The Ministry of Justice’s Enhanced E-7-4 Visa Program for Skilled Workers
Since 2017, the Ministry of Justice has implemented the E-7-4 visa program, aimed at giving foreign workers engaged in long-term, basic labor the opportunity to transition to long-term employment visas based on their accumulated skills. Initially, the program allowed 1,000 to 2,000 applicants to change their status to E-7-4, setting a target of 3,000 for 2023. However, as concerns grew regarding the persistent labor shortages in various industries, the Ministry decided to expedite the selection of skilled workers, completing the initial quota of 3,000 in the first half of the year and planning for additional selections in the latter half. This expanded initiative aims to ensure a steady supply of skilled labor to support the industry.
Improvements to the E-7-4 Visa Program
In order to better facilitate the settlement of foreign workers and ensure stable employment within the industry, we are enhancing the E-7-4 visa program. The improvements are designed to recognize the skills that foreign workers have amassed over time and provide them with the opportunity to transition to long-term employment visas.
Key Improvements
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Relaxation of Status Change Requirements
The requirement for work experience has been reduced. Previously, applicants needed to have worked for five years before qualifying for a change in status; this has now been lowered to four years, allowing workers with shorter experience the chance to transition to skilled status. -
Broadened Employment Scope Based on Company Size
The regulations regarding the employment of foreigners will now be adjusted based on company size. Previously, businesses could only hire a maximum of eight foreigners regardless of their size. Now, companies can employ foreign workers up to 20% of their total workforce, with a cap of 30% for certain sectors like foundational industries and those outside the capital area. -
Expanded Selection of Skilled Workers
To meet the growing demands of the industry, we have expedited the selection process for skilled workers, initially set at 5,000. Instead, we aim to complete the selection process by the end of July 2023, increasing the number of candidates selected in the second quarter from 625 to a total of 3,000. Further expansions are planned for the third quarter and beyond. -
Application Period and Processes for E-7-4 Visa Change
The application window for foreign workers wishing to change to E-7-4 status has changed. While the original application deadline was in June, an additional recruitment period has been introduced, allowing applications from June 27 (Tuesday) to July 5 (Wednesday) for those seeking a status change.
Scoring Insights and Conclusion
The E-7-4 visa operates on a points-based system, with around 600 slots available for regular recruitment, meaning only high-scoring candidates could qualify. For instance, during the first quarter, only candidates scoring 74 points or higher were eligible for selection among the 625 spots available. With the increase to nearly 3,000 spots, it’s likely that even those meeting the minimum threshold of 52 points will have a chance to apply again.
The Ministry of Justice is committed to ongoing improvements to the E-7-4 visa program, taking into account feedback from industries and local governments. By doing so, we aim to support the successful integration of foreign workers into the job market, ensuring they receive recognition for their skills and secure stable employment.
Calculate the score for the February 2024 implementation standard here.
Related Articles
- Application Period and Preparation for Foreign E-7-4 Visa (Updated June 2023)
- Calculate Your E-7-4 Visa Points
For more information on the expansion of the E-7-4 visa program to 30,000 candidates, click here:
E-7-4 Skilled Workers (K-Point – E74 Visa) Extended Selection and Electronic Application Assistance