South Korea Work Visa Guide by Lex Visas
TYPES OF WORK VISAS / WORK PERMITS IN SOUTH KOREA
A South Korea work visa enables foreign nationals to legally live and work in South Korea under employer sponsorship and immigration approval.
- E-7 (Specialty Occupation Visa)
Issued to foreign professionals in designated skilled roles such as IT, engineering, research, and management. Requires relevant academic qualifications and a sponsoring Korean employer.
- E-2 (Foreign Language Instructor Visa)
Granted to native-level speakers teaching foreign languages at registered schools, academies, or universities. A recognized bachelor’s degree is typically required.
- D-8 (Corporate Investment Visa)
For foreign investors who establish or invest in a Korean company. Requires minimum investment capital and company registration in Korea.
- D-7 (Intra-Company Transfer Visa)
For managers, specialists, or executives transferred from an overseas branch to a Korean affiliate within the same corporate group.
- E-9 (Non-Professional Employment Visa)
Designed for workers in sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, fisheries, and construction under Korea’s Employment Permit System (EPS).
- H-1 (Working HolidayVisa)
Allows young nationals from eligible countries to stay for up to one year for cultural exchange while undertaking limited short-term employment.
ELIGIBILITY AND REQUIREMENTS
- Valid job offer or qualifying purpose (depending on visa type)
- Relevant qualifications and/or experience
- Sponsorship by a Korean employer (for most work visas)
- Valid passport
- Clean criminal record (if required)
- Medical examination (if applicable)
- Supporting corporate documents (for investment/ICT cases)
STEP-BY-STEP APPLICATION PROCESS
- Confirm appropriate visa category.
- Employer obtains Certificate of Visa Issuance (if required).
- Submit a visa application at Korean consulate.
- Attend interview (if required).
- Receive visa approval and travel to Korea.
- Apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC) within 90 days of arrival.
PROCESSING TIME AND VALIDITY
- Processing time: 2 – 6 weeks (varies by visa type).
- Initial validity: Typically 1 year (may range from 6 months to 3 years).
- Renewable, subject to continued employment and eligibility.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Lex Visas Pvt. Ltd. is not a law firm. Content is based on industry experience and practical case handling. Any actions taken based on this information are at the reader’s sole discretion and responsibility.