Corporate Executive (1120) Visa in Korea – Is It Possible for Foreigners?

This article reflects the latest immigration guidelines as of December 2025.

If you received an offer to become a CEO, executive director, or corporate strategy head in Korea, you may wonder: “Can I really get a visa for this position?”

Corporate Executive (1120) refers to top-level management responsible for overall company strategy and performance. This is not a mid-level manager role. Immigration authorities apply stricter review standards.

Here is what job seekers need to know.

1. Scope of Corporate Executive (1120)

1. Overall corporate strategy and performance management
2. Final decision authority over finance, HR, and operations
3. CEO, Representative Director, Vice President, Executive Director
4. Legal registration as executive or equivalent authority

Department heads or team managers usually do not qualify.

2. Applicable Visa Type

1. E-7 (Professional / Specific Activities)
2. Change of status: D-10 (Job Seeking) → E-7
3. Possible review under Top-Tier visa categories

Title alone is not sufficient. Company size and salary matter.

3. Core Approval Requirements

Proof of executive authority

• Registered corporate officer
• Legal decision-making power

Company legitimacy

• Active business operations
• Financial statements
• Revenue and workforce

Salary level

• Generally above national income benchmark
• Executive-level compensation

Professional background

• Industry leadership experience
• Global business track record

Immigration evaluates whether the executive role is genuine and essential.

4. D-10 to E-7 Change Process

1. Sign employment contract
2. Complete executive registration
3. Confirm salary structure
4. Apply for change of status
5. Submit corporate and financial documentation

Nominal appointment letters are not enough.

5. Common Rejection Cases

1. Small family-owned entities
2. Paper companies with no revenue
3. Unpaid honorary positions
4. Executive title without real authority

Substance is more important than form.

Corporate Executive (1120) roles are legally possible for foreign professionals, but screening is strict. Especially for first-time employment in Korea, documentation must be carefully structured.

Before applying, verify:

• Corporate financial strength
• Salary standards
• Legal executive authority

WorkOn VisaHub provides:

Pre-assessment → Documentation strategy → Visa change application support

Start preparing today.

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