What is the E-9 non-professional employment visa
E-9 is the status for workers who came to Korea through the Employment Permit System (EPS). It defines which industries you may work in and when you may change workplace.
Who this covers
- Workers who entered through the EPS process in their home country
- People working in manufacturing, construction, agriculture, livestock, fishing and some services
What to know
- Your contract is a standard labour contract. Check wages, hours and accommodation terms before signing.
- Changing workplace is allowed only for set reasons and a limited number of times (see the separate guide).
- Length of stay depends on your initial contract and on extension or re-employment.
- Check your insurance enrolment — the four major insurances and departure guarantee insurance.
What you need
- Passport, Alien Registration Card
- A copy of the standard labour contract — keep one yourself
- Documents related to the employment permit
Where to go
- EPS www.eps.go.kr
- 1350 Ministry of Employment and Labor (interpretation)
- 1345 Immigration Contact Center
Questions people ask
I never received a contract. Receiving one is your right. Call 1350.
Can I work somewhere else on the side? No. Working at an unauthorised place can lead to cancellation of your status and departure orders.
Take care
It is illegal for a company to hold your passport or registration card. You keep them.
Related
e9-workplace-change · employment-contract
Source
Ministry of Employment and Labor EPS www.eps.go.kr / As of 2026-08