The E-7 visa (Specified Activity Visa) is an employment visa for foreigners seeking to work in Korea in a specific field requiring specialized knowledge, skills, or experience. This post provides official information about the E-7 visa.
E7 Visa Eligibility Requirements
To obtain an E7 visa, you must meet the following requirements:
Job suitability: It must be an occupation designated as an E7 visa by the Ministry of Justice.
Education requirements: Typically requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in the relevant field.
Career requirements: At least 1 year of experience in a related field is required (may vary depending on the job).
employment contract: An employment contract with a company in Korea is required.
Salary criteria: A salary higher than the minimum wage must be guaranteed.
The E-7 visa is a work visa issued to foreign nationals seeking to work in Korea in occupations requiring specialized knowledge or skills. This visa covers a wide range of professional occupations, including professors, researchers, IT professionals, chefs, and medical professionals.
Occupations eligible for E7 visa
There are approximately 80 occupations designated by the Ministry of Justice, and the main occupations are as follows:
-
- IT professionals (software developers, systems analysts, etc.)
-
- professional chef
-
- Researchers and Scientists
-
- medical professionals
-
- Culture and Arts Expert
-
- Other professional technical positions
E7 Visa Application Process
-
- Obtaining a work permit: The employer obtains an employment permit from the immigration office.
-
- Obtaining a visa issuance confirmation number: The employer receives a visa issuance approval number from the Ministry of Justice.
-
- Visa application: After receiving the visa issuance confirmation number, apply for a visa at a Korean embassy or consulate abroad.
-
- Alien registration: You must register as an alien at the immigration office in your jurisdiction within 90 days of entering the country.
Required documents
The main documents required when applying for an E7 visa are as follows:
-
- Visa application form
-
- passport
-
- ID photo
-
- Employment contract
-
- Company-related documents (business registration certificate, tax payment certificate, etc.)
-
- Degree certificate and career certificate
-
- Certification (in relevant field)
-
- resume
-
- Criminal record certificate (varies by country)
Duration of stay and extension
-
- Initial stay period: Generally issued for 1 to 3 years
-
- Possibility of extension: Extension is possible if the same conditions are continuously met.
-
- Extension application: Applications can be made starting 4 months prior to the expiration of the period of stay.
Rights of E7 visa holders
-
- Employment activities in designated occupations
-
- Possibility of changing to an F-2 visa (resident visa) after a certain period of time
-
- Family members may accompany you if certain conditions are met (F-3 visa)
-
- Re-entry after departure is possible without a re-entry permit (within 1 year)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change jobs?
Yes, you can. However, you must obtain a "Change of Workplace Permit" from the Immigration Office with your new employer.
Can I have a side job?
In principle, E7 visa holders can only work for a designated employer and occupation, but this is possible in a limited way if they receive a 'Permit for Additional Residence Activities'.
Is it possible to obtain permanent residency?
Yes, after staying on an E7 visa for a certain period of time (usually 5 years) and meeting other conditions, you can apply for an F-5 (permanent resident visa).
Can I bring my family?
Yes, your spouse and minor children may accompany you on an F-3 visa.
caution
-
- Always check the official website of the Immigration Office for the latest information.
-
- Requirements may vary by job type, so please check in advance.
-
- Visa regulations are subject to change, so it is important to check the latest information before applying.
The information in this post is based on official sources, but additional requirements may apply depending on your individual circumstances. For accurate information, please consult the Immigration Office or a legal professional.
