Strengthening Competitiveness in High-Tech Industries: The Introduction of the Top-Tier Visa
In response to the fierce global competition for securing talented professionals, the Ministry of Justice has initiated various policies designed to bolster the competitiveness of advanced industries such as semiconductors and biotechnology. Among these measures is the introduction of the Top-Tier visa.
Overview of the Top-Tier Visa Program
Definitions
-
Advanced Fields: This encompasses sectors such as industry, venture startups, and research where groundbreaking technological development or innovative research is recognized by the Minister of Justice as crucial for enhancing national competitiveness.
-
Top Talent: This refers to senior engineers or mid-level researchers leading project planning, research, and R&D within advanced-field companies.
Eligibility Criteria for the Top-Tier Visa
Qualifications for Top Talent
-
Income: Applicants must have an annual income that is three times higher than the previous year’s per capita Gross National Income (GNI).
-
Education: Candidates should possess a master’s degree or higher from a university ranked within the top 100 in any renowned global university rankings over the last five years.
Reference for University Rankings:
-
QS World University Ranking
-
QS World University Ranking by Subject: Engineering and Technology
-
Times Higher Education World University Rankings
-
Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject: Engineering
-
US News & World Report Global University Rankings
-
US News & World Report Global University Rankings by Subject: Engineering
-
Experience: Applicants must have relevant work experience as follows:
-
Corporate Experience: A minimum of three years at a global company, contributing to a total of at least eight years of accumulated work experience. The company should be recognized within the top 500 of the Forbes Global 2000, Fortune Global 500, or Time 100 Most Influential Companies within the last three years.
-
Research Experience: A minimum of three years at a respected research institution, along with a minimum of five years of advanced-field research experience after obtaining a doctorate. Acceptable institutions include those ranked within the top 100 of global university rankings or affiliated research facilities of global corporations or government-sponsored research institutes.
-
Korean Language Proficiency: Applicants must either complete Level 1 of the Social Integration Program or pass the TOPIK Level 1 exam.
-
Ministry Recommendation: Candidates must be verified and recommended by the heads of relevant central administrative agencies.
Top-Tier Residency Qualification
Top Talent Residency Requirements
-
Those who meet all the Top-Tier qualification standards will be granted the Top Talent Residency (F-2) visa.
-
If all criteria except income can be met (with income being above twice the per capita GNI), the individual may obtain the Top Talent Specific Activity (E-7) visa with the relevant ministry’s recommendation.
-
After three years, if the individual maintains an income above three times the GNI, completes the Social Integration Program (KIIP) Level 3, and meets related requirements, they may qualify for the Top Talent Permanent Residency (F-5) visa.
-
If the educational requirement is met but employment is not yet secured, a Top Talent Job-seeking (D-10) visa can be issued.
Quick Visa Issuance via Electronic Application Without Visiting Consulates
Electronic Visa Issuance
-
To streamline the visa application process, a designated authority has been established.
-
Designated Authority: The “Talent and Investment Support Center” at the Seoul Immigration Office is responsible for handling electronic visa applications.
-
Application Process: Foreign applicants or their prospective employers can apply electronically, ensuring all necessary documentation is thoroughly submitted without omissions.
Criminal Record Verification for Overseas Applicants
- Applicants must provide a criminal background check issued by their home country’s government, certified within six months of application (with apostille or consular verification from a Korean consulate).
Application Procedures Based on Eligibility
- Visa Issuance and Residency Management
Top Talent Job-Seeking (D-10)
-
Visa Issuance/Status Change: For those who have acquired a master’s degree or higher from a university ranked in the top 100 and are looking to train or seek employment in Korea (no ministry recommendation required).
-
Documents Required: This includes the application form, standardized photographs, a copy of the passport, proof of residence, and the job-seeking plan.
-
Extension of Stay: Necessary documents also include documentation proving job-seeking activities over the past year and future plans.
-
Training Initiation and Institution Change Notification: Individuals must report any changes regarding their training status to the immigration authorities within 15 days.
Top Talent Specific Activity (E-7)
-
Visa Issuance/Status Change: For individuals who have secured an employment contract with a Korean company and meet all requirements defined by the Minister of Justice, including income criteria.
-
Submitting Documents: Includes common application materials, proof of education and experience, employment contracts, and other relevant documentation.
Family Member Eligibility and Application Procedures
Accompanying Family Members of Top Talent
-
Eligible Family Members: This includes spouses and minor children.
-
Residency Criteria: The type of visa will depend on the primary applicant’s status.
Document Submission for Temporary Residents and Personal Assistants
- Parents and assistants who meet the outlined conditions may apply, with specifications for documents needed, including proof of the primary applicant’s employment income.
Application Process for Immigration Privileges
Privilege Card Issuance
-
Eligibility: Foreigners recommended as top talents by the relevant ministries and registered with the authorities.
-
Application Process: Following registration, applicants should apply to the designated authority for an easy access card.
Benefits of the Privilege Card
- Holders can experience expedited immigration procedures at airports for themselves and up to three accompanying persons.
Implementation Date for the Top-Tier Visa
The Top-Tier visa program is set to launch on April 2, 2025.
For more information or to sign up for an online consultation, feel free to visit our website.