C-4 Short-Term Employment
People doing short-term paid work such as performances, modelling, lectures or seasonal labour.
The C-4 Short-Term Employment is a South Korean work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~₩53,000 / US$40 single-entry) and processing time (~1-2 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the C-4 Short-Term Employment is for
People doing short-term paid work such as performances, modelling, lectures or seasonal labour.
No direct PR pathway; switch to a long-term work status if continuing.
C-4 Short-Term Employment - eligibility criteria
- Contract or invitation for the short-term activity
- Relevant qualifications or experience for the role
- Sponsoring organisation or employer in Korea
- Activity completed within 90 days
C-4 Short-Term Employment cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the C-4 Short-Term Employment (South Korea) is ~₩53,000 / US$40 single-entry, with an indicative processing time of ~1-2 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at HiKorea (Korea Immigration).
| Type | Short stay |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a Korean embassy or consulate |
| Length of stay | Up to 90 days |
| Work rights | Paid work limited to the approved short-term activity |
| Study rights | No formal study |
| Government fee | ~₩53,000 / US$40 single-entry |
| Processing time | ~1-2 weeks |
| Route to PR | No direct PR pathway; switch to a long-term work status if continuing. |
Pathway & next steps
No direct PR pathway; switch to a long-term work status if continuing.
Many applicants also compare C-3 · C-3 Short-Term Visit (General), E-9 · E-9 Non-Professional Employment (EPS), E-6 · E-6 Arts and Entertainment. Run a free VisaChief check to see which South Korean route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common C-4 Short-Term Employment pitfalls we fix
C-4 Short-Term Employment - frequently asked questions
How much does the C-4 Short-Term Employment cost?
The C-4 Short-Term Employment government fee is ~₩53,000 / US$40 single-entry. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at HiKorea (Korea Immigration) before applying.
How long does the C-4 Short-Term Employment take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-2 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the C-4 Short-Term Employment lead to permanent residence?
No direct PR pathway; switch to a long-term work status if continuing.
Can I work on the C-4 Short-Term Employment?
Work rights: Paid work limited to the approved short-term activity.
Who can apply for the C-4 Short-Term Employment?
People doing short-term paid work such as performances, modelling, lectures or seasonal labour.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official South Korea government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- HiKorea (Korea Immigration) - official South Korea immigration authority