South Korea has launched a new immigration initiative, the Top-Tier Visa Program (F-2 Resident Visa), targeted at highly skilled foreign professionals in advanced industries.
This program is to strengthen the country’s status as a global tech hub by attracting experts in fields such as semiconductors, biotechnology, secondary batteries, and display technology.
The visa initiative was announced as part of South Korea’s broader strategy to address talent shortages and enhance innovation in its high-tech sectors. It is designed to provide long-term residency and full economic activity rights for foreign professionals and their families.
According to the official announcement, successful applicants can obtain Immigration VIP Cards, which allow faster immigration clearance and priority security checks at airports.
The F-2 visa offers the following benefits:
The visa targets professionals in four key sectors that are considered critical to South Korea’s future economic competitiveness:
To qualify for the Top-Tier Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements
Educational background:
At least 8 years of relevant work experience, including 3 years at a Global Top 500 company, or at least 5 years of research experience with a PhD, including 3 years at a world-class research institute
Recognised institutions and employers
The South Korean government has identified both global and domestic universities and companies that carry weight in visa application processing.
Applicants can submit their documents through two main channels:
The visa also permits the inclusion of dependents, making it a family-friendly immigration pathway.
Other visa options for foreign professionals
Aside from the Top-Tier Visa, South Korea has several existing visa categories tailored to various skill levels:
For professionals in industries like IT, engineering, education, and design. Requires employer sponsorship and Ministry of Justice approval.
For professionals in industries like IT, engineering, education, and design. Requires employer sponsorship and Ministry of Justice approval.
D-8 Visa (Business Investment)
For entrepreneurs and investors establishing businesses in South Korea, with capital requirements and a business plan.
D-2: For international students
D-10: For job seekers who have recently graduated or concluded employment contracts
F-5 Permanent Residency
Granted after long-term residency under F-2 or E-7 visas with stable income and social integration.