This is a live news article which will be continually updated as new information becomes available regarding recent updates made to the South Korea Working Holiday Visa by IEC and South Korea / Canada Immigration.
On August 28th, the South Korean working holiday visa was updated, announcing some significant changes to the visa scheme and its eligibility criteria. The South Korean working holiday visa has been a popular choice for young Canadians looking to live, work, and explore in South Korea. Effective since January 2024, the current program was renewed and expanded into the Youth Mobility Program to allow more youth to participate in more categories and for longer periods. These updates provide amazing new opportunities for certain Canadians previously ineligible for the scheme!
One of the most notable changes is the elimination of the working hours limit. Currently, Canadians are able to work up to 25 hours a week, or 1,300 hours per year. However, the new expansion now allows individuals to work full-time, up to 40 hours a week and 2,080 hours a year. This expansion opens doors for young Canadians to pursue various work opportunities and fully experience the work culture in South Korea!
The South Korea working holiday visa’s duration has been extended. Previously set at a maximum of one year or 12 months, the new program will allow eligible applicants to live and work in South Korea for up to two years, or 24 months. This extended timeframe gives young Canadians the chance to immerse themselves more deeply in the Korean way of life, explore diverse cities, and build meaningful connections in both personal and professional spheres.
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Another key change to the eligibility criteria for this program is the expansion of the age limit. Previously, the Working Holiday Visa was available to Canadian applicants between the ages of 18 and 30. However, the new policy now allows individuals up to the age of 35 to apply. This extension opens doors for a broader range of young Canadians who might have put their dreams of living in South Korea on hold due to the previous age restrictions!
Interested in learning more about applying for a working holiday in South Korea? Get in touch to speak with one of our expert travel coordinators today to start planning your adventure!
These changes came into effect in January 2024 so Canadians looking to enter into the new agreement will have to wait until early next year.
Details for an extension have not been released yet, so sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know about exciting announcements!
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