Ministry of Justice Expands Regional Specialized Residence (F-2-R) Visa Opportunities

The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) officially expanded municipal allocations and quotas for South Korea's Regional Specialized Residence (F-2-R) Visa program across designated population-declining local governments (인구감소지역).

Program Purpose & Regional Quota Expansion

To counter acute demographic decline and revitalize local economies, South Korea established the F-2-R visa pathway. The policy enables foreign talents—specifically international graduates of Korean universities and accredited skilled workers—to reside and work long-term in designated non-capital cities and counties with their families.

Core Eligibility & Requirements

Applicants must satisfy verified criteria established by the Ministry of Justice and participating local governments:

• Education & Skills: International students holding an Associate or Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited Korean college or university (D-2/D-10 holders), or skilled workers recommended by local municipal mayors/governors.
• Korean Language Proficiency: TOPIK Level 3 or higher, or completion of Korea Immigration and Integration Program (KIIP) Stage 3 or above, ensuring foundational communication ability in Korean society.
• Employment Contract: Legally binding full-time employment contract with an enterprise situated within the designated population-declining municipality.
• Income Benchmark: Annual income meeting or exceeding designated local thresholds (typically 70% or more of Korean per capita Gross National Income).

Family Accompaniment & Work Rights

The F-2-R visa provides significant advantages over standard temporary work visas:

• Family Residence (F-1-R): Spouses and minor children can accompany the primary visa holder and reside together in the designated locality.
• Spousal Employment Permissions: Spouses can obtain official employment permissions (체류자격 외 활동허가) in regional manufacturing, services, and local commerce without requiring independent corporate sponsorship.
• Permanent Residency Pathway: Foreign residents who maintain continuous legal residence and employment in the designated municipality for five years become eligible to apply for permanent residency (F-5).