Seoul, South Korea – The South Korean Ministry of Justice has refuted recent rumors circulating on social media platforms suggesting a large-scale visa-free entry program for Chinese nationals starting in April. The Ministry issued a statement on March 19th, clarifying that the claims are not true.
The rumors, which have gained traction online, alleged that South Korea would implement a visa-free entry policy specifically targeting Chinese citizens. The posts also claimed a significant increase in the quota for the E-7-4 skilled worker visa, from 2,000 to 35,000, leading to an anticipated influx of Chinese workers.
In response, the Ministry of Justice clarified the details surrounding the E-7-4 visa program. This visa is available to foreign workers with non-professional employment (E-9 visa) who have resided in South Korea for at least four years and possess a certain level of Korean language proficiency. While the quota for this visa was indeed increased from 2,000 to 35,000 in September 2023, the Ministry emphasized that this is unrelated to any visa-free entry program and is not limited to citizens of any specific country.
Furthermore, the Ministry stated that as of February 2024, there were 31,869 foreigners in South Korea holding the E-7-4 skilled worker visa, including Chinese nationals.
The Ministry’s statement aims to dispel misinformation and reassure the public regarding immigration policies. It underscores that current regulations remain in place and that the rumors of a mass visa-free entry for Chinese nationals are unfounded.
In conclusion, the South Korean Ministry of Justice has firmly denied the recent rumors of a large-scale visa-free entry program for Chinese nationals starting in April. The Ministry clarified the details of the E-7-4 skilled worker visa program and emphasized that it is unrelated to any visa-free entry policy and is not limited to citizens of any specific country. This clarification is crucial to ensure accurate information and prevent misunderstandings regarding South Korea’s immigration policies.
References:
- Yonhap News Agency. (2024, March 19). 韩法务部：下月大批中国人免签入韩传闻不属实 [South Korean Ministry of Justice: Rumors of Mass Visa-Free Entry for Chinese Nationals Next Month are Untrue]. Retrieved from [Insert URL if available, otherwise omit]
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