Newsnomics ANGELINA AJAY reporter |
South Korean government is inviting parents of international students to participate in the Seasonal Worker Program (SWP) started form February 26~December 31, 2024.
“The International Students holding D-2 visa status can invite their parents to temporarily work in farming and fishing communities of the Republic of Korea during the busy seasons to address labor shortages in the mentioned fields” said the Ministry of Justice.
The seasonal work period for parents includes (short term) less than 90 days and (long term) additional 5months with visa status (C-4, E-8).
The foreigners who are eligible to be invited from overseas as seasonal workers were limited to residence of overseas local governments that had signed seasonal work agreements (MOU) with Korean local governments, and relatives of marriage migrants, now expanded to parents of international students holding D-2 visa.
The parents aged 55 or younger with no health issues or criminal record etc., can come to Korea and work in the relevant fields where seasonal work is permitted such as cultivating crops (agriculture) or drying marine products (Fishery) etc.
D-2 Visa holder international students enrolled at a IEQAS (International Education quality Assurance System)
accredited university located outside of the metropolitan areas are eligible to apply for their parents for the Seasonal Worker Program (AWP) but requirements regarding stay and remaining study period must be confirmed. As the application accepted the labor contract will be signed between the parents the student and the Korean employer. The parents of the international student apply for a visa issuance confirmation at an overseas mission in their country. After getting visa, the parents can freely take part in the seasonal work activities in Korea.
The Parents of students on a language training (D-4) visa and parents of students studying in the capital region universities (D-2 visa holders) are excluded.
For more information regarding the current list of local governments participating in the Seasonal Work Program (SWP), please visit www.hikorea.go.kr) website or contact the immigration Contact Center (1345) or the relevant local government office.
