Korea Work Visa Specialist
Expert work visa services for professionals, artists, expat employees, and investors
Korea Work Visa Overview
Korean work visas are residence permits required for foreigners to legally work in Korea. Various visa types exist depending on job type, skill level, corporate transfer status, and investment amount, including E-7, E-6, D-7, D-8, and D-9.
- E-7 Professional Activity: IT, engineering, and other professional employment
- E-6 Arts & Entertainment: Performance, arts, modeling, sports
- D-7 Intra-company Transfer: Transfer from overseas HQ to Korean branch
- D-8 Corporate Investment: Foreign-invested company management
- D-9 Trade & Management: Import/export trade and business management
Professional Work Visas
Visas for foreign professionals with specialized skills and knowledge
Work visa for IT, engineering, translation, design, and other professional occupations
Visa for performance, entertainment, modeling, sports, and other arts activities
Corporate Transfer & Investment Visas
Visas for overseas company branch transfers and investment activities
For employees transferred from overseas headquarters to Korean branches
Management activities for foreign-invested companies under FIPA
Visa for import/export trade, business management, and operations
Work Visa Application Process
General procedure for Korean work visas (E-7 basis)
Eligibility Check
Verify job classification, education/experience requirements, and employment contract.
Employment Recommendation
Employer obtains employment recommendation from the relevant authority (Ministry of Employment and Labor, etc.).
Document Preparation & Filing
Prepare visa application form, business registration, employment contract, and supporting documents.
Immigration Office Review
Review of Certificate of Confirmation of Visa Issuance (CCVI) or status change application.
Visa Issuance & Entry
Visa issuance and entry into Korea or completion of status change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Korean work visas
Are there education requirements for an E-7 visa?
Yes, E-7 visas require a bachelor's degree or higher, or relevant work experience depending on the occupation. IT and engineering typically require a bachelor's degree plus related experience; some occupations require a master's or higher.
What is the difference between D-7 and D-8 visas?
D-7 is for employees transferred from overseas headquarters to Korean branches. D-8 is for foreigners who directly invest KRW 100M+ to manage a business in Korea.
Can I transition from a work visa to permanent residency (F-5)?
Yes, E-7 or D-8 visa holders can change to an F-2 points-based visa after a certain period, then apply for F-5 permanent residency. Direct F-5 application is also possible if requirements are met.
How long does work visa processing take?
Generally, 4-8 weeks from CCVI application to visa issuance. Additional time may be needed for employment recommendation and document supplementation.
Work Visa Consultation
Our 8+ year experienced specialists will guide you to the optimal work visa pathway.