Understanding the E-7 Visa in Korea: Job Categories and Requirements
Which Jobs Qualify, and What You Need to Apply
Introduction
If you’re an international student or foreign worker hoping to build a long-term career in South Korea, you’ve probably heard of the E-7 visa.
The E-7 (Specially Designated Activities) visa is one of Korea’s key work visas, allowing foreigners to work in professional, technical, or skilled roles across various industries.
But E-7 approval depends on the specific job category—and each has its own eligibility requirements.
This guide breaks down the E-7 by job type and explains what you’ll need to qualify.
What is the E-7 Visa?
- Designed for professionals with specialized skills or academic backgrounds
- Can be applied for directly by employers who sponsor you
- Usually valid for 1–2 years and renewable
- Requires job matching, not just general employment (must match MOJ-approved job list)
E-7 Eligible Job Categories (직군별 기준)
The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) outlines specific categories under the E-7. Here are the most relevant ones for international students and job seekers:
1. IT & Engineering Professionals (E-7-1)
| Field | Example Roles | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Software Development | Frontend, Backend, Full-Stack Developer | Bachelor’s in IT or relevant experience |
| Data / AI / ML | Data Analyst, AI Engineer | STEM degree + portfolio or projects |
| UX/UI Design | Product Designer, Interaction Designer | Design or CS degree + portfolio |
| Network/Security | Cloud Engineer, DevOps, IT Security | Certs like AWS, CCNA, CompTIA helpful |
Language: Korean not mandatory for some roles, especially in startups or global teams.
2. Business & Marketing (E-7-2 / 7-3)
| Field | Example Roles | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Marketing | SEO/SEM Manager, Content Marketer | Business/Marketing degree or related major |
| Global Sales | Overseas Sales, BD Manager | Fluency in English + your native language |
| PR & Brand Strategy | Communications, PR Manager | Experience with bilingual content is key |
3. Cultural & Creative Work (E-7-4)
| Field | Example Roles | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Media / Broadcasting | Editor, Content Creator | Portfolio, work experience preferred |
| Design / Fashion | Fashion Merchandiser, Visual Designer | Relevant degree + creative portfolio |
| Game Localization | Language Specialist, Tester | Fluent in target language + translation skills |
Game companies and K-content platforms are increasingly open to global talent.
4. Education & Training (E-7-31, not E-2)
| Field | Example Roles | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate Training | HR Development, B2B Trainer | Education background + English/Korean fluency |
| Tech Training | Instructor, Bootcamp Mentor | IT or relevant professional experience |
This is not for general language teaching (E-2) but for skilled instruction roles.
Minimum Requirements Across All Categories
| Item | Standard Requirement |
|---|---|
| Degree | Bachelor’s in related field OR equivalent experience |
| Job-Relevance | Job must match your degree or previous work |
| Salary Threshold | At least ₩2.5M–₩3.0M/month depending on the role |
| Employer Eligibility | Must be registered and approved to hire E-7 workers |
| Job Listing Justification | Employer must prove role requires a foreign professional |
Note: Having a Korean language certificate (TOPIK) is optional but helps with processing and integration.
Documents Required
- Valid passport and ARC (if applying in Korea)
- Employment contract
- Job offer letter
- Graduation certificate (Apostille or embassy-authenticated)
- Transcript
- Resume (in Korean format)
- Company business license and employment plan
- Certificate of Career (if applicable)
Application Process
- Employer sponsors and prepares application
- Submit documents to immigration or visa center
- Pay visa fee (~₩130,000)
- Wait for approval (3–5 weeks on average)
Processing time may be longer depending on the job category and your qualifications.
Common Reasons for Rejection
| Reason | Solution |
|---|---|
| Job doesn’t match your major | Get career certificates or prove relevant experience |
| Low salary | Negotiate for at least the E-7 threshold |
| Employer lacks proper sponsorship status | Ensure they’re registered with immigration authorities |
| Vague job description | Provide detailed, Korean-translated job plan |
Final Thoughts
The E-7 visa is one of the most powerful ways for international students and foreign professionals to build a career in Korea—but it’s also one of the most regulated.
Understanding the job-specific criteria and preparing your documents thoroughly will significantly improve your chances.
Whether you’re a developer, designer, analyst, or marketer—there’s a path forward, and Korea is opening more doors for global talent than ever before.
Next Post:
Korean Work Dinners (회식): What They Are and How to Politely Say No
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