South Korea E-9 Visa Guide

Complete guide to obtaining the South Korean E-9 Non-Professional Employment Visa through the Employment Permit System (EPS)

E-9 Visa South Korea

What is the E-9 Visa?

The E-9 visa is a non-professional employment visa issued to foreign workers who wish to work in South Korea under the Employment Permit System (EPS). This visa is primarily for workers in industries such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, fishing, and service sectors.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Age between 18 and 39 years old
  • No criminal record
  • Pass the EPS-TOPIK (Korean language proficiency test)
  • Pass medical examination
  • Must be from one of the 16 sending countries with MOU

Application Process

Step 1: EPS-TOPIK Test

Register and pass the Korean language proficiency test specifically designed for EPS workers.

Step 2: Job Application

Submit your application through your country's authorized sending agency.

Step 3: Medical Examination

Complete a medical examination at an authorized hospital.

Step 4: Job Matching

Wait for job matching with Korean employers through the EPS system.

Step 5: Visa Application

Apply for the E-9 visa at the Korean embassy in your country.

Required Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Visa application form
  • Standard size photos
  • EPS-TOPIK certificate
  • Medical examination certificate
  • Employment contract

Visa Duration and Extension

The E-9 visa is initially valid for up to 3 years and can be extended for an additional 1 year and 10 months, making the total possible stay up to 4 years and 10 months.

Extension Requirements:

  • Current employment contract
  • Employer's recommendation
  • Valid passport
  • Alien Registration Card

Rights and Responsibilities

Rights:

  • Minimum wage protection
  • Labor insurance coverage
  • Equal labor rights as Korean workers
  • Access to workers' compensation

Responsibilities:

  • Comply with Korean laws
  • Work only for designated employer
  • Maintain valid visa status
  • Report address changes

Quick Facts

  • Visa Type: Non-Professional Employment
  • Duration: 3 years (initial)
  • Processing Time: 2-4 weeks
  • Extension Possible: Yes
  • Language Requirement: EPS-TOPIK

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Frequently Asked Questions

The EPS-TOPIK is a specialized Korean language proficiency test designed for foreign workers applying through the Employment Permit System. It tests basic Korean language skills needed for working in Korea.

Yes, but with restrictions. You must obtain permission from the Ministry of Employment and Labor, and changes are only allowed for valid reasons such as workplace closure or severe labor rights violations.

After the maximum period of 4 years and 10 months, workers must return to their home country. They can apply for a new E-9 visa after staying outside Korea for at least 3 months.