D-2 International Student’s Transition to E-7 Visa: Is Employment in Manufacturing Possible?

As international students in South Korea approach graduation, one of their biggest concerns is navigating the complexities of visa changes. This is especially true for those from humanities and social sciences who wish to enter the manufacturing sector or other businesses. The reality is that transitioning to an E-7 visa (employment for specific activities) is not straightforward, and graduating alone may not suffice. In this article, we’ll explore the case of Student A, who is currently enrolled in Korean studies, and outline key considerations, strategies, and alternatives for successfully switching from a D-2 visa to an E-7 visa.

1. The Issue of Major Mismatch and Gaps in Assessment Practices

According to the Ministry of Justice’s guidelines for foreign visas, individuals with at least a bachelor’s degree can apply for an E-7 visa, regardless of their field of study. However, during the actual immigration review process, if authorities see a disconnect between a candidate’s major and the job they are applying for, it can often lead to rejection due to perceived lack of expertise. For instance, if a student from a Korean studies background applies for a role in production technology or equipment management at a manufacturing firm, they may face negative evaluations unless they possess relevant knowledge or certification in that area.

2. Alternative Strategy 1: Transition to D-10 Visa and Pursue an Internship

For students like A who are nearing graduation, the first step should be to switch to a D-10 (job-seeking) visa. Once converted, they can register for an internship at a company, allowing them to work for up to six months and gain valuable hands-on experience. During this time, acquiring industry-required certifications or securing proof of relevant work can significantly bolster their application for E-7 visa approval.

3. Alternative Strategy 2: Utilize Regional Visa Assessment Guidelines

Recently, immigration authorities have begun applying different assessment guidelines based on geographical location. In some areas, the criteria for granting visas may be more lenient, increasing the likelihood of a successful E-7 visa transition, even under the same conditions. Therefore, it’s crucial for students to check the guidelines specific to their university’s location and the jurisdiction of the local immigration office. Particularly in smaller regional cities, there may be a more flexible approach to obtaining visas aimed at attracting talent.

4. Alternative Strategy 3: Pursue Graduate Studies and Strategize for F-2-7 Visa

Another viable route is to continue education by enrolling in graduate school, thereby extending their stay and aiming for an F-2-7 (points-based residency) visa. By working part-time during their studies and meeting requirements related to language proficiency, income, experience, and duration of stay, they can successfully transition to a residency visa. The F-2-7 visa offers more stability, allowing individuals to remain and work without restrictions tied to a specific employer, making it a more secure option compared to the E-7 visa.

Conclusion: A Long-Term Strategy for Visa Changes is Essential

While the legal framework permits the transition from a D-2 to an E-7 visa, the actual assessment criteria can be challenging, as students must demonstrate their expertise convincingly. Relying solely on graduation isn’t enough; a combination of relevant certifications, internship experience, and a deep understanding of regional assessment guidelines is crucial for improving the chances of success. Moreover, considering long-term alternatives like the F-2-7 points-based visa could provide a viable solution.

Given the intricate nature of the assessment criteria and the need for flexible, situation-specific approaches, students contemplating this visa transition are strongly encouraged to seek strategic guidance from immigration specialists or attorneys.

Note: This article reflects the situation at the time of writing, and government policies may change. It is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute legal interpretation or advice. For additional consultations, you can reach out through our one-on-one consultation board.