Immigration procedures for world-class science and technology talent, including Nobel Prize laureates in science, are set to become significantly faster in South Korea. The government has expanded the legal basis for preferential immigration treatment for key science and engineering personnel, effectively strengthening its "fast-track" system.
The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) announced on the 24th that a partial amendment to the "Special Act on Support for Science and Engineering for Strengthening National Science and Technology Competitiveness" was finalized at a Cabinet meeting after passing the National Assembly. The amendment will take effect six months after presidential approval and official promulgation.
The revision reflects a sharp increase in overseas travel by science and engineering researchers amid expanding international joint research and deepening global cooperation. It aims to reduce cases where research schedules are disrupted by immigration screening delays and to ensure continuity in research activities.
Previously, only a limited group such as persons of scientific and technological merit received preferential immigration treatment. Critics pointed out that the scope was too narrow to cover actively working researchers and next-generation talent. In response, the government significantly expanded the definition of "key science and engineering personnel."
Those eligible for preferential treatment now include:
■ Recipients of internationally recognized awards such as the Nobel Prize in science or the Fields Medal in mathematics
■ Recipients of the Science and Technology Medal or Presidential Citation
■ Individuals who have made groundbreaking contributions to economic and social development through new technology development or improvement
■ Researchers with outstanding academic achievements, such as papers published in or cited by world-renowned academic journals
The eligible group also includes individuals who have contributed to public dissemination of science and technology through publications or lectures. Those recognized by the Minister of Science and ICT as having comparable contributions are also covered.
The amendment establishes a new legal provision enabling preferential immigration screening for key science and engineering personnel. The government expects this to make overseas research activities by top science and technology professionals faster and smoother.
"This legal amendment goes beyond simple immigration preferential treatment. It is significant in that it institutionally clarified national-level recognition for core science and technology talent," said Lee Jun-bae, Director General of the Future Talent Policy Bureau at MSIT. "We will continue to pursue policies that enhance the pride and honor of science and technology professionals."
