Korea to Reduce Immigration Wait Times for Foreign Business Travelers

Starting August 31, the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport will jointly implement 

a new measure to reduce immigration wait times for inbound foreign business travelers arriving 

at Incheon International Airport for business activities.

This decision follows a meeting presided over by the President on June 13, 

where economic organizations and business leaders proposed the need to expedite the entry process 

for foreign nationals visiting Korea for business activities such as investment.

After discussions with relevant government agencies and economic groups, 

the Korean government has decided to expedite the entry process by designating immigration counters 

dedicated to foreign business travelers recommended by six Korean economic organizations: 

the Federation of Korean Industries, the Federation of Middle Market Enterprises of Korea, Korea Enterprises Federation, 

the Korea International Trade Association, American Chamber of Commerce in Korea, 

and the European Chamber of Commerce in Korea.

A government-run pilot project will be launched to operate a dedicated entry counter at Incheon International Airport 

from August 31 through December. Based on the results of this pilot, the government will consider expanding 

the program to other airports, such as Gimpo and Gimhae.

In the mid to long term, the government will work to improve the entry process for general inbound foreign passengers 

by expanding eligibility for automated immigration clearance.

Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho said, “The Ministry of Justice will strive to improve the entry process 

for foreign business travelers. 

This is part of our efforts to support Korean businesses in building a global network and to help foreign entrepreneurs 

actively engage in business and investment activities in Korea.”

Released by the Border Control Division