The E-7 specific activity visa
E-7 is for working in professional occupations designated by law. Not any job qualifies — the occupation code must match.
Who this covers
- Professionals in designated fields (management, technology, research, design)
- Sub-types for semi-professional and skilled workers
- Your degree or experience must relate to the role
Steps
- Check the role is an E-7 eligible occupation on the HiKorea occupation list or with 1345.
- Check the company meets the requirements — revenue, ratio of Korean employees and similar.
- Sign the employment contract.
- Apply for a certificate of visa eligibility, or a change of status.
- Check the result after review.
- Complete entry and registration, or the status change.
What you need
- Passport, and Alien Registration Card if changing status in Korea
- Degree and career certificates (apostille or consular confirmation may be needed)
- The employment contract
- Company documents (business registration, financial records)
- The fee — check on HiKorea
Where to go
- HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr · 1345
- Your immigration office
- 1350 Ministry of Employment and Labor
Questions people ask
Can I do work unrelated to my major? The link between the role and your degree or experience is assessed. A weak link can lead to refusal.
Is a small company a problem? Some sub-types have company size and financial requirements. Check with 1345 together with the company.
Is there a salary requirement? Some sub-types have a minimum salary condition. The threshold changes yearly, so check.
Can I change employer? Yes, but you must report or obtain permission for the change of workplace. Do not just move.
Take care
Beware brokers charging to "arrange an E-7". Filing paperwork for a company where you do not actually work is false, and detection means cancellation and deportation.
Related
e7-4-skilled-worker · d10-job-seeking · change-of-status · f2-residence-visa
Source
Ministry of Justice HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr / As of 2026-08