Immigration to Be Expedited for Key Science and Technology Personnel: "Supporting Fast-Track Research Activities"

"Special Act on Science and Engineering Support" Passed at Cabinet Meeting

President Lee Jae-myung is speaking at the Cabinet meeting held at the Blue House on the 24th. Photo by Yonhap News

The Ministry of Science and ICT announced on the 24th that a partial amendment to the “Special Act on Supporting Science and Engineering for Strengthening National Scientific and Technological Competitiveness,” which allows for preferential immigration screening for key science and engineering personnel, was finalized at the Cabinet meeting.

This amendment is intended to improve the inconveniences faced during immigration screening and ensure the continuity of research activities, amid an increase in overseas travel by science and engineering researchers due to the expansion of international joint research and deepening global cooperation.

Currently, preferential immigration treatment is limited to a select group such as distinguished contributors to science and technology. However, there have been institutional limitations in broadly covering active researchers in the field and next-generation key talents.

The criteria for selecting key science and engineering personnel include: ▲ individuals who have received internationally recognized science and technology awards such as the Nobel Prize in science or the Fields Medal in mathematics ▲ those awarded the Order of Science and Technology or a presidential citation in the science and technology field under the “Government Commendation Regulations” ▲ those who have made groundbreaking contributions to economic or social development through the development or improvement of new technologies ▲ individuals with outstanding academic achievements, such as having papers published or cited in world-renowned academic journals ▲ those who have made significant contributions to the advancement of science and technology through writing or lectures related to the field ▲ and others recognized by the Minister of Science and ICT as contributors to the development of science and technology equivalent to the above categories.

The government expects that, with the establishment of a legal basis for preferential treatment during immigration screening for key science and engineering personnel, excellent scientists and engineers will be able to conduct overseas research activities more quickly. The new amendment will take effect six months after its promulgation following presidential approval.

Lee Junbae, Director General for Future Talent Policy at the Ministry of Science and ICT, stated, “This legal amendment is significant in that it not only provides immigration privileges but also institutionally clarifies the national recognition for core science and technology talent,” adding, “We will continue to promote policies that enhance the pride and honor of scientists and engineers.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.