Republic of Korea Revises Region Visa Program for 2027-2028

• The Republic of Korea will reform its region-specific visa program for 2027 and 2028 in order to better address labor shortages in specific locations.  

Region Visa Program 

South Korea’s Ministry of Justice has announced reforms to its region-specific visa program to help address labor shortages outside the Seoul metropolitan area and encourage long-term settlement in provincial regions. The changes will apply to the 2027-2028 program cycle, with applications open until November 10, 2026. 

What Is Changing? 

The government said the current program has helped address labor shortages but has not fully reflected local industry needs or encouraged long-term settlement by foreign nationals and their families. Under the revised system, authorities will place greater emphasis on linking: 

• Education 
• Employment 
• Family settlement 
• Regional residency 
• Local economic participation 

Expanded Visa Options

Previously, local governments could use either a D-2 student visa or an E-7 work visa. Under the revised program, they may use both visa categories to better meet regional workforce needs.  

Stricter Selection Process 

To strengthen oversight, the government will: 

• Reduce local government allocations from 60-1,000 participants to 50-200 participants. 
• Lower the overall program cap from 6,790 to approximately 3,000 participants. 

Authorities will also prioritize applicants already in South Korea and introduce enhanced screening measures for overseas applicants, including pre-entry training and Korean-language testing.  

Settlement Incentives 

To encourage long-term settlement in provincial areas: 

• Regional D-2 visa holders may transition to a regional E-7 visa after securing employment in the same region. 
• Spouses of regional E-7 visa holders will be permitted to work in the same region. 

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