What You Need to Know When Changing Your Work Visa in Korea
A Practical Guide to Avoid Mistakes (D-10 → E-7, D-2 → E-7, etc.)
Introduction
Planning to switch from a D-10, D-2, or other temporary visa to a work visa (E-7) in Korea?
It’s a great step—but also one full of paperwork, deadlines, and strict criteria.
In this post, we’ll cover:
- When and how to change your visa
- Common pitfalls to avoid
- How to increase your chance of approval
Common Visa Change Scenarios
| From (Current Visa) | To (Work Visa) | Typical Case |
|---|---|---|
| D-2 (Student) | E-7 | After graduation, start full-time work |
| D-10 (Job-Seeking) | E-7 | Got a job after finishing school |
| D-4 (Language) | E-7 | Rare—must prove degree or career experience |
| F-1 (Dependent) | E-7 | Must cancel dependency status + meet criteria |
Required Documents (General E-7 Switch)
- Passport + ARC (Alien Registration Card)
- Visa application form
- Employment contract (must match your major or skills)
- Business registration certificate of company
- Proof of education (apostilled diploma)
- Proof of career (if applicable)
- Job description in Korean
- Certificate of income (show salary meets threshold: ₩2.5M+ monthly)
Additional documents may be requested based on your job type and company.
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid
1. Job doesn’t match your major or past work
E-7 is strict about “professional relevance.” A marketing major can’t easily get E-7 for logistics unless they prove transferable skills.
2. Low salary below E-7 threshold
Your job must offer at least ₩2.5–3M/month (more for certain fields or senior roles)
3. Employer lacks permission to sponsor
Not all companies are registered to hire foreign workers. Immigration may reject your application if the company is not compliant.
4. Applying too late
If you’re on D-10, apply at least 2 weeks before your visa expires. You can’t work under D-10 until E-7 is approved.
5. Inconsistent job descriptions
The job title, duties, and visa category must be consistent and aligned with immigration codes.
Smart Tips for a Smooth Transition
Ask your company to prepare a Korean-language job description
Have your transcript + degree apostilled before applying
Get a letter of recommendation or career certificate if you have relevant past experience
Use a job category listed on the E-7 code table (e.g., software engineer, trade specialist, designer)
Submit through HiKorea or visit your local immigration office directly
Language Tip
You don’t need perfect Korean to apply for E-7, but basic workplace fluency (TOPIK 3+) helps, especially if the job is local-facing.
Final Thoughts
Changing your visa is more than a paperwork process—it’s a strategic step in your Korean career journey.
Prepare thoroughly, get your documents in order, and make sure your job and visa path align.
And always remember: the job defines the visa, not the other way around.
Next Post:
“How to Speak Up in a Korean Meeting Without Feeling Awkward”
Want a free E-7 visa change checklist by major/job? Leave a comment or message us!