The job-seeking period

Overrunning the job-seeking period creates residence status problems. Managing the date is everything.

The basics

• Once you apply to change workplace, a new employment contract must be signed within a set period.
• Where there is a legitimate reason such as illness or injury, the period can be extended under existing rules.
• Overrunning it can make you liable to depart.

The length and extension requirements are set by notice and change. On the day you apply, confirm the exact end date with the employment centre and 1345, and write it down.

What to do during the period

1. Put the end date in your calendar and set a reminder.
2. Keep your phone reachable. Missing referral calls simply burns the time.
3. If your number changes, tell the employment centre immediately.
4. Check vacancies yourself on Work24. See worknet-job-search.
5. If illness prevents job-seeking, get a medical certificate and tell the centre.

Where to go

• Your local employment centre — Work24 www.work24.go.kr
• 1350 Ministry of Employment and Labour (with interpretation)
• 1577-0071 Foreign Workforce Support Centre
• 1345 Immigration Contact Centre (residence status)
• Your nearest migrant workers' support centre

Questions people ask

How many days is it? The rules change, so no number is given here. Confirm the end date at the employment centre on the day you apply and write it on paper.

Can I work during the period? Working without authorisation is a violation. Never do it. Check with 1345.

The period is ending and I haven't found work. Consult the employment centre and 1345 before it ends. Depending on circumstances there may be options. After it lapses, your choices shrink dramatically.

I was ill and couldn't look for work. Prepare a medical certificate and inform the centre. It may be grounds for an extension.

Take care

Waiting and hoping it works out is the most dangerous approach. Two weeks before the end date, tell the employment centre your situation and get advice. Once the period passes, it is hard to undo.

Related

change-workplace-e9 · change-workplace-procedure · job-centers · worknet-job-search

Source

Ministry of Employment and Labour, Employment Permit System www.eps.go.kr / As of 2026-08