 2026, the K-STAR Visa Track will be significantly expanded, opening a pathway for more Master’s and PhD graduates from additional universities to settle in Korea more stably.

🎓 What is the K-STAR Visa Track?

The K-STAR Visa Track is a fast-track to permanent residency and naturalization designed to help outstanding STEM talent who earned Master’s or PhD degrees at Korean universities settle in Korea.

Its biggest feature is that, regardless of whether you already have a job, you can receive exceptional visa benefits with only the university president’s recommendation. This is a special government initiative to create an environment where foreign talent can contribute to Korea’s scientific and technological advancement.

🛡️ Key Benefits of the K-STAR Visa Track

📋 Who can apply for F-2-7S? 

• Students at STEM-specialized and designated universities
• Those who have obtained (or are expected to obtain) a STEM Master’s/PhD degree
• Those who have received a recommendation from the university president
• Those who are expected to graduate or are within 1 year of graduation

📅 F-2-7S Period of Stay

• Initial grant: 2 years
• Extension: up to 5 years
 (After 5 years, general points-based requirements apply.)
 

📊 F-2-7S Issuance Status

As of October 2025, 322 senior researchers have already settled in Korea through this visa. (Pakistan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, India in order)

Through this expansion, the government plans to increase the annual selection quota from 100 to up to 600.

🌟 Closing
If you are a motivated international student who wants to contribute to Korea’s science and technology development, don’t miss this opportunity. Please check your eligibility with your university’s international office or the relevant department office as soon as possible.

✅ Universities Eligible for the K-STAR Visa Track

• Existing 5 universities (5)

• Universities added in 2026 (27)