South Korea is introducing a new “High-Level Visa” to attract foreign professionals in the fields of technology and science. Find out who can get this visa, what benefits it provides, and what other migration programs the government plans to introduce in 2025

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South Korea is set to introduce a new “High-Level Visa” program that will attract highly skilled professionals from Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uganda and other countries to advanced sectors of the Korean economy, such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors and biotechnology. The initiative aims to strengthen the country’s technological competitiveness and address demographic challenges by attracting the best talent from around the world.

This article explains what requirements foreigners must meet to obtain a visa and what its benefits are.

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Who can get a Korean “High-Level Visa”?

To qualify for a high-level visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

- Education

Have a master’s or doctoral degree from one of the world’s top 100 universities.

- Professional Experience

Demonstrate at least three years of experience working for one of the world’s top 500 companies.

- Secure a job with a suitable salary level

According to the requirements, you must secure a position with a salary level of approximately US$97,000 (140 million won) or higher from a South Korean employer.

The specifics of the program, such as the criteria used to determine the best schools, will be announced later when the visa is officially launched, which is expected to be in the coming weeks.

What are the benefits of the Korean “High-Level Visa”?

To attract and retain top talent, the Korean High-Level Visa offers a wide range of benefits:

- Flexibility in residence and employment

Holders of the “High-Level Visa” and their family members will receive an F-2 residence permit, which will allow them to live and work in South Korea for three years.

After this period, foreigners will be eligible to apply for permanent residence.

- Fast-track visa processing

The visa application process has been simplified, which will help speed up the visa issuance process electronically without the need to visit embassies or immigration offices.

- Moving with family

Visa holders can bring their spouse, minor children, and even parents to South Korea. In addition, children of visa holders are allowed to attend international schools without typical enrollment restrictions.

- Settlement assistance

Customer-oriented services will be provided to assist with moving to South Korea, including support with banking, telecommunications, and registration processes.

Tax Benefits of the K-Tech Pass for High-Level Visa Holders

A key benefit of the High-Level Visa Program is its alignment with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy’s K-Tech Pass initiative, which offers additional financial incentives:

1. Income Tax Reduction

Visa holders will receive a 50% income tax exemption for ten years, significantly reducing their financial obligations.

2. Access to Home Loans

The program expands access to home loans by offering limits similar to those available to Korean citizens, with loans up to KRW 500 million.

3. Research and Academic Opportunities

Special research funding and academic opportunities are available to biotechnology professionals, fostering collaboration and innovation in the industry.

By introducing a high-level visa and its associated benefits, South Korea aims to create an optimal environment for foreign experts to thrive, thereby strengthening the country’s position as a global hub for technology and innovation. For skilled foreigners, this permit is a good way to move to the country permanently.

How else is South Korea planning to attract foreign workers?

In addition, to make South Korea a more attractive destination for young foreign workers, the government plans to issue D-10 visas to graduates of top university academic programs, allowing them to freely seek job opportunities in the country for two years.

Also, to attract young workers from other countries, the government will introduce a “youth dream visa,” which will allow “young citizens of friendly countries” to receive vocational training and take advantage of internship opportunities and possibly employment here.

To learn the Korean language, culture, and legal system, the government will strengthen assimilation programs, especially for young foreigners.

When will the new visa programs in South Korea start operating?

Visa issuance is planned to begin in the second half of this year, once local governments complete the development of the program in the second quarter.

Order a consultation with a migration lawyer to learn the current rules for moving and working in South Korea in 2025.

Reminder! From February 24, 2025, South Korea introduced an electronic arrival card, which replaces traditional paper forms for travelers. This initiative is aimed at simplifying the entry process and increasing the efficiency of immigration procedures. We have already told you what a Korean electronic arrival card is, who needs it and how to apply for it.

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