A Comprehensive Guide to Changing from E-7-4 to E-7-4R

If you’re a foreign specialist holding an E-7-4 visa and working in a designated area facing population decline, you might be eligible to change your residency status to E-7-4R (Region-Specific Skilled Worker). This visa is part of a program introduced by the South Korean government to invigorate local industries and support skilled workers in settling in these regions.

Table of Contents

1. Overview of the Program

The E-7-4R visa is designed for individuals who have worked and resided in population-declining areas for at least three years. While it is based on the same framework as the existing E-7-4 visa, it has specific requirements regarding your place of residence and employment.

2. Who Can Apply for the Change?

Individuals who qualify for the change include:

Those holding an E-7-4, E-9, E-10, or H-2 visa and have worked for a minimum of two years.
Legally residing workers currently employed in population-declining areas.
Applicants without tax arrears, criminal records, or immigration law violations.
Those who can provide either a recommendation from a local government body or proof of employment in the area.

3. Summary of Requirements for Changing to E-7-4R

4. Application Process for E-7-4R

Sign an Employment Contract – Secure a three-year employment contract with a business located in a population-declining area.
Obtain Local Government Recommendation – Get a recommendation letter from the relevant local government department managing foreign worker policies.
Prepare Required Documents – This includes the standard employment contract, proof of tax payments, and documentation of social insurance coverage.
Visit the Immigration or Foreign Affairs Office – Submit your ‘Application for Change of Residency Status.’
Review and Approval – After consultation with the Ministry of Justice and local authorities, await approval for your residency status change.
Register Your Residence – Register your actual place of residence and employment with the local authorities post-approval.

5. Scoring Criteria for E-7-4R

The E-7-4R uses a similar points system as the E-7-4 visa; however, additional points are awarded for working in designated areas.

6. Examples of Designated Population Declining Areas (As of 2025)

Gangwon Province: Taebaek, Jeongseon, Yeongwol
Chungcheongbuk-do: Jecheon, Danyang, Yeongdong
Jeollabuk-do: Gochang, Namwon, Sunchang
Gyeongsangbuk-do: Andong, Sangju, Mungyeong
Jeollanam-do: Wando, Haenam, Goheung

7. Benefits After the Change

Potential to upgrade to an F-2-R (Region-Specific Residency) visa with continuous employment.
Option to bring family under the F-3-3R category, conditional on residency in the same area.
An initial stay of three years, with the possibility of extending it in the same region.
Additional recognition for long-term settlement with tax and social insurance contributions.

8. Conclusion

The E-7-4R visa offers skilled workers an excellent opportunity for long-term residency as they contribute to industries in population-declining regions. Current E-7-4 holders should consider transitioning to this visa by planning for three years of employment within a designated area.

This guide is based on the Ministry of Justice’s residency manual as of September 2025. Please note that eligibility criteria and designated regions may change annually.

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