To actively address the issue of regional depopulation, Korea is promoting the settlement of foreign nationals in designated population decline areas.

This visa policy aims to encourage both foreigners and local residents to contribute to the sustainable development of local communities.

By guiding the settlement of foreign nationals in alignment with regional specialized industries, universities, and employment opportunities, the policy seeks to expand the living population, stimulate economic activity, and create a virtuous cycle of population influx in local governments.

Applicants must meet both the Ministry of Justice's requirements and additional local government requirements, which include academic qualifications/income, residence, Korean language proficiency, and legal compliance. A. Academic Qualifications/Income (One of the following conditions must be met)1) Academic Qualifications2) Income

Applicants must have obtained at least an associate degree from a domestic educational institution (a two-year college or higher) or be expected to graduate.

If applying as a prospective graduate, applicants must submit proof of graduation within six months (a document issued by the university president or department head).

Upon the first extension of stay, additional proof of degree completion must be submitted.

General Rule

Applicants must continuously reside in the designated population decline area.

ExceptionsC. Employment/Entrepreneurship (One of the following conditions must be met)

If necessary, applicants may reside in a different area than their workplace or business location under certain conditions approved by the Ministry of Justice.The following types of residence arrangements are allowed:Eligible regions for each type:

Type A: Reside in the designated area and work in the same metropolitan region.

Type B: Live with family in the designated area and work in the metropolitan region.

Type C: Live in the metropolitan region and work in the designated area.

Type D: Live in the metropolitan region and start a business in the designated area.

Completion of at least Level 3 in the Social Integration Program (KIIP) or placement at Level 4 or higher in the pre-evaluation.

Attainment of at least Level 3 in the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK).

Application form, passport, one standard-sized photograph, and fee.

A letter of assignment or employment or a letter of cooperation from the foreign minister of the foreign country.

In the case of accompanying family members of members of diplomatic missions or consular organizations of foreign governments, proof of family relationship such as a family relationship certificate or birth certificate issued by the home country.

For activities outside the status of residence

Passport, unification application

Fee ($120 for unauthorized activities): Accompanying family members of U.S. diplomatic missions in Korea are exempt from fees based on reciprocity.

Employment recommendation letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Diplomatic Attaché) (required)

Documents required for activities outside the status of residence for each status of residence (qualifications, etc.)