South Korea Introduces New Workcation Visa for Digital Nomads and Their Families

Starting from January 1st, Korea will introduce a new visa policy called the workcation visa. This initiative allows international individuals to reside and work remotely from Korea for a period of one year, with the possibility of extending for an additional year, totaling a maximum stay of two years. Eligibility for this visa requires individuals to be at least 18 years old and have a minimum of one year’s experience in their professional field, according to Korean JoongAng Daily. 

Applicants must also demonstrate a yearly income that is twice as much as Korea’s per capita GNI from the previous year. As of 2022, this means an income requirement of approximately 84.96 million won. Those already in Korea on short-term tourist visas like B-1, B-2, and C-3 may switch to the workcation visa if they fulfill these conditions.

The new visa also accommodates family inclusivity, allowing the visa holder to bring along their spouse and children. Applications for the visa are to be processed through Korean embassies in the applicant’s home country.

However, the workcation visa does not permit its holders to seek employment within Korea; those looking to work locally would need to secure a different type of working visa. The Ministry of Justice anticipates that the introduction of the workcation visa will encourage high-income foreigners to contribute to the local economy and offer an avenue to promote Korean culture and attractions.