Introduction
After going through different visa options in Korea, including being an exchange student, having a working holiday visa, a startup visa, and business trips as a tourist for 1-2 months every year, I have created this tier list of visa options in Korea. Of course, there are many more visa options available, but these are the most common ones. Let's dive into each tier and explore the details of each visa option.
Overview of All Korean Visa Types
Introduction
In this article, we will explore a wide range of long-term visa options for those interested in living in Korea. Whether you're just starting to explore the possibilities or have already set your heart on settling in Korea, we've got you covered. We have divided the visa options into three tiers, each representing a different stage of your journey. So, let's get started and find out which tier suits you best.
Tier 1: The Explorer
This tier is for individuals who will have their first long-term contact with Korea. The visa for this tier is limited to a fixed duration, and after that, they must leave the country.
- Exchange Student visa (D-2): Many individuals in this tier accidentally end up in Korea because they were likely rejected by other foreign universities, most likely in Japan. They think to themselves, "Korea is close to that area, so let's see what it has to offer." Most of the time, they are completely blown away and pleasantly surprised in the most unexpected and amazing way and fall in love with Korea.
- Working Holiday visa (H-1): Many individuals in this tier use it as a gap year, either after graduating high school and being unsure of what to do next or already having started a job but looking for a change before turning 30. This visa allows them to stay in Korea for up to one year without many restrictions. They are free to travel the country and earn a little money to support themselves. It's a great opportunity to enjoy and explore their interests.
- Korean language school visa (D-4): For those who are not eligible for a working holiday, they want to stay in Korea and see what it has to offer. Learning the language and becoming fluent is one of their goals. Usually, this is also considered a gap year to explore the options in Korea and maybe find job opportunities.
- Digital Nomad visa (F-1-D): Although this visa is not officially announced and currently in progress, it is for those who work remotely and earn their salary in a foreign country while living in Korea. They enjoy the benefits of both worlds, as the economically stronger currency and salary allow them to live more comfortably in Korea.
Tier 2: The Settler
After exploring different options and getting a taste of Korea, simply traveling for a couple of weeks is no longer enough for individuals in this tier. They now look for ways to settle permanently in Korea.
- Employment with a Korean company visa (E-7): Through a sponsored employment visa, individuals can live and work in Korea. Many positions require more than basic Korean skills, as they navigate through a completely different work culture and etiquette. Those with an engineering and IT background have a higher chance of getting hired. However, their earnings will likely be less than what they would make in their home country, especially in Europe or the US. But they get to live in Korea and experience what it has to offer.
- Sponsored Entertainment visa (E-6): Individuals in this tier live in Korea and have been signed by a model/actor agency, allowing them to stay in Korea. They get different gigs for photoshoots or appear on TV and music videos. However, the gigs are not consistent, so they often need to do other part-time jobs to sustain themselves.
- Foreign investment visa (D-8): These individuals have invested around 100 Million Won in a Korean company, giving them the status of a foreign investor. This visa allows them to stay in Korea and take care of the company they have invested in. This requires good knowledge about startups and a strong connection in the country.
- Startup visa (D-10-2, D-8-4): Individuals with ambitions to start their entrepreneurial career and live on their own terms can obtain a Startup Visa. Many of them are freelancers or work in tech, allowing them to work globally while having their base set up in Korea. They need to go through government-offered courses and establish a company in Korea. They want to work on their own terms and simply live in this beautiful country. They are not afraid of taking risks.
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Tier 3: The "Happily Ever After" Visa
If you have found a life partner whom you wish to spend the rest of your life with, then the visa for a permanent stay in Korea would be the ultimate option for you. Many visa experts recommend this option as Korea has limited visa options available currently.
- Marriage Visa (F-6): This visa is typically for individuals from Tier 1 and Tier 2 who have met their partner during their stay in Korea. Initially, they may not have planned to stay in Korea for an extended period, but after forming a partnership, they decide to add another visa to their portfolio. The Marriage Visa allows them to legally marry their partner in Korea and obtain a spouse visa, which grants them the right to live and work in the country.
Conclusion
Could you see yourself in one or those tiers? We've taken a wild ride exploring the visa options in Korea, all neatly organized into three tiers. From the adventurous "Explorer" tier to the determined "Settler" tier, and finally reaching the ultimate "Happily Ever After" tier, each visa option brings its own twist and turns.
Whether you're a student accidentally finding yourself in Korea or a digital nomad living the best of both worlds, Korea has something to offer. And let's not forget the brave souls who dive into the startup world or find their forever love and opt for the marriage visa. It's a journey full of surprises, challenges, and unforgettable experiences.
But hold on, before you pack your bags and book your flight, remember that this tier list is just the tip of the iceberg. There are countless other visa options. So, do your research, consult the experts, and find the perfect visa option that suits your unique situation.
Korea is more than just a destination; it's a vibrant hub of culture, breathtaking landscapes, and endless career opportunities. So, don't miss out on the chance to make the most of your long-term stay in this incredible country.
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About the Author
Kim Ninja (Huy-Kim Nguyen)
Cloud Engineer / WebApp Developer 💻
Content Creator Bridging Korea 🇰🇷 to the World 🌎
Startup Founder based in Seoul, South Korea 🚀
The blog published by Kim Ninja (Huy-Kim Nguyen) is available for informational purposes only and is not considered legal advice on any subject matter.
