Justice ministry expands work visas and simplifies income proof for foreigners

The justice ministry announced that it has expanded the scope of activities allowed for certain foreign workers and simplified the income documentation required for residency permits.

The changes aim to support the social adaptation of foreigners living in Korea, reduce the burden of document submission for applicants, and encourage top talent in advanced fields to settle long-term in the country.

Under the revised rules, holders of the H-2 visit employment visa can now work as cargo sorters in the courier service and air or land freight handling sectors.

The ministry also broadened eligibility for domestic helpers accompanying F-1 visit co-residence visa holders. The updated regulation now includes housekeepers for individuals holding F-2 residence visas and specific F-5 permanent residency statuses, provided they are approved by the justice minister. This expansion is designed to support the long-term settlement of top talent in advanced industries.

To reduce the paperwork burden, the decree allows the justice minister to request daily wage payment statements and simplified payment records from relevant agencies when reviewing permit applications. Foreigners will no longer need to submit these income proofs directly.

New educational components have been added to the government's social integration program, including vocational ability development training and courses designed to help foreign parents understand the Korean school system.

The revisions replace references to the Statistics Korea chief with the head of the National Data Agency in relevant legal clauses. Presidential Decree No. 36673 was promulgated on September 15.