What Is KIIP (Korea Immigration and Integration Program)?

The Korea Immigration and Integration Program (사회통합프로그램, KIIP) is run by the Ministry of Justice and is available to all registered foreigners in Korea. The curriculum has 5 stages: Korean language (stages 0–4, equivalent to early TOPIK levels) and Korean society/civics (stage 5). An evaluation test determines your starting stage. Completion of stage 5 earns significant bonus points in the F-2-7 residency application, fulfills one of the requirements for permanent residency applications for many visa categories, and demonstrates social integration. Classes are free and held at immigration offices, multicultural family support centers, and partner institutions. Waiting lists can be long at popular centers.

KIIP is one of the most cost-effective paths to improving your immigration standing in Korea — it's free, teaches useful language skills, earns points, and satisfies a formal requirement for permanent residency. Many long-term visa holders put it off for years and then scramble to complete it when they're close to applying for F-5. Starting KIIP early in your stay is strongly recommended by most immigration advisors.