South Korea has officially introduced a permanent Digital Nomad Visa for eligible international remote workers. Moreover, the new policy allows qualified applicants and their families to live in the country for up to three years.
Who Can Apply For The Workcation Visa?
Officially known as the Workcation Visa, the programme first launched on January 1, 2024. Subsequently, South Korea made the visa permanent on June 30, 2026, after more than two years of testing.
The visa targets foreign nationals working remotely for overseas employers or operating businesses outside South Korea. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess one year of relevant work experience.
Additionally, applicants must meet the government’s minimum income requirements. Under the permanent programme, some younger applicants may qualify with lower income thresholds.
Those planning to live outside major metropolitan areas may also benefit from the relaxed income criteria. Consequently, the government hopes to encourage settlement in regions experiencing population decline.
Applicants must provide proof of employment, income and a clean criminal record. Furthermore, they must obtain private health insurance covering at least KRW 100 million.
Families Can Join Eligible Remote Workers
The programme allows successful applicants to relocate with immediate family members. Legal spouses and unmarried children under 19 years old qualify under the scheme.
Applicants should normally submit their documents through a South Korean embassy or consulate. After arriving, successful applicants must obtain a residence card.
In certain cases, eligible visitors already in South Korea may change their immigration status. However, authorities generally recommend applying through the consular process.
The Workcation Visa does not permit holders to work for South Korean employers. Instead, visa holders must continue working remotely for overseas companies or businesses.
With the programme now permanent and the maximum stay extended to three years, South Korea aims to attract more international remote workers.
