South Korea simplifies visa procedures with new "Hallyu" and "Digital Nomad" permits

South Korea, one of Southeast Asia's leading countries, is now one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. Thousands of people venture here every year to discover South Korean culture, sample delicious local cuisine and explore breathtaking landscapes. The K-pop and Kdrama industries have made a major contribution to the country's worldwide popularity.

Despite the country's popularity as a tourist destination and its attractiveness as a land of immigration, people wishing to extend their stay in Korea often face difficulties in obtaining their extended residence permit. Tourist visas have a maximum duration of 90 days, which is insufficient for those wishing to explore the country in depth, while student visas require enrolment at a university or language school. This situation has prompted the South Korean government to introduce new visas to facilitate the process of issuing residence permits.

Hallyu Visa: everything you need to know about the new K culture training program

The new Hallyu visa program is aimed at foreigners wishing to discover the South Korean art world or become artists themselves. Officially called the "K culture training visa", it allows foreigners to stay in Korea for up to two years. This visa is intended for people wishing to study K-pop, theater or any other art form in Korea.

The South Korean government has taken this initiative to meet the growing demand for education on Korean culture and to attract talent in the entertainment industry. Foreigners can study at institutions approved by the South Korean government, but exact details of admission requirements will be announced at a later date.

Future visa applicants stress the importance of inclusion. Student visas are generally reserved for people in their twenties, so the new Hallyu visa must not impose any age restrictions. In addition, the visa must also enable those concerned to work and earn a decent income during their stay.

Digital Nomad Visa: an opportunity for the self-employed

The Digital Nomad Visa is another South Korean government initiative aimed at self-employed workers and digital nomads. With this visa, foreign nationals can stay in South Korea for up to two years to explore their interests.

The South Korean government has taken this initiative to attract self-employed workers, digital nomads, K-pop fans and other categories of professionals. The visa also aims to help the economy recover from the pandemic crisis. The government plans to launch two visas, including a work visa, which will enable digital nomads to work in South Korea. Exact details of the work visa and admission criteria will be announced shortly.

Freelancers and digital nomads often find it difficult to obtain work visas in certain countries due to the nature of their work. The digital nomad visa is an excellent opportunity for these people, who can now work in South Korea while exploring the country.

Why is South Korea becoming a destination of choice for tourists?

South Korea has become a top tourist destination in recent years. The country is famous for its unique culture, delicious cuisine and stunning scenery. Kdramas and K-pop have also played a crucial role in increasing South Korea's popularity worldwide.

K-pop has become a global industry, with South Korean artists increasingly popular abroad. K-pop fans from all over the world come to Korea to experience K-pop culture and attend concerts by their favorite artists. Korea is also famous for its high-quality beauty products, which attract many visitors.

South Korea has also invested heavily in its tourism industry, offering a modern infrastructure and interesting tourist activities for all types of travelers. Travelers can explore incredible places such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Myeongdong Market and the beautiful landscapes of Jeju.

Come and discover all that South Korea has to offer and experience its vibrant and exciting culture!

How to obtain the new Hallyu and Nomade Numérique visas?

Applicants wishing to obtain the "Hallyu" visa must be enrolled at an establishment approved by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. The exact admission criteria are not yet known, but the Ministry has announced that detailed information will be published soon.

Digital Nomad visa applicants must likewise await the exact details of the work visa and the admission criteria, but it is clear that this visa is intended for self-employed workers and digital nomads.

As a reminder, all travelers to South Korea are required to comply with the country's immigration regulations. Visa applicants must comply with all requirements, such as background checks, proof of solvency and health insurance.