South Korea enhances new post – study opportunities

South Korea has recently launched a series of new immigration initiatives aimed at attracting international talent and fostering stronger integration of immigrants into society. These measures, announced by the Ministry of Justice, focus on offering longer post-study work periods, expanded opportunities for permanent residency, and new visa options for graduates from top-ranking global universities. The goal is to attract at least 100,000 skilled workers over the next five years.

A key part of the initiative is the introduction of new ‘top-tier’ visas, targeting international students who have studied at globally renowned universities in high-tech fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum technology, and aerospace. The government plans to roll out this visa stream in the first quarter of next year, collaborating with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, and the Ministry of SMEs and Startups to outline the specifics of the program.

In addition to the new visa streams, South Korea is making several improvements to its post-graduation work policies:

• The maximum duration for job-search visas (D-10) will be extended from two years to three years.
• Post-study internships at a single company can now last up to one year, an increase from the previous limit of six months.
• There will also be expanded job opportunities for spouses of international students in postgraduate programs, now covering non-professional occupations.
• The scope for permanent residency will be broadened, especially for international graduates from more universities, not just the top five science and engineering institutions.

Minister of Justice Park Sung Jae emphasized that these changes are designed to attract immigrants who are needed for South Korea’s economic and social development, creating a system where they can become self-reliant and contribute to the country.

These initiatives are part of South Korea’s broader goal to host 300,000 international students by 2027. Measures already in place include improved part-time work rights for students and reduced financial requirements for study visas.