Work in Korea
A legal guide to working in Korea for foreign workers
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Legal Process Guide
We work only through official channels — EPS, E-9, E-7, and more
Who is this for?
Foreign nationals from the 17 EPS sending countries
Those seeking manufacturing, agriculture, fishery, construction, or service jobs
Ages 18–39 who are motivated to learn Korean
What visas are available?
Free-work visas
Eligible for WorkPass matching after diagnosis
Free to work in most industries (37 occupations such as simple labor restricted; special rules in depopulating regions)
Length of stay: Long-term · renewable
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No restrictions on stay or work; free to change workplaces
Length of stay: Permanent
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Can work in most industries; points-based path to F-5
Length of stay: Long-term · renewable
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Can work in any industry or employment type
Length of stay: Long-term · renewable
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Work in 85 professional occupations such as IT, healthcare, research and education
Length of stay: Up to 3 years (extendable)
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Government-led visas
Official government channels only — not eligible for WorkPass matching
For the visas below, the government (Ministry of Employment and Labor, Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries) directly manages entry procedures and worker allocation. WorkPass does not provide matching or contact disclosure and points you to each ministry's official channels.
Employment Permit System (EPS) — manufacturing, agriculture, fisheries, construction, services
Ministry of Employment and Labor · eps.go.kr
Length of stay: Up to 4 years 10 months
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Short-term workers for farming and fishing peak seasons (designated by local governments)
Ministry of Employment and Labor · city/county governments
Length of stay: Up to 5 months
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Foreign crew on Korean vessels and deep-sea fishing boats
Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries · regional maritime offices
Length of stay: 3 years
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Working visit for ethnic Koreans living in China and CIS countries
Ministry of Employment and Labor · eps.go.kr
Length of stay: Up to 4 years 10 months
View visa info
Korea Employment Process
Standard 5-step EPS / E-9 procedure
- Step 1
EPS Registration & Korean Test
Register with EPS in your country and pass the EPS-TOPIK Korean exam
- Step 2
Employment Permit & Matching
Korean employer applies for an employment permit and matches with the sending-country talent pool
- Step 3
Pre-Departure Training & Visa
Job and culture training in the sending country, then E-9 visa issuance via certificate
- Step 4
Arrival & Orientation
Korean government orientation upon arrival + Alien Registration Card issuance
- Step 5
Workplace Placement & Settlement
Standard contract, 4 social insurances enrollment, housing and settlement support
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the EPS-TOPIK exam?
It is the Korean language test administered in EPS sending countries. A passing score (140+) is required for E-9 application. The test focuses on listening and reading.
Q. Can I be re-employed after my visa expires?
E-9 allows up to 4 years 10 months of stay, after which workers must depart. Diligent workers may re-enter under the special re-entry program one month after departure.
Q. Can I apply without speaking Korean?
Passing EPS-TOPIK is required for E-9. However, you don't need to be fluent at the start — basic Korean is learned through exam preparation.
Q. Does the minimum wage apply?
Yes. Foreign workers receive the same Korean minimum wage based on a 40-hour week. Violations are subject to employer penalties.
Visa Guide
13 core visas for entry & residence in Korea, grouped into 4 categories. Eligibility, procedure, documents, duration, and extension at a glance.
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Get Started FreeVisa information is for reference only. Final approval is at the discretion of Korean immigration authorities.
Information basis
- Last verified
- August 2, 2026
This information is provided for reference only and has no legal effect. Please contact the Korea Immigration Service (HiKorea) or the Ministry of Justice for authoritative information.