The Korean government has decided to introduce a new ‘Top-Tier’ visa to attract high-level talent in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence and aerospace, in preparation for an era of 3 million foreign residents. The system has been improved to attract the world’s top talent in advanced fields such as AI robotics, quantum technology, aerospace, semiconductors, secondary batteries, and biotechnology.

Top-Tier visa issuance targets individuals who have obtained a master’s or doctoral degree from a university ranked in the world’s top 100, have more than 8 years of experience including at least 3 years of work experience at one of the world’s top 500 companies, and an annual income of 150 million won or more.

Although the criteria for visa issuance are quite high, the benefits offered are also significant. The family of the talent is issued an F-2 (residence) visa, which allows for free employment and long-term residence, and including the applicant, the entire family can obtain permanent residency after 3 years. In addition, an electronic visa can be issued without visiting a Korean embassy, and parents and domestic assistants can also be invited to Korea, providing various conveniences.

Among companies in high-tech industries where global competition is intense, it is expected that there will be demand for Top-Tier visa talent mainly from Korean conglomerates such as Samsung, Hyundai, SK, and research institutes. In Korea, the visa system is being improved every year, and the scope of permission is continuously expanding. 

TalentLink hopes that the day will come when foreigners wishing to work in Korea can more easily obtain visas and work.