How to Get an E-7 Visa as a Natural Science Professional (2112) in Korea

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If you are a foreign researcher in physics, mathematics, statistics, or earth sciences planning to work in Korea, you will likely apply under:

👉 E-7-1 (Specialty Occupation) – Natural Science Professional (2112)

This category covers professionals conducting theoretical and applied research in natural sciences.

1️⃣ Who Qualifies as a Natural Science Professional (2112)?

According to the Immigration Manual:

A person who conducts research on theories and applications in natural science fields and works at science-related companies

Typical Job Examples:

• Pure / Applied Mathematician
• Statistician (Applied / Mathematical Statistics)
• Geophysicist
• Seismologist
• Ocean Scientist
• Earth Science Specialist

2️⃣ E-7 (2112) Eligibility Checklist

Requirement	Details	Status
Visa Type	E-7-1 (Professional)	☐
Job Code	2112	☐
Degree	Bachelor’s or higher (field-related)	☐
Experience	General E-7 standard applies	☐
Employment Contract	Required	☐
Government Recommendation	Required for SMEs (MSS/KOSME)	☐
Salary Level	Must meet E-7 minimum income threshold	☐

3️⃣ When Is E-3 (Research) More Appropriate?

If the employer is:

• A government-funded research institute
• A defense-related research institute
• A national/public research organization

E-3 (Research) may be more suitable .

Corporate R&D positions typically fall under E-7 (2112).

4️⃣ Process: Change D-10 to E-7 (2112)

How to change D-10 to E-7

① Sign employment contract
→ ② Confirm job-code alignment (2112)
→ ③ Obtain recommendation letter (if SME)
→ ④ Apply for change of status at Immigration
→ ⑤ Approval → Start employment

5️⃣ Required Documents (General E-7 Structure)

• Application form
• Passport
• Fee
• Employment contract
• Degree certificate
• Work experience certificate (if applicable)
• Business registration certificate
• Recommendation letter (if applicable)
• ARC (if changing status inside Korea)

⚠️ Common Mistakes

• Job description too vague
• Degree unrelated to science field
• Misclassification as marketing/statistical survey work
• Company research center not properly registered

Precise job description drafting significantly improves approval rates.

Final Advice

The E-7 (2112) visa is designed for advanced scientific researchers in private sector R&D environments.

Accurate job code classification and document preparation are critical for approval.

If you are unsure whether your position qualifies under 2112 or E-3, consult experts before filing.