Consulate of the Republic of Korea in Auckland

The Ministry of Justice of South Korea has announced the implementation of a new visa category called "Workation (Digital Nomad)" for high-income foreigners who wish to combine tourism with remote work and stay in the country for an extended period. This policy will be effective from January 1, 2024, and will be in operation for one year.

1. Basic Principles

Individuals affiliated with foreign companies (excluding Korean companies) must possess sufficient funds for domestic living. Prohibition on engaging in domestic employment activities, with violation subject to penalties under immigration laws.

2. Application Criteria

(Eligible applicants) Owners of overseas businesses or foreigners affiliated with foreign companies, who have worked in the same industry remotely for at least one year, along with their families.

(Age requirement) 18 years and above (exceptions for accompanying minor children).

(Income criteria) Individuals with an income equal to or exceeding twice the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the previous year, as specified by the Bank of Korea. (about 106,600 NZD in 2024)

(Criminal record) Applicants with no convictions for serious crimes, threats, coercion, extortion, fraud, voice phishing, narcotics, or crimes related to sexual violence in foreign countries, and those who have not received a prison sentence of one year or more within the last five years.

(Health Insurance) Applicants must be enrolled in a personal health insurance policy with coverage of at least 100 million won to guarantee medical treatment and repatriation to their home country during their stay in Korea.

3. Visa Types

F-1-D (Workation) Visa

Multiple-entry visa (validity period of 1 year, stay period of 1 year)

4. Required Documents

1) Visa application form, 1 passport-sized photo, passport

2) Certificate of employment (proof of working in the same sector for over 1 year)

3) Income proof documents such as salary statements, bank balance certificates, and bank transaction records

4) Criminal record certificate (with apostille)

   - Should be from all countries where you have stayed for more than 1 year in last 5 years.

5) Proof of health insurance coverage

6) Proof of family relationship (if accompanying)

* Additional documents may be required depending on the applicant.