South Korea plans to introduce major changes to its immigration policies including tightening criteria for spouse visas and easing rules on accepting refugees and professional talent.

The Foreigner Policy Committee under the Prime Minister’s Office on Wednesday approved the plans during a meeting.

The revision would require Koreans inviting foreign spouses to the country to meet a certain income standard and prove that a place of residence has been secured. In addition, a level of Korean proficiency of the foreign spouse will also be added to the requirements.

The decision comes as there are a growing number of abuse and cheating cases related to international marriage.

The government also plans to implement a new refugee system from 2014 under which those living in refugee camps in other countries without sufficient protection will be able to apply for refugee status in Korea. Successful applicants will be brought into the country and settle here.

An online visa application process for researchers, academics and other highly qualified individuals will be introduced in January.

The plans will also see the expansion of the system giving permanent residency to foreigners who make significant real estate investment.

In all, 146 measures including issuing medical tourism visas to caregivers accompanying patients, strengthening the review process for foreigners who commit minor offenses and expanding the visa waiver program for Chinese nationals transferring in Korea are outlined in the plans.

By Choi He-suk  (cheesuk@heraldcorp.com)