Jeonbuk State said that it would host a series of visiting briefings for cities and counties to promote the recruitment of visa applicants based on regional criteria. The event started in Iksan-si(7th), followed by visiting briefing in Sunchang (April 9th), Gimje (April 18th), Buan (April 23rd), and Gunsan (May 16th).

 

This briefing is designed to enhance understanding of the 'Region-Based Visa' system and to promote the settlement of foreigners.

 

Starting this year, the new “Region-Specialized Skilled Workforce (E-7-4R)” visa has been introduced and is now being implemented in Iksan, a region of interest due to population decline. This system allows foreign workers holding an E-9 visa who have resided in Korea for more than two years to switch to the E-7-4R visa without leaving the country, upon recommendation by the Governor of Jeonbuk State. The E-7-4R visa enables accompanying family members to reside and work in the region, supporting stable settlement in the local community.

 

Moreover, to alleviate the burden on foreigners, the Korean language proficiency requirement will be temporarily waived as a post-fulfillment condition until December 31, 2026. This measure aims to lower the barriers for visa conversion and enable more foreigners to take advantage of the system.

 

Furthermore, the operating period of the region-specific visa has been extended to two years, the maximum number of foreign workers employable per company has been increased to 50, and restrictions on industries have been eased, enabling foreign recruitment in a wider range of fields. As a result, many foreigners are expected to gain opportunities for long-term stays.