Korea Rolls Out New Immigration Plan: 5 Key Benefits for Foreigners Visiting in 2026
- Korea's Immigration Service published details of its five core values guiding how it handles foreign nationals visiting and living in the country
- The service outlined a mid-to-long term five-year plan it calls the Second Basic Plan for Immigration Policy, setting a clear vision for the country
- Korea's immigration body said it is actively working to attract talented individuals and international students while also addressing illegal residency
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Korea's Immigration Service has outlined the principles and structural framework that now govern how foreign nationals are received, processed, and supported in the country, offering a detailed look at the direction of its 2026 immigration approach.
The Korea Immigration Service (KIS), which operates under the Ministry of Justice, describes itself as the control tower of the country's immigration policy design.
Source: UGC
The service has set its vision as building "a vibrant Korea aiming for greater prominence with global citizens on the global stage," a goal it says is underpinned by five core values: openness, integration, human dignity, protection, and cooperation.
Korea's Five-Year Immigration Blueprint and Benefits
To give its ambitions a structured foundation, the KIS developed what it calls the Second Basic Plan for Immigration Policy, a five-year mid-to-long term plan that maps out how these values will be implemented across all aspects of immigration management.
The plan covers a broad range of functions, from how borders are controlled and visas are issued, to how migrants are integrated into Korean society and how refugees are recognised and supported.
The KIS also maintains a dedicated division responsible for protecting vulnerable foreign residents alongside those that investigate and expel individuals who break immigration law.
A separate division handles the digitalisation of immigration processing, reflecting the service's push towards more efficient and tech-driven administration.
What This Means for Foreigners in Korea
For those looking to visit, study, or live in Korea, the KIS says it is actively developing measures to welcome skilled workers and international students.
At the same time, it is clear that border management remains a priority, with specific teams assigned to monitor entry and departure trends and handle enforcement against those residing in the country illegally.
The service's Immigrant Integration Division plays a particularly notable role, as it designs social integration policies for migrants and manages the residence status of those who have married Korean nationals.
South Korea addresses Nigerian politicians
Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that South Korea gave Nigeria what can be described as candid advice in the fight against insecurity.
The advice came from the ambassador of South Korea to Nigeria, Kim Young-Chae.
Source: Legit.ng
