Changing workplace on an E-9 visa

E-9 workers cannot change employer at will. There must be a reason recognised by law, and there are limits on how many times and how long. Breaking the process can cost you your status.

When a change is allowed (examples)

• The employer terminates or refuses to renew the contract
• The workplace suspends or closes so you cannot keep working
• Employer fault such as unpaid wages, assault or sexual harassment
• Injury or illness makes that particular work impossible

Steps

1. Collect evidence — records of unpaid wages, medical certificates, messages.
2. Apply at the employment centre. Ask 1350 or 1345 for interpretation.
3. Register as a job seeker and receive referrals. You must find work within the set period.
4. Sign a standard labour contract with the new employer.
5. Report the workplace change to immigration to complete the process.

What you need

• Passport, Alien Registration Card
• The previous labour contract and pay records
• Evidence supporting the reason for the change

Where to go

• Your employment centre (Ministry of Employment and Labor)
• 1350 labour counselling (interpretation)
• 1345 Immigration Contact Center

Questions people ask

What if the job-search period runs out? Your status can be affected. If it is not going well, talk to the employment centre or 1350 before the deadline.

My boss refuses to sign. If employer fault is recognised the process can continue without their consent. Call 1350.

Take care

Anyone charging money to "arrange a workplace change" is a broker. The process at the employment centre is free.

Related

e9-visa-basics · unpaid-wages

Source

Ministry of Employment and Labor EPS www.eps.go.kr / As of 2026-08