Staff Reporter 
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South Korea plans to introduce a new ‘Digital Nomad Visa’ for foreign citizens. This initiative aims to simplify remote work and attract global talent. The government will start issuing this visa from January 1, 2024. Officials confirmed this information in a state statement on Friday, December 29, 2023.
Purpose and Benefits
Seoul has introduced this visa to keep employment benefits for foreign nationals, even when they return home on leave. This initiative responds to the increasing trend of remote work worldwide.
The justice minister stated, “We have decided to introduce this special visa so that remote workers or foreign nationals can spend their holidays in the country safely.”
Visa Features
The South Korea Digital Nomad Visa provides an opportunity for workers to benefit from their employment. These workers do not need to stay in South Korea permanently. Currently, those applying for a tourist visa can stay in Korea for up to 90 days. This new visa significantly extends that period. It allows for a stay of up to two years. Initially, the stay is one year, with the possibility of a one-year extension.
Eligibility Criteria
The special visa policy outlines specific requirements for applicants:
- Annual Income: Applicants must have an annual income of at least 84 million Korean won (approximately $64,000).
- Age: Applicants must be over 18 years old.
- Work Experience: Applicants must have at least one year of job experience relevant to their application.
- Employment Status: Applicants must be employed by a company abroad or be self-employed freelancers.
- Insurance: Personal medical insurance covering at least 100 million won for hospital treatment and repatriation during their stay in Korea.
- Criminal Record: Applicants must have a clean criminal record.
Application Process
To apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, applicants need to gather the necessary documents, including:
- Visa Request Form
- Passport and Passport Copy
- Passport-sized Photo
- Proof of Employment or Work
- Pay Slips and Bank Statements
- Extract of Criminal Record
- Proof of Private Insurance
- Address in Korea
Applicants must submit these documents to their local Korean embassy. If currently in Korea, they can switch from a tourist visa or short-term stay visa to the Digital Nomad Visa.
Conclusion
The South Korea Digital Nomad Visa is a significant step towards accommodating the global trend of remote work. It offers extended stay and work benefits, making South Korea an attractive destination for remote workers. This initiative supports the digital nomad lifestyle. It also boosts South Korea’s appeal as a hub for international talent.
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