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South Korea – Work Permits and Working Legally

Working Legally in South Korea

It is necessary for expats to obtain a work permit in order to work legally in South Korea.

Who Must Make the Application?

The expat’s employer is responsible for applying for the work permit on behalf of the expat

There are certain categories of expats who are exempt from the requirement to obtain a work permit in South Korea, such as diplomatic staff, members of international organizations, and short-term business visitors.

Types of Work Permits for Expats in South Korea


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There are several types of work permits available for expats in South Korea, including:

  • E-1 (Professor) Visa: For individuals engaged in university-level teaching or research
  • E-2 (Language Instructor) Visa: For individuals engaged in language teaching
  • E-3 (Researcher) Visa: For individuals engaged in research activities
  • E-4 (Technical Instructor) Visa: For individuals engaged in technical or industrial training
  • E-5 (Professional) Visa: For individuals engaged in professional activities
  • H-1 (Working Visit) Visa: For individuals engaged in short-term business activities.

Work Permit Application Process in South Korea

The procedure to apply for a work permit in South Korea involves several steps:

  1. The expat’s employer submits the application to the Korean immigration authorities, along with the required documents.

  2. The immigration authorities review the application and may request additional information or documents.

  3. If the application is approved, the expat will receive the work permit, which must be presented to the immigration authorities upon arrival in South Korea.

The processing time for a work permit application in South Korea varies depending on the type of visa and the circumstances of the individual case. It typically takes several weeks to several months to process a work permit application in South Korea.

Work Permit Documents in South Korea

The following documents are typically required when applying for a work permit in South Korea:

  • Passport and visa application form
  • Certificate of Employment or Offer Letter from the expat’s employer
  • Proof of qualifications, such as diplomas or certificates
  • Proof of financial support, such as bank statements
  • Criminal background check
  • Medical certificate.

Work Permit Costs in South Korea

The costs involved in applying for a work permit in South Korea include fees for the visa application and any additional fees for medical examinations, criminal background checks, and other required documents. The exact fees will depend on the type of visa and the individual circumstances of the case.

Reliable Information on Working Legally in South Korea

Expats can obtain reliable information on working legally in South Korea by visiting the website of the Korean immigration authorities or by contacting a local immigration lawyer or consultant. Some useful websites include:


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