How to Change Your C-3-8 Visa to an H-2 Visa in South Korea

If you are a Chinese national who has entered South Korea on a C-3-8 visa and wish to switch to an H-2 (Visit Employment) visa, there are specific prerequisites and procedures you must follow. Notably, you will only be eligible for a change in residency status if you are selected by the Ministry of Justice. In this guide, we will outline the process, requirements, and necessary documents for transitioning to the H-2 visa after your arrival in Korea.

Table of Contents

✅ Conditions for Changing Residency Status

To successfully switch from a C-3-8 visa to an H-2 visa, you must meet the following criteria:

You must be legally residing in Korea with a valid C-3-8 visa.
You must be pre-screened and selected by the Ministry of Justice as an eligible candidate for the H-2 visa.
Completion of basic education or vocational training is necessary.
You should not have any disqualifying factors, such as a criminal record or immigration violations.
A tuberculosis (TB) test certificate is required (mandatory for applicants from high-risk countries like China).

🔶 Application Process (Post-Arrival in Korea)

Here’s a step-by-step guide to the application process:

Verification of Pre-Selection: Check with the Ministry of Justice or the Immigration Office to confirm your eligibility as an H-2 candidate.
Book an Appointment: Make a reservation for your visit through Hi Korea.
Visit the Appropriate Immigration Office: Submit your application form and required documents at your local immigration office.
Await Decision: Following review, you will be informed of your application’s outcome. If approved, your Alien Registration Card will be updated to reflect your new H-2 status.

🔶 List of Required Documents

You will need the following documents for your residency status change application:

Application form for residency status change
Your passport and Alien Registration Card
Confirmation of eligibility as an H-2 visa candidate or related documentation
Certificates of completion for basic education or vocational training
Criminal record certificate from the Public Security Bureau in China (must be verified by the consulate)
TB test certificate issued by a medical facility in South Korea (within the last three months)
A letter of guarantee and proof of residence
Application fee: 100,000 KRW

🔶 Important Notes

You cannot apply for a change without prior pre-selection as an H-2 candidate.
Incomplete documentation or disqualifying factors may result in rejection.
If you leave Korea after applying, your application may be halted or denied.

✅ Summary

This information is based on guidelines as of February 2025. Since individual circumstances may vary, please consult for personalized advice via our 1:1 Consultation Form.