What Is Points-Based System (거주(F-2) 점수제 / E-7 점수제)?

Korea operates a points-based immigration system for the F-2-7 (거주자격 점수제) visa, which allows skilled foreigners who accumulate sufficient points to apply for a long-term residency status not tied to a specific employer. Points are awarded for: age (younger applicants score higher), education level (PhD, Master's, Bachelor's), Korean language ability (TOPIK score), annual income, employment in a preferred field, and social integration scores (KIIP completion, community contribution). The minimum threshold is typically 80 out of 120 points, though competition is high. A similar points mechanism applies to certain categories. The F-2-7 visa is valid for 3 years and renewable, and holders can apply for permanent residency after a continuous residence requirement is met.

The F-2-7 is one of the most valuable visa upgrades for long-term foreign workers in Korea — it removes employer dependency, allows broad work activities, and sets the stage for permanent residency. However, the points calculation is complex and many applicants miscount their scores. An immigration consultant can audit your actual point total before you apply, which can save a rejected application fee and months of wait time.