Expansion of Region-Specific Visas Until 2026: Overview of F-2-R, E-7-4R, and F-4-R Categories
The region-specific visa system is set to expand until 2026, introducing various visa types including F-2-R, E-7-4R, and F-4-R. This initiative aims to promote population influx and revive local economies in areas facing demographic decline. Below, we will delve into each visa type and the main changes involved.
Region-Specific Outstanding Talent Visa (F-2-R)
Expanded Target Areas
The program has expanded from the original 89 areas facing population decline to include 18 additional regions of interest, bringing the total to 107. This expansion allows more local governments to devise foreign recruitment policies tailored to their regional characteristics.
New Skilled Workforce Visa (E-7-4R)
Background for Establishment
The E-7-4R visa has been established to create pathways for foreign nationals holding non-professional employment (E-9) and crew member employment (E-10) visas to transition into skilled workforce roles. This aims to provide more opportunities for foreigners to settle in these regions.
Conversion Requirements and Benefits
Foreigners who have lived for over two years on E-9 or E-10 visas and meet the existing requirements for skilled workforce points in E-7-4 can now switch to the E-7-4R visa. Notably, those working in declining or interested regions will be granted additional points from local governments. Additionally, the introduction of a system allows E-7-4R visa holders who have resided in the region for three years or more to convert to the Region-Specific Outstanding Talent (F-2-R) visa.
Employment Opportunities for Accompanying Family Members
Family members of E-7-4R visa holders will also be permitted to work in simple labor roles within declining or interested regions, similar to those holding the F-2-R visa. This policy aims to facilitate stable family settlement.
Improvements in F-2-R Visa Requirements
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Enhanced Korean Language Proficiency Criteria: The requirement for proficiency has been elevated from “Level 3” in the Social Integration Program (or “TOPIK Level 3”) to “Level 4” (or “TOPIK Level 4”), ensuring that outstanding talents are well-acquainted with the Korean language for better integration.
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Flexible Employment Opportunities: Holders of the F-2-R visa can now work freely in any company within the areas facing population decline, with the exception of restricted sectors such as gambling or activities contrary to good morals.
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Increased Foreign Employment Quota: The cap on foreign employees has been expanded from a maximum of 20 to 50, based on the local company size, allowing for greater local employment flexibility.
Region-Specific Korean Diaspora Visa (F-4-R)
Eligibility and Requirements
This visa is aimed at foreign nationals of Korean descent residing abroad who wish to move with their families to selected municipalities. After a minimum residency of 2 years, these individuals and their children will receive the Region-Specific Korean Diaspora (F-4-R) status.
Easing Employment Activity Restrictions
Apart from certain prohibitions related to good morals and public order, employment restrictions have been reduced, allowing work within the corresponding metropolitan areas. Furthermore, accompanying spouses are now permitted to work in simple labor roles, aiding family economic stability.
The recent expansion and enhancement of the region-specific visa system are expected to significantly contribute to population attraction and economic revitalization in declining regions. Interested individuals should check announcements from the corresponding local governments and apply if they meet the necessary requirements.
Note: This information reflects the current status as of the writing date and is subject to change based on government policies. It serves solely as informational content and does not provide legal interpretations or judgments.
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Download Press Release: Ministry of Justice – 2025 Region-Specific Visa Operational Plan