Complete Explanation for E-7 Skilled Workers
Foreign nationals working in Korea under the E-7 Skilled Worker Visa must follow strict immigration rules when changing or adding a workplace. Depending on the occupation, some workers must file a post-report within 15 days, while others must obtain prior permission before starting work.
This guide explains the reporting occupations, permission-required occupations, qualifications, procedures, and required documents, based on the official immigration guidelines shown in the attached images.
1. Occupations Requiring Post-Report (Report Within 15 Days)
Foreign E-7 visa holders belonging to specific occupations may change or add a workplace with post-reporting only. These workers must report the change to the Immigration Office within 15 days of starting work at the new workplace.
⚠ Important Notice (Chefs & Cooks)
Chefs and cooks may work at an additional workplace only if the working hours do not exceed one-third of the working hours at the original workplace.
2. Occupations Requiring Prior Permission
(You must receive permission before starting work.)
The following occupations must obtain prior approval from the authorities before the worker can begin employment at the new workplace. These involve personnel limits or require more strict management due to industry characteristics.
✔ Occupations Requiring Prior Permission
- Mechanical Engineering Technician (2351)
- Drafting Technician (2395)
- Overseas Sales (2742)
- Online Product Seller
- Designer (285)
- Sales Office Worker (31215)
- Chef / Cook (441)
- Customer Service Clerk (3991)
- Hotel Receptionist (3922)
- Medical Coordinator (S3922)
- Aquaculture Technician (6301)
- Welding Worker (7430)
- Ship Electrician (76212)
- Ship Painter (78369)
- Aircraft Parts Manufacturing Technician (S8417)
- Power Transmission Technician (76231)
- Automotive Parts Manufacturing (S85411)
These occupations must apply for Workplace Change Permission before work begins.
3. Eligibility Requirements for Workplace Change Permission
To receive permission, the E-7 visa holder must:
- Already possess a valid E-7 visa and be legally employed in Korea
- Meet the required qualification and job criteria for the new workplace
- Obtain the consent of the original employer
✔ Exceptions
The original employer’s consent is not required if:
- The company has shut down (closure)
- The employer has suspended operations
- The employer has delayed wages or violated contract terms
In these cases, supporting documents must be provided.
4. Reporting Procedure (Post-Report)
✔ Reporting DeadlineMust be reported within 15 days after the reason for change occurs
✔ Where to Report
Immigration Office / Immigration Branch Office
✔ Method
In-person visit is required (passport sticker must be attached)
Proxy reporting is allowed
5. Required Documents
📌 A. Documents for Post-Report
(Workplace change reporting)
- Integrated Application Form (Form No. 34–34-2)
- Passport and Alien Registration Card
- Employment recommendation from the relevant ministry or a document proving the necessity of employment
- Employment contract
Consent letter from the previous employer
- Can be replaced with proof of closure, suspension, or unpaid wages
- Business registration certificate of the new company
📌 B. Documents for Prior Permission
(Workplace change permission)
- Evidence of business closure, unpaid wages, or tax reduction notice (if applicable)
- Consent letter from the former employer
- Documents verifying the qualifications of the new company
- Submitted according to the required document list for issuing the Certificate of Visa Status Recognition
🟦 Conclusion
Understanding whether your E-7 workplace change falls under post-report or prior permission is essential to maintaining your legal work status in Korea.
Foreign workers should carefully check their occupation category, prepare the required documents, and adhere to the 15-day reporting deadline to avoid penalties or visa issues.
For more information on the E-7 Skilled Worker Visa, workplace change rules, or immigration requirements in Korea, continue exploring our detailed visa guides.
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