What is the E7 Visa?

The E7 visa is specifically designed for foreign nationals looking to work in certain professional fields in South Korea. This visa allows employment across 87 different sectors, but applicants must meet the qualification criteria relevant to their specific field. Professions such as legal experts, finance and insurance specialists, technical sales representatives, and product planners are potential candidates for the E7 visa.

Eligibility Requirements for E7 Visa Applicants

To qualify for the E7 visa, foreign applicants must satisfy the relevant qualifications for their profession. This process involves submitting various documents, including degree certificates, work experience letters, and employment contracts, which may also require apostille certification. Moreover, the employer in South Korea must provide a valid reason for hiring a foreign worker, demonstrating that no domestic talent is available to fill the role; this is a critical aspect of the E7 visa assessment process.

Changing Status to E7 Visa

Foreigners entering South Korea on short-term visas in categories B or C can sometimes transition to an E7 visa. However, there may be restrictions based on the applicant’s country of origin, particularly for those from nations with high rates of overstaying. For instance, citizens from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom can typically change their status, but individuals from certain other countries may face limitations.

Key Factors in E7 Visa Assessment

When evaluating applications for the E7 visa, the primary concern is the justification for hiring a foreign national. Officials prioritize the protection of jobs for Korean citizens and require a clear explanation in the employment justification letter for why a foreign employee is necessary. Additionally, the potential benefits of hiring a foreign worker to South Korea’s national interests play an essential role in the decision-making process.

Mismatched Qualifications and Occupation

If the applicant’s field of study does not align with the intended occupation for the E7 visa, it may pose challenges for securing the visa. However, there are avenues to strengthen the application through the insights or endorsements of officials. Particularly, foreign nationals who have obtained their degrees in South Korea may have a higher likelihood of receiving their visa even if their field of study differs from the job they intend to pursue.

What to Do If Your E7 Visa is Denied

In the event that an E7 visa application is denied, the foreign national is generally required to leave Korea. However, if they possess a valid D10 job-seeking visa, they can continue their job search. If the D10 visa has expired, they may apply for a grace period to remain in the country for a limited time.

Please note that this information is accurate as of the writing date and is subject to change based on government policies. This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal interpretation or advice. For further assistance, additional consultations can be requested through our 1:1 consultation page.