South Korea

E-Visa route for a Foreign National of Special Ability (E-7). The official e-Visa page says the applicant must be an advanced science and technology expert with an official employment recommendation letter, also called a Gold Card.

• Employer-sponsored only

Digital-nomad route for remote workers employed by overseas companies. The MOFA embassy notice says applicants must be at least 18, meet the salary threshold, have at least one year with the current company, and be permitted to work remotely in Korea for more than 90 days.

• 1 year, renewable
• Remote/foreign employment only

Electronic travel authorization for nationals eligible to enter South Korea without a visa. The official guide says K-ETA is not a visa, is valid for three years unless the passport expires sooner, and does not change the country-specific visa-free stay period.

• No work rights

Korea Visa Portal guidance for short-term general C-3 visas issued through diplomatic missions, with a duration of stay of 90 days or less.

• 90 days
• No work rights

Government investment-immigration program granting F-2 resident status to qualifying investors and eligible family members, with F-5 permanent residence available after maintaining the investment for five years.

• Full work rights
• Path to residency