Regional F-2-R hiring pilot supports qualifying small businesses
A conditional pilot runs in 89 depopulation areas from May 18, 2026 to December 31, 2027.
The Ministry of Justice’s regional small-business employment pilot allows qualifying businesses and agricultural corporations in 89 depopulation areas to hire one F-2-R holder even without Korean employees. It runs from May 18, 2026 through December 31, 2027.
Eligibility considers business history and sales, including at least three years of operation. The ministry describes a contract, local-government recommendation and immigration permission before employment begins.
Employers and applicants should check the detailed criteria with the local