Significant Changes in the KIIP Social Integration Program
Starting January 2025, the previously free KIIP (Korean Immigration and Integration Program) for immigrants will transition to a fee-based system. This initiative is crucial for helping immigrants systematically learn the Korean language and culture, enabling them to adjust and become self-sufficient in our society. While the program has operated at no cost so far, issues such as a lack of motivation among participants and imbalances in the supply of available slots have prompted the introduction of a fee structure.
What is the KIIP Social Integration Program?
The KIIP is an educational program designed to assist newly arrived immigrants in learning the Korean language and understanding the culture, facilitating their integration into Korean society. Initiated in 2009, the program has been fully funded by the Ministry of Justice and has been meticulously developed to support immigrants in becoming self-sufficient members of society. It plays a vital role in enhancing language skills while providing knowledge about Korean laws and cultural norms.
Why Introduce Fees?
The Ministry of Justice announced the introduction of a partial fee system in response to various issues arising from the free program. The no-cost model has led to diminished motivation among some participants, resulting in lower achievement levels. Additionally, despite an increase in demand for the program, the limitations of government funding have made it challenging to offer enough courses. Educational experts have suggested that requiring participants to contribute to the costs would be beneficial in addressing these concerns.
Details of the Paid KIIP Program
The fee structure will not apply uniformly to all participants. The costs will vary according to the specific course taken, with participants required to pay a fee of 100,000 KRW for every 100 hours of instruction. This represents about 20% of the program’s operational costs, effectively meaning participants will contribute 1,000 KRW per hour. Importantly, those who contribute to the national interest or are classified as vulnerable members of society will be exempt from fees, and participants who show consistent commitment will be eligible for a 50% discount.
Exemptions and Reductions
The Ministry has carefully considered the financial impact of this new fee policy to avoid placing undue burdens on immigrants. For instance, immigrants who significantly contribute to the national interest or are in vulnerable situations will not incur any costs, while diligent participants can benefit from reduced fees. Notably, the design of this policy aims to ensure that vulnerable populations are not marginalized.
Expected Outcomes of the Paid Program
With the transition to a fee-based system, it is anticipated that participants will approach their education with greater seriousness, leading to improved academic performance. Furthermore, this new funding model will address the limitations of government financial contributions, allowing for the introduction of additional courses and ultimately balancing supply and demand in education.
Comprehensive Overview of the KIIP
1) Legal Foundation
According to Article 39 of the Immigration Control Act, the Minister of Justice is empowered to implement social integration programs that provide education, information, and counseling services to assist foreign nationals aiming to obtain Korean citizenship or permanent residency.
2) Target Audience & Implementation
- Target Audience: All legally residing foreigners registered in Korea, as well as naturalized citizens whose naturalization occurred within the last three years.
- Implementing Agencies: Education is provided by designated universities, local governments, public institutions, family centers, and private organizations, with a national network of 335 facilities as of August 2024.
3) Educational Curriculum
The program consists of a Korean language and culture course (415 hours) and a social understanding course (100 hours).
4) Fee Schedule
- Stages 1 to 4: Each stage (100 hours) incurs a fee of 100,000 KRW.
- Stage 5 includes a basic course (permanent residency, 70 hours) for 70,000 KRW and an advanced course (naturalization, 30 hours) for 30,000 KRW.
- Level 0 (15 hours) and those exempt from fees are free; those eligible for reductions will pay 50% of the fee.
5) Exemptions and Reductions
- Exemptions: Individuals classified under the Independence Activists Law, National Merit Law, Basic Living Security Act, Employment Promotion and Vocational Rehabilitation for the Disabled Law, etc.
- Reductions: Participants with 100% attendance, excellent learning attitudes as recommended by instructors, and others who show genuine commitment are eligible for reduced fees.
This article reflects the situation as of its writing and is subject to changes in government policy. It is meant solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal interpretation or judgment. For further consultation, please visit the 1:1 Consultation Board.