If a foreigner preparing for employment in Korea with a D-10 (Job Seeking) visa successfully finds a professional job, he or she can change his or her status of residence to an E-7 (Specialized Activities, Professional) visa.
This article is based on the Ministry of Justice’s “Foreigners’ Residence Guide Manual (December 2025).”
E-7 is notified by the Minister of Justice.85 professional and semi-professional occupationsThis is a work visa that is allowed if a foreigner who falls under the following conditions has entered into an employment contract with a domestic company.
✔ Simple labor does not apply.
✔ Must be included in the designated occupation code.
| division | Requirements | Checklist |
|---|---|---|
| Status of stay | D-10 Legally in residence | Apply before expiration of period of stay |
| Occupation | Applies to 85 occupations announced by the Ministry of Justice | Whether the job description matches or not |
| Education | Bachelor's degree or higher in job field or meets experience requirements | Relevance between major and job |
| personal history | Meet the required experience for each job type | Proof of employment required |
| wages | More than a certain percentage of GNI per capita in the previous year | Based on employment contract |
| employment company | Normal business registration company | Check for tax delinquency/violation |
| employment contract | Contract for more than 1 year is recommended | Working conditions are clear |
※ Wage requirements and detailed job requirements vary by job type.
E-7 occupations are confirmed based on the “Appendix to the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Control Act” and the occupation code notified by the Ministry of Justice.
Verification Procedure
① Access HiKorea
② Information by residence status → E-7 specific activities
③ Check the notified occupation code
④ Compare your job and job description
important points
It is judged based on “actual work performed” rather than job title.
For IT developers, mechanical engineers, trade experts, etc., it is necessary to check the detailed occupation code.
① Conclusion of employment contract
→ ② Preparation of corporate documents (business registration certificate, tax payment certificate, etc.)
→ ③ Prepare documents regarding your educational background and experience
→ ④ Apply by visiting the competent immigration office
→ ⑤ Permission decision after review
✔ Application fee: 100,000 won for change of residence status
✔ Possibility of rejection upon departure after application
Mismatch between job and major
Not meeting wage requirements
Misapplication of occupation code
Failure to meet corporate employment requirements
Professional visas are not automatically changed based on “successful employment” alone.
Screening for job suitability is the most important.
You will increase your chances of approval by deciding on a target occupation from the D-10 stage and preparing in advance ✔ major-related internship ✔ securing career proof ✔ job code analysis.
If you need expert advice, WorkOn VisaHub is here to help.
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