Can You Transition Directly from E-7-4 Visa to F-2-R?
There’s been a growing curiosity among foreign workers currently employed in South Korea under the E-7-4 visa regarding the possibility of switching to the F-2-R (Special Area Resident) visa. The F-2-R visa allows foreigners who settle in regions experiencing population decline to stay long-term—a move the South Korean government introduced to bolster local populations and industries.
1. What is the F-2-R Visa?
The F-2-R visa is a specialized residency qualification implemented through collaboration between the Ministry of Justice and local governments. Applicants must meet requirements such as residing and working in designated areas (like Taebaek in Gangwon Province, Gochang in Jeollabuk-do, or Jecheon in Chungcheongbuk-do) for a specified duration. Obtaining this visa not only grants long-term residency, but also opens doors for family sponsorship and greater employment flexibility.
2. Is it Possible to Convert Directly from E-7-4 to F-2-R?
In short, it’s generally not possible to skip straight from an E-7-4 visa to an F-2-R visa. However, exceptions can occur. According to the Ministry of Justice’s “Residency Guidelines by Qualification Manual (effective September 1, 2025),” E-7-4 visa holders typically must transition to the E-7-4R (Regional Specialized Skilled Worker) classification first, and then—upon fulfilling specific conditions—can upgrade to the F-2-R visa. Thus, the standard path is E-7-4 → E-7-4R → F-2-R.
3. What is the E-7-4R Stage?
The E-7-4R visa is granted to those who commit to living and working in a population-declining area for three years or more. At this stage, if local employment and residency conditions are met, one may receive a recommendation from the local government, paving the way for a shift to the F-2-R visa. This step is essential in identifying foreigners dedicated to contributing positively to the local economy and community.
4. Exceptional Cases Allowing Direct Transition
Directly switching from E-7-4 to F-2-R is exceptionally allowed if all the following criteria are met:
- A continuous residence and employment in a population-declining area for over three years
- Receipt of a recommendation letter from the local government head
- No outstanding national or local tax liabilities, criminal record, or immigration law violations
- Meeting language proficiency requirements (KIIP level 4 or TOPIK level 4 and above) and income criteria
In this case, applicants may bypass the E-7-4R step through a review by the Ministry of Justice and local authorities. However, this scenario is quite rare, and most applicants will need to progress through the E-7-4R phase.
5. Summary Recap
- Direct Transition Principle: Not possible
- Typical Pathway: E-7-4 → E-7-4R → F-2-R
- Exceptions Allowed: Long-term work in a population-declining area and local recommendation
- Benefits of F-2-R: Long-term stay, family inclusion, greater employment freedom
6. Conclusion
While transitioning directly from the E-7-4 visa to the F-2-R visa is fundamentally challenging, there is a potential route if you have demonstrated stable residency and have a recommendation from local authorities. Foreign workers who consistently contribute to the local economy in regional industries should consider the E-7-4R step as a viable progression towards the F-2-R visa.
This information is based on the Ministry of Justice’s guidelines effective as of September 2025, and individual circumstances may vary. For personalized consultation, please visit our 1:1 consultation board.
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