E-7 Specially Designated Activities Visa
For foreign professionals and other qualifying personnel employed in activities specially designated by the Minister of Justice.
Visa Overview
The E-7 Visa applies to employment under a contract with a Korean public or private institution in activities specially designated by the Minister of Justice. Requirements vary by subcategory and occupation code, including applicant qualifications, wage standards, employer conditions, and occupation-specific criteria.
Processing Time
Varies by Application
Processing time depends on application type, case facts, and document review.
Stay Period
Up to 3 Years at a Time*
This is the general maximum at one time. Specified exceptional routes may allow up to five years.
Work Activity
Specially Designated Employment
Activities must remain within the approved scope.
Government Fee
Varies by Application Type
Confirm the current official fee for the exact immigration procedure before filing.
Important Notice
The general E-7 maximum that may be granted at one time is three years. A five-year maximum applies only to specified recommended excellent talent and certain workers or researchers in designated special zones. Requirements differ by subcategory and occupation code.
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Eligibility
General Requirements
The exact requirements depend on the application route and the facts of each case. These are general points listed for this status.
- ✓Meet the qualification requirements applicable to the specific activity or profession.
- ✓Have a qualifying contract, appointment, or engagement with an eligible Korean institution or employer.
- ✓Meet any occupation-specific, licensing, wage, recommendation, or employer requirements that apply.
Documents
Common Document Categories
Check the competent authority’s latest instructions for documents required for your specific application.
- ✓Application form, passport, and resident card where applicable.
- ✓Employment, appointment, or engagement contract.
- ✓Degree, career, license, or qualification evidence applicable to the activity.
- ✓Employer or institution establishment/registration documents.
- ✓Recommendation and occupation-specific supporting documents where required.
Process
General Application Steps
These general steps describe the applicant’s process, not a filing service provided by Modical.
- 1
Confirm the correct status, subcategory, and activity.
- 2
Review applicant qualifications.
- 3
Review employer/institution and contract requirements.
- 4
Prepare supporting documents.
- 5
Submit the appropriate visa or stay application.
- 6
Manage post-approval workplace/activity changes under the applicable rules.
FAQ
Common questions
Is the maximum stay period guaranteed?+
No. The stated period is the official maximum that may be granted at one time. The actual grant may be shorter depending on the contract and immigration review.
Can I change employers or workplaces freely?+
Not necessarily. The applicable permission or notification procedure must be checked before or after the change as required.