E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities)
Professionals and skilled workers hired for one of the government-designated E-7 occupations.
The E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) is a South Korean work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry)) and processing time (~2-4 weeks after issuance confirmation), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) is for
Professionals and skilled workers hired for one of the government-designated E-7 occupations.
Counts toward F-2 residence and F-5 permanent residence after qualifying years and points.
E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) - eligibility criteria
- Job offer in one of the designated E-7 occupations
- Relevant degree plus experience, or substantial experience
- Salary meeting the minimum threshold (linked to GNI)
- Employer meets ratio limits of foreign to Korean staff
- Korea Immigration confirmation of visa issuance
E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) (South Korea) is ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry), with an indicative processing time of ~2-4 weeks after issuance confirmation. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at HiKorea (Korea Immigration).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside Korea (consulate) after employer obtains a confirmation of visa issuance |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 years, renewable |
| Work rights | Work only for the sponsoring employer in the designated occupation |
| Study rights | Study allowed with permission |
| Government fee | ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry) |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks after issuance confirmation |
| Route to PR | Counts toward F-2 residence and F-5 permanent residence after qualifying years and points. |
Pathway & next steps
Counts toward F-2 residence and F-5 permanent residence after qualifying years and points.
Many applicants also compare D-10 · D-10 Job Seeker / Job-Seeking, F-2-7 · F-2-7 Points-Based Residence, D-7 · D-7 Intra-Company Transfer. 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 E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) pitfalls we fix
E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) - frequently asked questions
How much does the E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) cost?
The E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) government fee is ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at HiKorea (Korea Immigration) before applying.
How long does the E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-4 weeks after issuance confirmation. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities) lead to permanent residence?
Counts toward F-2 residence and F-5 permanent residence after qualifying years and points.
Can I work on the E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities)?
Work rights: Work only for the sponsoring employer in the designated occupation.
Who can apply for the E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities)?
Professionals and skilled workers hired for one of the government-designated E-7 occupations.
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