E-7 vs E-9: which South Korean visa is right for you?
Two Korean work visas: the E-7 for skilled foreign professionals in designated occupations, and the E-9 for non-professional employment under the Employment Permit System.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) (E-7) | E-9 Non-Professional Employment (EPS) (E-9) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | Professionals and skilled workers hired for one of the government-designated E-7 occupations. | Workers from EPS partner countries filling low-skilled jobs in manufacturing, agriculture, fishing and more. |
| Government cost | ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry) | ~₩80,000 / US$60 plus EPS programme costs |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks after issuance confirmation | ~several months (after EPS roster matching) |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 years, renewable | Up to 4 years 10 months (extendable to ~9 years 8 months) |
| Where to apply | Outside Korea (consulate) after employer obtains a confirmation of visa issuance | Outside Korea via the Employment Permit System (EPS) of the partner country |
| Work rights | Work only for the sponsoring employer in the designated occupation | Work only in the assigned sector for the matched employer |
| Pathway to PR | Counts toward F-2 residence and F-5 permanent residence after qualifying years and points. | Limited; high-skilled E-9 workers may transition to E-7-4 and onward to F-2/F-5. |
Which is right for you?
E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) (E-7)
Professionals and skilled workers hired for one of the government-designated E-7 occupations.
Full E-7 guide →E-9 Non-Professional Employment (EPS) (E-9)
Workers from EPS partner countries filling low-skilled jobs in manufacturing, agriculture, fishing and more.
Full E-9 guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, E-7 or E-9?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) (E-7) is the lowest at ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, E-7 or E-9?
Indicatively E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) (E-7) is the quickest at ~2-4 weeks after issuance confirmation. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between E-7 and E-9?
E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) (E-7) is for professionals and skilled workers hired for one of the government-designated E-7 occupations. E-9 Non-Professional Employment (EPS) (E-9) is for workers from EPS partner countries filling low-skilled jobs in manufacturing, agriculture, fishing and more.