E7 Visa: Your Gateway to Professional Work in Korea
The E7 visa allows foreigners to legally work in South Korea in specialized fields such as IT, engineering, marketing, and design. With more than 80 eligible job categories, it is known as a visa that can be obtained if you meet either the educational or work experience requirement. However, from 2025, minimum salary thresholds and some procedures have been reinforced—so preparation is key.
Who Can Apply
You are eligible for the E7 visa if you meet one of the following conditions:
| Eligibility Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Master’s Degree | Master’s in a relevant field |
| Bachelor’s + Experience | Bachelor’s + 1+ years of relevant experience |
| Experience Only | 5+ years of work experience in the field |
- Korean university graduates can apply regardless of major
- Top 200 university grads or those with 1+ years at a top 500 global company may receive waivers
2025 Salary Requirements
Minimum salary thresholds by visa type (effective 2025):
| Visa Type | Annual Minimum | Monthly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| E-7-1 (Professional) | 28.67 million KRW | ≈ 2.39 million KRW |
| E-7-2 (Semi-professional) | 25.15 million KRW | ≈ 2.10 million KRW |
| E-7-4 (Skilled worker) | 26.00 million KRW | ≈ 2.17 million KRW |
The salary must be clearly stated in the employment contract. Failing to meet this requirement will result in visa denial.
Company Requirements
Employers hiring E7 visa holders must meet the following requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Korean Staff | At least 5 Korean employees |
| Insurance Registration | Must be enrolled in all 4 insurances (pension, health, employment, accident) |
| No Tax Delinquency | No outstanding national/local tax payments |
| Employment Contract | Must clearly state salary, working hours, and contract period |
Note: Some industries may have exceptions or additional review standards.
Application Process
- Sign an employment contract and gather documents (degree, work history, criminal background check, etc.)
- The employer submits a Certificate for Visa Issuance (CVI) request to immigration
- Receive visa issuance approval number
- Apply for the visa at the Korean consulate in your home country
- Enter Korea and register for an Alien Registration Card
If you’re already in Korea, you may apply via status change.
Popular E7 Professions
| Profession Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| IT Developers | Software engineers, web developers |
| Marketing & Sales | Global marketing, export sales |
| Hospitality Management | Hotel managers, front desk operations |
| Designers | UX/UI, fashion, industrial design |
Each job category has specific screening criteria, so always check before applying.
Your Korean Career Awaits
The E7 visa is a key pathway to work legally in South Korea as a foreign professional. You only need to meet one of the core requirements—education or experience—and if your documents are in order, your approval chances are strong.
Before applying, double-check employer qualifications, salary minimums, and job eligibility. When in doubt, consult immigration authorities or a visa specialist for tailored advice.