Digital Nomad Visa in South Korea: New Conditions and Income Requirements

South Korea has officially launched the F-1-D visa for foreigners who work remotely for overseas companies or run their own businesses outside the country. The updated rules feature lower income requirements for certain applicants and allow them to stay in Korea for up to three years. Learn more about the requirements for obtaining a digital nomad visa and the possibility of relocating with your family

South Korea has relaxed the requirements for the F-1-D visa, also known as the Workation Visa. According to The Korea Herald, citing the country’s Ministry of Justice, the program officially launched on June 30, 2026, following a pilot period. Income requirements now depend on the applicant’s age and the region where they plan to settle. The maximum stay has been extended from two to three years, and applicants may move to South Korea with their spouse and children.

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South Korea has officially launched a visa for digital nomads

The F-1-D visa, or Workation Visa, is intended for foreigners who want to live in South Korea and continue to work remotely for a company based outside the country. It is also available to business owners registered in another country.

The program was piloted from January 2024 to May 2026, and on June 30, it became permanent. After the pilot phase ended, the authorities revised the income requirements and extended the permitted length of stay.

The F-1-D is not a standard work visa. It allows holders to work remotely for a foreign employer but does not grant the right to be employed by a South Korean company or to earn income from professional activities within the country.

In a previous article, we reported that South Korea extended the K-ETA visa-waiver program through 2026.

Who is eligible for an F-1-D visa in South Korea?

The visa is not intended for all travelers, but specifically for adult foreigners who can perform their work remotely and are not dependent on the South Korean labor market.

The following individuals may apply:

- Foreign nationals aged 18 or older

- Employees of companies registered outside South Korea

- Business owners operating in another country

- Professionals who can fully perform their job duties remotely

- Candidates who have worked in the relevant field for at least one year

- Applicants whose income meets the established financial threshold

Employment with a South Korean company under an F-1-D visa is not permitted. If a foreign national plans to work for a local employer, they will need a different type of work visa.

Learn more about the pros and cons of moving to South Korea by following the link.

How much do you need to earn to obtain a digital nomad visa in South Korea?

During the pilot program, all applicants were required to demonstrate an annual income of at least two times South Korea’s gross national income per capita. Based on 2025 figures, this amounts to approximately 104.82 million won, or $73,926 per year.

Following the official launch of the F-1-D program, the financial threshold ranges from one to two times that amount. The specific amount depends on the applicant’s age and chosen place of residence.

The most lenient requirements apply to applicants aged 18 to 34 who settle outside the metropolitan area—Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi Province. They need only prove an income equal to one gross national income per capita:

- 52.41 million won per year

- About $36,963 per year

- Approximately $3,080 per month

Preferential thresholds are also provided for residence in regions experiencing population decline or at risk of such decline. In this way, South Korea is attempting to direct some foreign professionals outside the Greater Seoul metropolitan area.

Moving to another country requires preparation and careful planning. If you are considering South Korea as your future residence, it is important to have a clear understanding of the process of obtaining a residence permit here. We have already talked about the procedure for submitting documents and obtaining a visa to South Korea.

How long is the visa valid, and can you move there with your family?

Holders of an F-1-D visa may reside in South Korea for up to three years. Previously, the maximum duration was two years: initially, the permit was granted for one year, after which it could be extended for another year. Following a revision of the program, the maximum period was increased by an additional 12 months.

The principal applicant may include immediate family members in the application:

- Spouse

- Minor children who are dependent on the applicant

The applicant’s income must meet the requirements not only for their own stay but also for the family’s relocation. The final duration of authorized stay and the conditions for its extension are determined by South Korea’s immigration authorities.

Working in South Korea offers an exciting immersion in a dynamic mix of tradition and innovation. With its rich cultural heritage and fast-growing economy, the country offers a unique experience for both local and foreign professionals. Before starting the job search procedure, find out about the available types of work visas in the country and what the procedure for obtaining a permit is.

Why has South Korea relaxed the rules for digital nomads?

Through the F-1-D visa, the government plans to attract more qualified foreign professionals to the country and increase their contribution to the local economy. Extending the stay to three years is expected to stimulate spending on housing, food, transportation, and other services.

Special attention was given to regions outside the Greater Seoul area. The reduced income requirements are intended to encourage digital nomads to choose cities and provinces facing population decline.

Justice Minister Jeong Seong-ho noted that the country aims to create an integration model under which foreign professionals can appreciate the benefits of living in South Korea and, if they wish, stay here for a longer period. Thus, the Workation Visa is viewed not only as a temporary residence permit but also as a tool for attracting international talent.

Moving to South Korea requires not only desire, but also a clear understanding of migration procedures, requirements for foreigners and available grounds for legal residence. The Immigration Guide from Visit World will help you understand in detail how to obtain a residence permit or citizenship in South Korea: from the list of required documents and the cost of processing to the deadlines for considering applications and requirements for the applicant.

In the guide you will find step-by-step instructions, contacts of responsible government agencies, rules for filling out questionnaires and practical advice that will greatly simplify the moving process. Get up-to-date and verified information in one PDF file and prepare for life in South Korea without unnecessary risks and mistakes!

We will remind you! Portugal is a popular relocation destination due to its mild climate, safety, and friendliness towards foreigners. In this article, we look at the real pros and cons of living there, the conditions for moving to the country, costs, adaptation, and experience.

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