Like many other foreigners living in Korea, I’ve discovered I’m not eligible for the stimulus check. What’s frustrating is that my bank actually messaged me last week saying I was eligible. An article from an English-language Korean newspaper also stated that foreigners on most visa types, excluding student visas, could receive the benefit.
But yesterday, another article clarified that only those with F-5 or F-6 visas, or those registered under a Korean national’s household and enrolled in the national health insurance system, are eligible. When I tried to file a claim through my bank, I was told I didn’t qualify because I’m not enrolled in health insurance – which I am – possibly because I’m not registered as a dependent of a Korean national.
It’s been frustrating and unclear from the start. I believe if you’re working here legally and paying taxes on an employment visa, you should absolutely be eligible for this type of benefit.
Because the rollout has been confusing and poorly communicated, I submitted a petition to let the local government know how uncomfortable this experience has been. If you feel similarly, you can submit one too: https://www.epeople.go.kr/petition/htp/pff.npaid
submitted by /u/ExpertSpinach
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