Addressing Labor Shortages in Agriculture: Hiring Foreign Workers
Recently, there has been a growing trend to address labor shortages in the agricultural sector by hiring foreign workers. However, employing foreign nationals requires adherence to legal visa procedures, which can vary widely based on the type of visa. This article aims to clarify the types of visas available for rural farmers to hire foreign workers and the application processes involved.
1. Seasonal Worker Visa (E-8)
The Seasonal Worker Visa is designed to invite foreign workers for short-term employment to alleviate seasonal labor shortages in sectors like agriculture and fisheries.
- Target Industries: Agriculture, fisheries, and other seasonal demand fields
- Employment Duration: Up to 5 months
- Application Process: Local governments partner with foreign municipalities through MOUs, connecting farmers with eligible foreign workers
- Key Features: Selection occurs via local governments, including mandatory pre-employment training and evaluations
Family-Sponsored Seasonal Worker System
In addition to the traditional MOU process, a family-sponsored option allows foreign residents in Korea (visa types like F-6, D-2, etc.) to invite relatives from their home country to work as seasonal laborers.
- Eligibility to Invite: Legal foreign residents in Korea (F-6, F-2, D-2, etc.)
- Invited Individuals: Family members within the fourth degree of kinship (parents, siblings, grandparents, children, etc.)
- Visa Type: E-8-2 (Family-Sponsored Seasonal Worker)
- Main Requirements: The inviter’s legal residency status, income, and housing conditions must be met
- Application Process: Via local government connection and approval process
This family-sponsored option allows foreign relatives to legally work temporarily, benefitting both the farms and the families involved. However, it’s crucial to note that this system operates only in specific localities, so prior confirmation is necessary.
2. Non-Professional Employment Visa (E-9)
The Non-Professional Employment Visa (E-9) is part of the employment permit system, where the South Korean government selects foreign workers for assignment to farms. This is a popular choice for farmers wishing to hire medium- to long-term labor.
- Target Industries: Agriculture, manufacturing, construction, etc.
- Employment Duration: Up to 4 years and 10 months
- Application Process: Applicants must go through the Employment Permit System (EPS) administered by the Ministry of Employment and Labor
- Key Features: The government manages recruitment, training, and entry procedures
3. Visit Employment Visa (H-2)
The H-2 Visa allows eligible overseas Koreans to work in certain industries in South Korea under specific conditions. The agriculture sector is included among the permitted fields.
- Target Group: Overseas Koreans from China and CIS countries
- Employment Duration: Up to 4 years and 10 months (industry restrictions apply)
- Application Process: Candidates must pass an exam and register through employment centers for assignment
- Key Features: Employment is limited to specified sectors, so prior confirmation of eligibility is necessary
4. Summary Comparison Table
| Visa Type | Target Group | Employment Duration | Key Features |
|———–|————–|———————|—————|
| E-8 (Seasonal Worker) | Foreign workers through local MOU or their families | Up to 5 months | Ideal for short-term labor during peak seasons |
| E-9 (Non-Professional Employment) | Under the Employment Permit System (EPS) | Up to 4 years and 10 months | Long-term employment option, government-selected |
| H-2 (Visit Employment) | Overseas Koreans (from China, CIS, etc.) | Up to 4 years and 10 months | Subject to industry limitations |
Conclusion
To hire foreign workers, farmers must thoroughly understand the visa requirements and navigate the application procedures through local governments or employment centers. Since the E-8 and E-9 visas are organized under government or municipal supervision, it’s crucial to pay attention to the application timelines and requirements. For more precise and personalized guidance, seeking one-on-one consultation with a specialized agency is recommended.
This information is based on data as of May 2025 and outlines general content that might not fully apply to individual circumstances. For detailed consultations tailored to personal situations, please visit the 1:1 Consultation Board.