Hello, this is JOBPLOY, a foreign recruitment platform.
The Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Korea will merge the existing two-tiered visa system for Korean nationals into one, effective February 12, 2026.
The era of the H-2 (visiting employment visa), which focused on simple labor, is coming to an end, and the program is being completely reorganized around the permanent F-4 (overseas Korean) visa. Jobploy will provide detailed information on the key details and preparations for this policy.
1. Major Changes: What's Different?
This reorganization is not a simple name change, but a structural change that focuses on the 'stable domestic settlement' of our compatriots.
- Suspension of New H-2 Issuance: New issuance will, in principle, be suspended after February 12, 2026.
- F-4 Integrated Operation: From now on, domestic employment and residence of compatriots will be centered around the F-4 visa.
- Expanded benefits of stay: Unlike the H-2, the F-4 visa has a wider scope of employment, and long-term stays and family allowances are easy.
2. Guide to responding to existing H-2 visa holders
If you are currently in the United States on an H-2 visa, you must be aware of the following:
- Manual Conversion Principle: Your visa will not be automatically converted. You must personally apply for a "change of status."
- Special offer: Waiver of change of status fee for applications made by December 31, 2027.
- Continuity of employment: You can continue to work at your existing H-2 workplace, and your range of occupational choices will expand without the need for a separate work permit.
⚠️ Note: If you have a record of illegal stay or fines in the past, your application may be rejected, so prior check is essential.
3. Submission Document Checklist
Before applying, please make sure you have the documents below ready.
- Basic documents: application form, passport, alien registration card, proof of residence (lease agreement, etc.).
- Proof documents: Documents proving compatriotism, such as a copy of family register or basic certificate.
- Proof of ability: Documents proving Korean language proficiency (important for securing a stay of up to 3 years).
Why You Need to Prepare Now
The 2026 integrated system will provide our compatriots with better employment and settlement conditions. However, since the length of stay will vary (from one to three years) based on Korean language proficiency, it is advantageous to meet the requirements in advance through social integration programs.
We hope you can safely convert your visa within the fee-waiver period and plan a stable future in Korea.