E-7-1 visa,start with the requirements

A guide to professional employment
that considers the candidate, employer and intended role together.

Not based ona single condition

Four areas to review together

01

Occupation & actual duties

Check whether the actual work fits a permitted E-7-1 occupation and review its specific criteria.

02

Education & experience

Review education, field of study, experience and qualifications against the occupation’s criteria, including any applicable exceptions.

03

Employer requirements

Review the business activities, workforce and employer requirements relevant to the occupation.

04

Contract & salary criteria

Set out the duties and contract terms, then check the salary rules and occupation-specific exceptions applicable at the time of application.

View the official 2026 E-7 salary notice

Prepare a clear picture before consultation

These points help prepare for consultation. Confirm the actual application documents for your application type and circumstances.

Candidate information

  • Current immigration status and period of stay
  • Education, major and relevant work experience
  • Intended role and preferred start date

Employer & vacancy information

  • Business activities and work location
  • Actual duties and required capabilities
  • Contract terms, including pay and working hours

A practical preparation path

  1. 01

    Review the role & criteria

    Review actual duties alongside candidate and employer requirements.

  2. 02

    Prepare terms & information

    Clarify employment terms and prepare the information to be checked.

  3. 03

    Confirm the application route

    Check the appropriate issuance or status-change procedure for the situation.

  4. 04

    Check the outcome & work conditions

    Review the outcome and permitted work conditions before proceeding.

Recruitment guidance for employers

E-7-1: common questions

Does a degree alone qualify me for E-7-1?

A degree alone does not determine eligibility. Review occupation-specific criteria, actual duties, education, experience and employer requirements together.

Are E-7-1 and E-9 the same visa?

They are different employment categories. The work and applicable systems differ, so check each category’s official guidance rather than comparing names or pay alone.

Can I start work immediately if I am already in Korea?

First confirm whether your current status permits the intended work. A signed contract alone is not enough; check any required permission or status-change procedures.

Checked 26 Oct 2026 · Korea Visa Portal / Korea Immigration Service

E-7-1: where should you start?

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