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Moving to Korea in 2025 requires understanding the comprehensive visa system that has been updated with new requirements and regional specialization programs. From tourist visits to permanent residence, Korea offers various visa categories tailored to different purposes and circumstances.
Tourist and Short-term Visit Visas: B-1 and C-3 Categories
For short-term visitors, Korea offers visa-free entry (B-1) and short-term tourist and business visit visas (C-3). The K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) system has streamlined the process for citizens of specific countries, allowing pre-approval for visits without traditional visa applications.
The K-ETA system covers 112 countries and requires online application 72 hours before travel. Approved travelers can stay up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. The C-3 visa remains available for countries not covered by K-ETA or for longer business engagements.
Work and Professional Visas: E-1 through E-7 Classifications
Korea's employment visa system includes E-1 (professors), E-2 (foreign language instructors), E-3 (researchers), E-4 (technical guidance), E-5 (professionals), and E-7 (specific skilled workers). The E-7 visa has undergone significant changes in 2025 with stricter academic and experience requirements.
The E-7 visa now requires enhanced salary standards, with minimum wage thresholds increased by 15% compared to 2024. Applicants must demonstrate specialized skills in designated fields including IT, engineering, finance, and healthcare. The visa allows initial stays of up to two years with renewal possibilities.
Student Visas: D-2 for Degree-seeking Students
The D-2 visa remains the primary option for international students pursuing degrees in Korea. Recent updates allow limited employment opportunities for D-2 visa holders, enabling part-time work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during breaks.
Students can now transition more easily from D-2 to work visas upon graduation, with streamlined procedures for those who complete degrees in STEM fields or Korean language programs. The visa requires proof of financial support, academic qualifications, and Korean language proficiency for certain programs.
Investment and Startup Visas: D-8 for Business Ventures
The D-8 visa supports foreign entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish businesses in Korea. Minimum investment requirements vary by business type, with tech startups requiring lower initial capital compared to traditional businesses. The visa encourages innovation in designated economic zones and startup hubs.
Successful D-8 visa holders can apply for permanent residency after maintaining their business for five years and meeting employment and tax contribution requirements. The government has expanded support programs including mentorship, office space, and tax incentives for D-8 visa recipients.
Family and Companion Visas: F-1 and F-3 Categories
Family-related visas include F-1 (visiting and living) and F-3 (family visit) for family invitation and accompaniment purposes. These visas facilitate family reunification and allow spouses and children of Korean citizens or permanent residents to live in Korea.
The F-3 visa has expanded eligibility to include unmarried partners in long-term relationships under specific conditions. Processing times have been reduced to 30 days for most family visa applications, and online application systems have been enhanced for better accessibility.
Regional Specialized Visa Programs Launch in 2025
Korea has introduced regional specialized visa programs to address local economic needs and demographic challenges. These programs offer tailored visa conditions for specific regions, including relaxed requirements for rural areas facing population decline and enhanced benefits for tech hubs.
The regional visa system includes dedicated tracks for agricultural workers in rural provinces, tourism professionals in Jeju Island, and tech specialists in Busan's blockchain city project. Each program offers unique pathways to permanent residency based on regional contribution and integration.
For accurate and up-to-date information on specific visa requirements and application procedures, applicants must consult the Korea Immigration Service and official visa portals, as requirements can change based on bilateral agreements and policy updates.