Understanding the Change from E-9 to D-10 Visa in South Korea
One of the common visas for foreign workers in South Korea is the E-9 visa. Many are curious about whether it’s possible to switch from an E-9 to a D-10 job-seeking visa. The short answer is yes, it can be done if certain conditions are met. Let’s dive into what those requirements are.
What is the E-9 Visa?
The E-9 visa is designed for foreign workers engaged in non-professional job categories. This typically includes fields like agriculture, fishing, manufacturing, and construction, allowing foreign laborers to reside and work legally in South Korea. However, this visa comes with numerous restrictions, including limitations on changing employers, which can only occur under specific circumstances. Many E-9 visa holders often seek better job opportunities during their stay, which prompts them to consider transitioning to a D-10 visa.
What is the D-10 Job-Seeking Visa?
The D-10 visa is intended for individuals actively seeking employment. It’s particularly advantageous for foreigners looking for work in professional roles or those planning to establish a tech start-up. This visa is mainly applicable to individuals holding E-1 through E-7 visas, as well as those preparing for business investments.
How to Transition from E-9 to D-10 Visa?
To convert from an E-9 visa to a D-10 visa, you need to meet several essential criteria. Let’s break them down.
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Score-Based System
The D-10 visa operates on a points-based system, with a maximum of 190 points. Applicants must achieve at least 20 points from basic criteria and a minimum total of 60 points to apply. Points are awarded based on various factors, including age, education, work experience, and any study or training conducted in South Korea. This scoring system assesses the applicant’s readiness for job-seeking activities in Korea.
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Exemptions from the Points System
If you are transitioning from an E-9 visa to a D-10 visa, there are situations where you might qualify for exemptions from the points criteria. These include:
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First Job-Seeking Change after Graduating from a Domestic University: If you’ve obtained a degree (associate’s or higher) in South Korea and are applying for the D-10 visa for the first time, the points system does not apply. This means you can switch directly to a job-seeking visa.
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Excellent Korean Language Skills from a Domestic University: If you graduated within the last three years with a degree and have a TOPIK level 4 or higher, or have passed stage 4 of the Social Integration Program, you may also be exempted from the points system, as your language proficiency can significantly aid your job search.
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Experience in Professional Fields: If you hold an E-1 to E-7 visa and have work experience in a professional role, and if your employment contract has ended or you have a valid reason for ceasing job activities, you could qualify for exemption from the points requirement.
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Other Limitations
When applying for a D-10 visa, there are a couple of restrictions to consider:
- If you have previously stayed for six months or more on a D-10 job-seeking visa in the past year, this may limit your ability to reapply for the same visa.
- If you have applied for a D-10 visa change more than three times within three years without complete departure, this could also restrict your eligibility, as it seems you might be using the visa primarily for extended stay rather than genuine job searching.
Immigration Law and Approval Process
The transition from an E-9 to a D-10 visa is subject to immigration laws and regulations. Meeting all outlined conditions does not guarantee approval for the visa change; it’s ultimately at the discretion of the immigration authorities. Therefore, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific processes and necessary documentation.
In conclusion, transitioning from an E-9 visa to a D-10 visa is possible under certain conditions. Especially if you have a degree from a local institution or good proficiency in Korean, or if you have relevant professional experience, you may benefit from the exemptions provided. Always consult the immigration office for the most current information before proceeding with your application.
This information is accurate as of the time of writing, but government policies can change. Additionally, this is merely informational and shouldn’t be taken as legal advice. For further consultation, feel free to visit our 1:1 Counseling Board.