On August 24, 2026, The Ministry of Justice announced the opening of the 2027-28 edition of the region-specific visa program, along with some rule changes for the scheme.
The program enables local governments to hire foreign nationals based on industrial and social needs by area.
The Ministry will strengthen visa planning and management based on regional industrial demand. Previously, local governments could design a program using either an international student (D-2) or professional work (E-7) visa but can now offer and apply both categories.
To prevent indiscriminate recruiting, the number of visa slots will be cut for each metropolitan-level local government from 60 – 1,000 people to 50 – 200, while the cap on participants will be cut from 6790 to around 3000.
The visa selection process will also be strengthened. Foreign nationals in Korea will receive priority, while applicants abroad will be selected on a limited basis only after undergoing preliminary screening including pre-entry training and Korean-language proficiency testing.
Even at the recommendation stage, metropolitan-level local governments will comprehensively assess the Korean-language skills and willingness of applicants to settle in target regions.
Greater incentives will also seek to stimulate settlement in regions. Foreign students with the regional D-2 visa can switch to a regional E-7 if they find employment in the same region after graduation. Spouses of regional E-7 visa holders can also work within the region, a move seeking to encourage family-based settlement and consumption in target areas.
The current application period will close on November 10, 2026.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
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