South Korea Digital Nomad (F-1-D) Visa 2025: Requirements & Application Process

Living and working in South Korea, a vibrant and technologically advanced nation, is an exciting prospect. The introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa (F-1-D) offers remote workers an exceptional chance to immerse themselves in Korean culture. This visa allows you to live, work, and contribute to your industry while enjoying everything Korea has to offer.

Whether you are a freelancer, entrepreneur, or employee of an overseas company, the F-1-D visa provides an excellent opportunity. This guide aims to clarify the application process, helping you confidently plan your move to South Korea.

Key Highlights of the Digital Nomad Visa

• Launch Date: The F-1-D Visa will officially launch on January 1, 2024.
• Availability in 2025: The program will continue in 2025, with minor updates based on initial feedback from 2024.
• Purpose: This visa enables remote workers to live and work in South Korea, boosting the local economy while showcasing Korean culture.
• Duration: The visa allows for a stay of one year, extendable for an additional year, totaling two years.
• 2025 Updates: The program will feature updated income requirements and streamlined application processes to reduce delays.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the South Korea Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Employment Status: Work remotely for a company outside South Korea or be a freelancer with international clients.
• Income Threshold: Earn a minimum annual income of 88 million won (approximately $64,000), equating to about 7.3 million won per month.
• Work Experience: Have at least one year of experience in your current field.
• Medical Insurance: Hold private medical insurance that covers up to 100 million won (around $75,000) for treatment and repatriation.
• Criminal Record: Maintain a clean criminal record in your home country and South Korea.
• Residence: Provide a valid residential address in South Korea during your stay.

Application Process

The application process for the South Korea Digital Nomad Visa involves several steps:

1. Prepare Your Documents

You will need the following documents:

• Visa Application Form: Download from the official embassy website.
• Valid Passport: Ensure it has at least six months of validity remaining.
• Passport Photo: A recent photo against a white background.
• Proof of Employment: This could include your employment contract or freelance agreements.
• Income Proof: Provide pay slips, tax returns, or bank statements from the last 12 months.
• Medical Insurance Certificate: This must demonstrate the required coverage.
• Criminal Record Clearance: Obtain apostilled or notarized documents from your home country and any other countries where you have resided in the past five years.
• Address in Korea: A rental agreement or hotel reservation for your initial stay.

2. Submit Your Application

• Where to Apply: Submit your application at the South Korean Embassy or Consulate in your home country. If you are already in South Korea on a short-term visa, you can apply at a local immigration office.
• How to Submit: You can submit your documents in person or through a certified visa agent.
• Processing Time: Expect processing to take 10 to 15 business days. Additional verification may cause delays.

3. Receive Your Visa and Arrive in Korea

Upon approval, you will receive a visa grant notice, which you can download online. Once you arrive, you must:

• Register for an Alien Registration Card (ARC): Visit your local immigration office within 90 days.
• Subscribe to National Health Insurance: This is mandatory if you plan to stay longer than six months.

By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the application process for the South Korea Digital Nomad Visa and make your dream of living in Korea a reality.