Foreign eligibility: visa type decides
Eligibility for foreigners in youth programs depends on visa type. Each program has its own rules like ‘foreign registration holder’, ‘specific visa’, ‘residence’.
Not having a resident ID doesn’t automatically cut you off, but you can’t get everything like locals. Check each program by visa type.
Foreign registration (temporary stay): certificate issued to holders of E-7, E-9, D-2, etc.
Permanent residency (F-5): long‑term stay, often gets benefits similar to locals.
Check both visa type and registration status.
Program comparison by E-7·E-9·D-2 visa
Tap your visa to see which programs you can get.
E-9 non‑professional visa: benefits for migrant workers
E-9 holders are excluded from some major youth supports, but not all. Check each visa’s eligibility for possible benefits.
Youth transport support was for industrial‑complex employees (15‑34). It officially ended on Dec 19 2022. Info still circulates online, but you can’t apply now.
You can get counseling on current welfare services at the Ministry of Employment’s foreign worker support centers (in major cities). It’s not your fault — info changes a lot.
Youth transport support (Korea Industrial Complex Corp.) officially ended Dec 19 2022.
Pages still showing up are outdated. You can’t apply now.
D-2 student visa: how to use education vouchers and job‑search support
If you’re in Korea on a D-2 student visa, support differs while studying vs after graduation. First, check your visa status.
Current students with scholarships should ask their foundation about education support eligibility. Coverage varies. Non‑educational items (living, shopping) are limited.
If you’re job‑searching after graduation, check eligibility for the youth job‑search grant (₩500k/month, up to 6 months). Age 18‑34. Ask Employment Welfare Plus Center (1350) if you can apply with D-2 after graduation.
For example, if you switch to D-10 (job‑search) after graduation, eligibility may change. Always re‑check when visa changes.
E-7 professional visa: check which programs you can apply for
Having an E-7 doesn’t automatically give you more youth benefits. Each program has its own criteria.
Some local programs accept E-7 holders. Busan’s ‘Working Joy Card’ (for young SME employees) can be applied by foreigners on E-7 working at a Busan SME if they meet the criteria, but you must live in Busan.
Nationwide programs often lack clear foreign eligibility. Tip: verify with Employment Welfare Plus Center (1350) or foreign‑service at your local office before applying.
3‑step foreign eligibility check before applying
Doing these 3 steps saves time and avoids rejected applications. Many foreigners skip them and get rejected.
Call 1350 (Ministry of Labor): Korean & English support
Hi Korea (hikorea.go.kr): foreign‑only service
Local office: visit the nearest one
Step 1: Check visa info on Hi Korea portal
Go to hikorea.go.kr, see your visa type and expiry. Knowing the exact type (E-7, E-9, D-2…) is needed for the next step.
Step 2: Call Employment Welfare Plus Center
Call 1350 (Ministry of Labor) or visit the nearest center. There’s a foreign‑specific desk. Tell them the program name and ask if you can apply with your visa.
Step 3: Check documents at local office foreign desk
At your district office’s foreign desk, get a list of required documents. You may need foreign registration, stay‑status certificate, etc.
Changes in youth support programs for 2026
In 2026, there are changes foreigners should note. Biggest change is in agri‑startup field.
Youth startup farmer voucher supports about 1,200 people yearly, giving up to ₩1M/month via NH Nonghyup card. It’s only for agri‑startup founders. If you’re on a regular work visa (E-7, E-9) in a non‑agri job, you’re not eligible.
Foreign‑targeted youth policies change yearly. Tip: regularly check the ‘Foreign Life Guide’ on Hi Korea or subscribe to GLTR Life newsletter for fast updates.
Beneficiaries: about 1,200 per year
Support amount: up to ₩1M/month (NH Nonghyup card)
Target: agri‑startup founders only — not for regular work visas