South Korea officially launched its F-1-D “workation” visa on June 30, allowing foreign remote workers to live in the country for up to three years. According to the Ministry of Justice, the new program lowers income requirements for applicants, particularly those aged 18 to 34 who reside outside the Greater Seoul area, to attract global creative talent.
How do the new digital nomad visa requirements differ from the pilot?
The Ministry of Justice relaxed eligibility rules to make the F-1-D visa more accessible than the pilot program that ran from January 2024 through May 2026. Under the original pilot, applicants generally had to earn at least twice South Korea’s gross national income (GNI) per capita from the previous year.
The revised rules introduce flexible income thresholds based on age and location. For example, applicants between 18 and 34 who live outside Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi Province only need to earn the previous year’s GNI per capita. South Korea’s GNI per capita was US$36,963 (S$47,807) in 2025.
What is the goal of the F-1-D “workation” visa?
Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho stated the visa aims to expand opportunities for creative talent to experience South Korea. The government intends to use the program as a “settlement model” to encourage highly skilled individuals to voluntarily put down roots and become assets to the country.
Unlike standard work visas, which require a contract with a South Korean employer, the F-1-D allows nationals employed by overseas companies to reside in the country while maintaining their foreign employment.
Comparing the Pilot vs. Official F-1-D Program
| Feature | Pilot Program | Official F-1-D Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Max Stay | 2 Years | 3 Years |
| Income Requirement | Generally 2x GNI per capita | Variable (Lower for youth/regional) |
| Employer | Overseas | Overseas |
Will this shift population trends in rural Korea?
The Ministry of Justice specifically targeted “population-declining regions” by offering lower income thresholds for those residing outside the Greater Seoul area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the F-1-D visa?
Foreign nationals employed by overseas companies who meet the income thresholds set by the Ministry of Justice.
What is the income requirement for young adults?
Applicants aged 18 to 34 living outside Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi Province must earn at least the previous year’s GNI per capita (US$36,963 in 2025).
How long can I stay in South Korea with this visa?
The maximum period of stay is three years.
Are you planning a workation in South Korea? Which regional city would you choose over Seoul? Let us know in the comments or subscribe to our newsletter for more visa updates.
