Overview of the Top-Tier Visa Program
As the Ministry of Justice introduces a suite of policies aimed at boosting competitiveness in advanced industries, the emergence of continuous competition for securing top talent is evident. This includes establishing a Top-Tier Visa category to attract skilled professionals in fields like semiconductors and biotechnology.
1. What is the Top-Tier Visa?
Definition of Terms
- Advanced Fields: Sectors such as industry, venture capital, entrepreneurship, and research where cutting-edge technology development or innovative research is conducted, as recognized by the Minister of Justice for enhancing national competitiveness.
- Top Talent: Senior engineers or seasoned researchers who lead project planning, research, and R&D activities in advanced sector companies.
2. Eligibility Criteria for the Top-Tier Visa
Top Talent Qualifications
- Income: An annual income of at least three times the previous year’s per capita national income.
- Education: A master’s degree or higher from a university ranked in the top 100 within the last five years according to recognized global university rankings, such as:
- QS World University Rankings
- Times Higher Education World Rankings
- US News & World Report Global University Rankings
- Experience:
- Corporate Experience: A minimum of three years at a globally recognized company (within the top 500 of Forbes Global 2000 or Fortune Global 500) and a total of at least eight years of employment.
- Research Experience: A minimum of three years at a leading research institution, with five years of relevant research experience post-PhD.
- Korean Language Proficiency: Completion of the Social Integration Program Level 1 or a TOPIK Level 1 certification.
- Departmental Recommendation: Approval and endorsement from the heads of relevant central administrative agencies.
3. Top-Tier Visa Residency Qualifications
Top Talent Residency Status
- If all Top Talent qualifications are met, individuals are granted the “Top Talent Residency (F-2)” status.
- If the education, experience, and proficiency criteria are met but income is at least double the GNI per capita, they may receive the “Top Talent Specific Activity (E-7)” status through departmental recommendation.
- After three years under the “Top Talent Residency (F-2)” with ongoing income meeting the threefold GNI requirement and completion of Level 3 of the Social Integration Program, individuals can qualify for the “Top Talent Permanent Residency (F-5).”
4. Efficient Electronic Visa Issuance without Diplomatic Visits
Electronic Visa Issuance via Designated Agency
- Purpose: To facilitate swift processing of visa applications.
- Designated Agency: The “Talent and Investment Support Center” at the Seoul Immigration Office.
- Issuance Procedures: Electronic visa applications and processing, including issuance of an immigration privilege card.
5. Application Procedures for Different Visa Categories
Job-Seeking (D-10-T) Visa
- Eligibility: Individuals with a master’s degree or higher from a top 100 university looking to engage in internships or job searches domestically (no departmental recommendation needed).
- Application Validity: Allows submission via overseas diplomatic missions for both electronic and standard visas.
- Required Documents: Common application materials, job search plan, and certification from qualified institutions.
6. Special Family Considerations for Top Talent Visa Holders
Accompanying Family
- Eligibility: Spouses and minor children of the visa holders.
- Residency Status: Different qualifications apply based on the primary visa category.
- Required Documentation: Common application materials, proof of family relationships from the home country, and crime history checks (for spouses).
Parents and Domestic Help
- Eligibility for Parents: Inclusion of parents or in-laws of top talents (but not for job seekers).
- Domestic Help: One permitted individual with necessary documentation to prove employment history.
Conclusion
The Top-Tier Visa initiative is designed to attract elite talent in advanced industries, reinforcing South Korea’s position in key international markets. This streamlined process enables quicker integration of qualified professionals, contributing significantly to ongoing innovation and development in the region.
For more details or to apply online, please visit our dedicated platform.