Korean E-7 Visa: Complete Guide on Family Invitation and F-3 Visa Procedures
The E-7 visa is one of the most common work visas in Korea for foreigners engaged in specific professional activities. It is essential for those employed in various fields such as chefs, duty-free store workers, IT professionals, and more. This post will walk you through the process of inviting your family to Korea using an E-7 visa and the necessary steps for obtaining an F-3 dependent visa.
What is the E-7 Visa?
The E-7 visa is a work visa issued to foreign nationals who wish to work in Korea in specific occupations. Some common roles eligible for the E-7 visa include:
- Chefs
- Duty-free store employees
- IT specialists
It is typically granted to those with a stable employment contract in Korea, allowing them to legally work in a designated profession.
Family Invitation Eligibility for E-7 Visa Holders
Holders of the E-7 visa are permitted to invite certain family members to Korea, although it is limited to specific relationships. The eligible family members include:
- Spouse
- Minor children (under the age of 18)
Unfortunately, parents or adult children are not eligible for this invitation. The F-3 dependent visa is used for inviting family members, but only the E-7 visa holder can initiate this process, not the employer.
Can F-3 Visa Holders Work in Korea?
F-3 visa holders, such as spouses or minor children of E-7 visa holders, are allowed to work in Korea, but only in limited job categories. One of the most common roles for F-3 visa holders is English teaching. However, job opportunities are limited, and separate work visas may be required for other types of employment.
Procedure for Family Invitation
To invite family members to Korea, the E-7 visa holder must follow specific procedures. This includes applying for a visa at the South Korean embassy or consulate in the foreign country. The following documents are typically required:
- Original and copy of the family member’s passport
- Passport-sized photo
- Visa application form
- Birth certificate and family relationship certificate
- Proof of income and employment of the E-7 visa holder (income statements, employment certificate, etc.)
The entire process usually takes around 14 days, and once the visa is granted, family members can enter Korea.
Responsibilities of the E-7 Visa Holder
It is important to note that the E-7 visa holder is responsible for the entire family invitation process. The employer is not involved in this procedure. After the family enters Korea, they must register as foreign residents within 90 days at the local immigration office. Failure to do so can result in fines.
Limitations for Adult Children and Parents
Unfortunately, adult children and parents cannot be invited using the F-3 visa. If adult children wish to work or stay in Korea, they must apply for a different visa, which may be more difficult to obtain.
Conclusion
The E-7 visa allows foreigners to work in Korea, and with the proper procedures, they can invite their spouse and minor children to join them through the F-3 visa. However, there are limitations on who can be invited, and the family members’ work opportunities are restricted to certain job categories. Proper preparation of documents and timely registration at the immigration office will ensure a smooth process for both the E-7 visa holder and their family.