Guide to Living and Farming in Korea for Seasonal Workers (E8 Visa) - Available in 9 Languages⭐

Foreign Interview Preparation Guide: Key Points on Attire, Timing, and Attitude At a Glance, basic etiquette for job interviews at Korean companies includes arriving 10 to 20 minutes before the interview begins, wearing neat, dark-colored business casual attire, and keeping your mobile phone on silent. Making eye contact with the interviewer, answering in a clear tone, and maintaining good posture have a significant impact on the evaluation. Foreign job seekers can also make a good first impression by simply adhering to these three things: attire, timing, and attitude. Hello, this is the Jobploy Recruitment Manager. I frequently receive questions from foreign job seekers in Korea who have interviews coming up, such as "What should I wear?" and "How many minutes early should I arrive?" In this article, we have summarized the key points of interview preparation to answer those questions all at once. What should I wear for a job interview? Dark-colored suits or business casual attire that do not stand out are the safest choice. The key is to project a neat, tidy, and trustworthy impression. It is advisable to avoid flashy accessories and revealing designs. It is recommended to wear a matching set, from neat hair to dress shoes (loafers). If you do not have dress shoes, I recommend simple sneakers with a small logo. [ Business + Casual Attire ] The key point is to give a neat and tidy impression, plus a trustworthy impression. - Wear clothing with neutral colors - Avoid flashy accessories and revealing designs as much as possible [ For men → (Suit or shirt, jacket, slacks) ] - Recommended colors: Black, Navy, Dark Gray - Hairstyle: I recommend a neat style where the bangs are styled upwards rather than down, and not too long. [ For women → (Blouse, Suit or Shirt, Jacket, Slacks) ] - Recommended colors: Black, Navy, Gray, White, Ivory - Hairstyle: Neatly styled updos, a tidy bob, or long hair styled naturally. How many minutes before the interview should I arrive? It is most appropriate to arrive 10 to 20 minutes before the interview starts. Arriving too early may put pressure on the company, while arriving late may be perceived as a lack of time management skills. Checklist for Interview Timing: Avoid drinking and sleeping in the day before the interview, and take care of your condition. If the interview location is a place you are visiting for the first time, check the travel route and estimated travel time the day before. If you need to use a train or intercity bus, book your ticket in advance. We schedule the departure time with about 30 minutes of buffer time compared to the estimated travel time. After arriving, spend 5 to 10 minutes in the restroom checking your attire or catching your breath. Attitude and demeanor evaluated in an interview Interviewers evaluate not only the content of the answers but also posture, facial expressions, and tone of voice comprehensively. For foreign applicants, even if their Korean is not perfect, a serious attitude and confident gaze often lead to a favorable evaluation. The key points are as follows. Sit deeply in the chair, but keep your back slightly against the backrest to maintain an upright posture. When the interviewer speaks, lightly nod your head and listen attentively. When answering, look the interviewer gently in the eye. Finish with a clear tone without trailing off. For questions I don't know the answer to, I honestly reply, "I will learn that part quickly after joining the company." Basic etiquette to observe at an interview The evaluation begins the moment you enter the interview room. Your attitude toward the HR representative, the receptionist, and other waiting candidates may all be subject to observation. When you arrive at the company, greet the HR manager first with a bright expression. Please keep your mobile phone on silent or turned off while waiting for the interview (vibration may also be heard). When entering the interview room, lightly knock before entering, greet with "Hello," and take your seat upon being instructed. When the interview is over, say "Thank you" and exit calmly. Maintain a neat posture until you have completely left the company building. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Q1. My Korean isn't perfect. Is it okay to have the interview? A. In interviews for foreign job postings, a sincere attitude and willingness to communicate are valued more than perfect Korean language skills. If you get stuck while answering, do not panic; instead, ask for a moment to think and answer slowly. You may politely ask the interviewer if you can provide supplementary explanations in English or your native language regarding parts where your Korean is lacking. Q2. What should I do if I think I will be late for the interview? A. As soon as you anticipate being late, you must contact the HR representative directly by phone to explain the situation and inform them of your estimated arrival time. A phone call takes precedence over a text message or email. Upon arrival, apologize politely once again and proceed with the interview. Unauthorized tardiness may result in the cancellation of the interview. Q3. I don't have a suit. What should I wear? A. A suit is not strictly necessary. A combination of a dark-colored shirt or blouse with slacks or neat cotton trousers is sufficient. Please avoid jeans, shorts, flip-flops, and flashy prints. While neat casual attire is often permitted in the food service, logistics, and manufacturing sectors, it is safer to dress at a business casual level to ensure a good first impression. Q4. What is the question you are most frequently asked in interviews? A. The questions frequently asked of foreign job seekers are: ① reason for coming to Korea and plans for the duration of stay, ② current visa type and expiration date, ③ experience learning Korean and level of communication proficiency, ④ previous work experience and reason for leaving, and ⑤ ability to work long-term. It is recommended to prepare answers for these five questions in advance. If you have scheduled an interview, it is recommended to review your resume and practice mock interviews together. Jobflowy's dedicated 1:1 recruitment manager will assist you with everything from resume editing to organizing anticipated interview questions. Check job postings available with your visa, or refer to the employment stories of other foreign job seekers. If you require further consultation, please contact Jobploy. ☎ 02-875-2134 / ✉ support@jobploy.kr

Can I get a job in Korea with an F-1 (Visiting/Cohabiting) visa? (Latest 2026) At a Glance: In principle, employment is not permitted with an F-1 (Visiting/Residency) visa. However, you may legally work by obtaining permission for activities outside the scope of your status of residence if you fall under one of the following five categories: ① ethnic Koreans from China, ② foreign language instructors or teachers for F-1 or F-3 holders, ③ foreign language proofreaders at public institutions, ④ family members (F-1-12) of outstanding talents under the points system (F-2-7), and ⑤ accompanying parents of outstanding talents, investors, or international students. Applications can be made through HiKorea or the competent Immigration Office. What is an F-1 visa? The F-1 (Visiting/Residing) visa is issued to foreign nationals staying in Korea for purposes such as visiting relatives, living with family, supporting dependents, or settling household affairs. The maximum period of stay granted at one time is two years, and it is classified into F-1-5, F-1-12, F-1-13, F-1-16, etc., depending on the specific qualification. In principle, employment and profit-making activities are prohibited, but if certain requirements are met, employment is possible through permission for activities outside the scope of the status of residence (a system that exceptionally permits activities not allowed by the original visa). Activities permitted without separate permission: Taking training courses Taking education at regular educational institutions (elementary, middle, high schools, and universities) is possible without a separate permission procedure to the extent that it does not infringe upon the original purpose of stay (effective June 15, 2009). Since attending school is not subject to permission for activities outside of one's qualification, you can register and take classes immediately. 5 Cases Where You Can Work with an F-1 Visa 1. Permission for Employment Activities of Korean Chinese (E-1 ~ E-7) Among ethnic Koreans of Chinese descent holding an F-1 visa, if they are qualified for employment, activities outside the scope of their visa status are permitted, ranging from Professor (E-1) to Specific Activities (E-7). Required documents division document basic Application form (Attachment No. 34), passport, Alien Registration Card, fee Employment-related Employment recommendation letter from the head of the competent ministry or documents proving the necessity of employment, employment contract Workplace related Business registration certificate Proof of qualification Degree or Certificate 2. Foreign language instructors and teachers holding F-1 or F-3 visas (E-2, E-7) Holders of Visiting/Resident (F-1) and Accompanying (F-3) visas may work as Foreign Language Conversation Instructors (E-2) or Foreign Workforce Teachers (E-7). In this case, additional documents such as degree certificates, criminal background checks, and pre-employment medical examination reports corresponding to the relevant qualification are required. 3. Foreign Language Proofreader at Public Institutions (E-7) Holders of F-1 and F-3 visas may be employed as foreign language proofreaders (E-7) at national agencies and public organizations (local governments, government-invested institutions). Required documents Application form (Attachment No. 34), passport, Alien Registration Card, fee Employment contract Copy of business registration certificate Letter of Recommendation (issued by the head of the relevant institution) Degree Certificate (Original and Copy) 4. Spouse and minor children of outstanding talents under the points system (F-1-12) This applies to cases where individuals have obtained F-1-12 status as the spouse or minor child of a point-based excellent talent (F-2-7) holder. Principle : Employment and profit-making activities are prohibited. Exception : If you meet the employment requirements for professional or semi-professional occupations (E-1 to E-7), you may work by obtaining permission for activities outside the scope of your visa status. Exclusions : Hotel and entertainment workers (E-6-2), skilled workers (E-7-4) Additional documents : All documents required by the relevant status of residence 5. Accompanying parents of top talent, investors, and international students Top talents, investors, and accompanying parents of international students are also eligible for employment if they meet certain conditions. Required documents division document basic Application form (Attachment No. 7), passport, alien registration card, fee Family verification Documents proving family relationship Proof of residence Lease agreement, accommodation confirmation, utility bill payment receipts, etc. Key Summary Table division Target Possible employment range Work permit for ethnic Koreans from China Chinese nationals holding F-1 visas E-1~E-7 Extracurricular Activities Foreign language instructors/teachers F-1, F-3 holders Foreign Language Conversation Instructor (E-2), Foreign Workforce Teacher (E-7) Public institution proofreader F-1, F-3 holders Foreign Language Proofreader (E-7) Point-based excellent talent family F-1-12 holder E-1~E-7 (excluding E-6-2, E-7-4) Top Talent & Investor Accompanying Parents F-1 holder When certain conditions are met Course attendance All F-1 holders Study at a regular educational institution (exemption from permission) Precautions when applying Mandatory Prior Permission : Employment without permission for activities outside your permitted status of residence constitutes illegal employment and may result in fines or deportation. Specific requirements subject to change : Requirements vary depending on the specific visa category (F-1-5, F-1-12, etc.), and Ministry of Justice guidelines are revised frequently. The latest information must be checked on HiKorea. Exclusion of E-6-2 and E-7-4 : For F-1-12, hotel and entertainment workers (E-6-2) and skilled workers (E-7-4) are excluded from eligibility. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Q1. Can I do part-time work with an F-1 visa? A. In principle, employment and profit-making activities are prohibited for F-1 visa holders, so general part-time work is not permitted. You may legally work only if you fall under one of the five cases explained above and have obtained permission for activities outside your status of residence. Unauthorized employment is considered illegal employment and is subject to punishment, so please be sure to check with the competent Immigration Office in advance. Q2. Where do I apply for permission to engage in activities outside the scope of my status of residence? A. You can apply online via HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or by visiting the competent Immigration Office. Required documents vary depending on the application type, but basic requirements include an application form (Attachment No. 34 or 7), passport, Alien Registration Card, fee, and employment contract. Please note that detailed fees and processing times are subject to change based on the latest immigration policies, so please check with HiKorea or the Foreigners Information Center (☎ 1345). Q3. Can I work in a factory if I hold an F-1-12 visa? A. F-1-12 holders (spouses and minor children of outstanding talents under the points system) are permitted to work only in the professional and semi-professional E-1 through E-7 categories; skilled technical personnel (E-7-4) are excluded. Since general manufacturing and production positions (E-9) do not apply, employment in factory field positions is difficult. It is more realistic to seek a professional role that matches your educational background and work experience. Q4. Is it permissible to work as a school administrative assistant while attending a Korean university on an F-1 visa? A. While university studies themselves are permitted without separate permission, paid activities such as on-campus teaching assistantships or student workers may require a separate permit for activities outside the scope of your visa status or a part-time work permit. Please check with the university's Office of International Affairs or the relevant immigration office before proceeding. Q5. I am a Korean-Chinese national. Can I get a job immediately with an F-1 visa? A. Even ethnic Koreans from China holding an F-1 visa are not automatically granted work authorization. To work in the E-1 to E-7 categories, they must meet the necessary employment qualifications (degree, work experience, employment contract, etc.) and obtain permission for activities outside their permitted status of residence by providing a letter of recommendation from the relevant government ministry, documents proving the necessity of employment, an employment contract, a business registration certificate, etc. Since employment eligibility varies significantly depending on your specific F-1 visa category (F-1-5, F-1-12, etc.), it is crucial to accurately verify your qualifications first. If you find the complex visa assessment difficult, consult with an administrative advisor at Jobflowy and check job postings available for your visa on the platform. For more detailed consultation, please contact Jobploy.

Shall we find out if F-3 dependent visa holders can work in Korea? At a Glance, F-3 (dependent) visa holders can also legally work in Korea if they obtain permission for activities outside their permitted status of stay. Spouses of skilled workers (E-1 to E-7) can work in professional occupations and the agriculture, forestry, and livestock industries, while spouses of highly talented individuals can work in almost all sectors, excluding restricted fields. Starting April 22, 2026, the procedures will be significantly simplified with the introduction of special provisions for comprehensive permission and online applications. What is an F-3 visa? The F-3 (Delta) visa is a status of residence issued to the spouses and minor children of foreigners legally residing in Korea. It is available to family members of holders of various statuses of residence, ranging from Culture & Arts (D-1) to Specific Activities (E-7), Residence (F-2), Overseas Koreans (F-4), and Visiting Employment (H-2). However, persons without a spouse and accompanying family members of holders of Technical Training (D-3) status are excluded from eligibility for F-3 issuance. 4 Pathways to Employment with an F-3 Visa There are four main ways for F-3 holders to work in Korea. division Target Possible employment range Permission for professional spouse's extracurricular activities Adult spouses of E-1~E-7 (excluding E-6-2), E-7-4, F-2, F-4, and H-2 visa holders Professional occupations (E-1~E-7) + Agriculture, Forestry, and Livestock Special provisions for spouses of outstanding talents Adult spouses of Master's (D-2-3) and Doctoral (D-2-4) students, and persons with E-1, E-3, E-4, and E-5 professional qualifications All activities outside of restricted employment fields Foreign language proofreaders at public institutions F-1, F-3 holders Foreign language proofreaders (E-7) at national agencies, local governments, and government-invested institutions Mathematics at a regular educational institution All F-3 holders Elementary, middle, high school, and university education (exemption from permission) 1. Permission for professional spouse's extracurricular activities This applies to the adult spouses of holders of Professional Foreign Worker status (E-1–E-7, excluding E-6–2), Skilled Worker status (E-7–4), Resident (F-2), Overseas Korean (F-4), or Visiting Employment (H-2) status. Fields of Employment Professional fields (excluding E-1~E-7 and E-6-2) Agriculture, forestry, and livestock farming within the unskilled labor sector (within the H-2 employment scope) Permission is granted for up to one year within your period of stay, and if an employment contract has been concluded, it is limited to the duration of the employment contract within your period of stay. Required documents Standard employment contract Business registration certificate or corporate registration certificate Copy of employer's ID Proof of Korean language proficiency (TOPIK Level 2 or Social Integration Program Level 2 or higher) Proof of completion of Early Adaptation Program (waived until the relevant program is available) If you intend to engage in specific activities (E-7), the guidelines for the issuance of the E-7 visa approval certificate apply, and additional documents are required for activities in the unskilled labor sector. 2. Special provisions for spouses of outstanding talents This is a special provision applicable to adult spouses of domestic Master's (D-2-3) and Doctoral (D-2-4) students, as well as Professor (E-1), Researcher (E-3), Technical Guidance (E-4), and Professional (E-5) holders. All activities are permitted, excluding the restricted fields listed below. Fields where employment is restricted Gambling business (gambling, etc.) Karaoke bar business, entertainment bar business Businesses that violate good morals Businesses Prohibited from Entry or Employment of Youth Private tutoring activities Other fields where the Minister of Justice deems employment restrictions necessary 3. Foreign Language Proofreader at Public Institutions (E-7) Holders of Visiting/Resident (F-1) or Accompanying (F-3) visas may be employed as Foreign Language Proofreaders (E-7) at national agencies and public organizations (local governments, government-invested institutions). Required documents Application form (Attachment No. 34), passport and alien registration card, fee Employment contract Copy of business registration certificate Letter of recommendation from the head of the relevant institution Degree Certificate (Original and Copy) 4. Changes effective April 22, 2026 Starting April 22, 2026, the comprehensive permit special provisions and online application system will be implemented, significantly simplifying the procedures. Existing method: Employment contract → Permission for activities outside the scope of residence status → Employment New Procedure (Special Provision) Permission for Activities Outside of Comprehensive Status of Stay → Employment Contract and Employment → Reporting upon Start and End of Employment Submission documents step document How to apply First comprehensive license Application form, original and copy of passport, Alien Registration Card, fee Visit or online (online from April 22, 2026) Report of commencement of employment Business registration certificate or corporate registration certificate Online only Report of termination of employment No separate documents required Online only Important precautions to observe Report within 15 days of the start and end of employment. Failure to report will result in the revocation of your license. If you work at multiple locations, you must report each one individually. You must also report any changes to contract terms, such as extending the contract period. If you have worked until the expiration date of the employment contract, you may omit the termination report. Activities permitted without separate permission Receiving education at regular educational institutions (elementary, middle, high schools, and universities) is possible without a separate permission procedure, provided that it does not infringe upon the original purpose of stay. This is a system that has been in effect since June 15, 2009. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Q1. Can F-3 visa holders work immediately without separate permission? A. No. Employment is not permitted with the F-3 visa itself, and you must obtain permission for activities outside the scope of your status of stay. Starting April 22, 2026, a special provision for comprehensive permission will be implemented, allowing you to work simply by filing a report without having to reapply for each individual employment case once permission is granted. Q2. Can I work part-time at a restaurant or convenience store with an F-3 visa? A. General unskilled labor is not permitted. For spouses of professionals, unskilled labor is limited to agriculture, forestry, and livestock farming; however, if you qualify for the special exemption for spouses of outstanding talent, you may work in industries excluding restricted sectors (such as entertainment, gambling, and vice industries). You must verify your specific situation with the competent Immigration Office. Q3. Where can I apply online starting from April 2026? A. Online applications will be available via HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr). The initial application for a comprehensive permit can be made both in person and online, while reports of commencement and termination of employment will be accepted online only. Please check the announcements on HiKorea around the implementation date for specific online application procedures. Q4. What happens if I do not report a change of workplace or resignation? A. You are required to report within 15 days of starting or ending employment. If failure to report is detected, your permission for activities outside your permitted status of residence will be revoked. Even if you work at multiple locations, you must report separately for each workplace. It is important to strictly adhere to the deadline, as this may affect future changes or extensions of your status of residence. The F-3 visa opens the way to legally work in Korea, provided the conditions are met. However, since the scope of permitted employment varies depending on your spouse's status of residence, individual verification is required. Check out job postings for foreigners available with your visa on Jobploy. If you are concerned about the complex procedures for permission to engage in activities outside your visa status, you can consult with an administrative advisor at Jobploy. For further consultation, please contact Jobploy. ☎ 02-875-2134 / ✉ support@jobploy.kr

Hello! This is JOBPLOY, a recruitment platform for foreigners. To all international students dreaming of a new beginning in Korea, a special gift prepared by the Seoul Metropolitan Government to make your life in Seoul more enjoyable and enriching! is recruiting new participants. This program is designed to help international students currently enrolled in or who have graduated from universities or colleges in Seoul adapt to life in Korea, and it is operated with a diverse range of programs and a well-structured program. This recruitment is conducted in two tracks based on eligibility: 'Cohort 3 (Adaptation Class)' and 'Freshman Class (Buddy Program).' Check which program fits you best and apply right now! [Recruitment 1] 30-Day Seoul Tour, 3rd Session (Adaptation Class) This is an intensive care program for international students who dream of stable settlement and employment in Korea after graduation. Eligibility : International students currently enrolled in universities (including junior colleges and graduate schools) located in Seoul International students residing in Seoul within 2 years of graduating from a university in Seoul (legal residents) Operation Period: May – June 2026 (approximately 2 months) Key Benefits: Enhancement of Employment Competencies: Training in resume writing, business etiquette, and the use of practical tools Providing cultural experiences and networking opportunities Recognition of 4 hours of Ministry of Justice Social Integration Program completion and issuance of certificate 👉🏻 Apply for the 30-Day Seoul Tour, 3rd Session [Recruitment 2] 30-Day Tour of Seoul (Freshman Class Buddy Program) This is an intensive exchange program where new international students who have recently arrived integrate into life in Seoul together with Korean university student 'buddies'. Eligibility: International Students: Currently enrolled students at universities in Seoul who have been in Korea for less than one year Domestic University Student: A Korean student (Buddy) currently enrolled in a university in Seoul Operation Period: May – November 2026 (approximately 7 months) Main points: Team Matching with a Korean Buddy (2 Koreans : 5~7 Foreigners) Performing step-by-step missions in areas such as daily life (public transportation, markets), culture (walking trails, trendy spots), and self-reliance (libraries, employment and startup facilities). Upon completion, a certificate of completion issued in the name of the Mayor and volunteer hours for domestic buddies are recognized. 👉🏻 Apply for the 30-Day Seoul Tour Beginner Class Common Recruitment Information and Application Methods Application Period: April 1, 2026 (Wed) – April 14, 2026 (Tue) (14 days) Selection Process: Submission of Application → Submission of 1-Minute Self-Introduction Video (Selected Candidates Only) → Final Selection How to Apply: Click "Apply" in the text or scan the QR code on the poster and submit the online application form. Contact: Email: 30dayseoul@gmail.com Instagram: @30daysinseoul JOBPLOY will do its utmost to help foreign job seekers successfully start their lives in Korea and ultimately achieve successful employment. Jobploy will always be with you so that your dreams can beautifully blossom in Seoul!

Hello. This is JobPloy, a recruitment platform for foreigners. For international students looking to build a career in Korea, the biggest concerns are undoubtedly 'visa' and 'work experience.' Recently, Jobflowy partnered with Daelim University, and I attended an information session for the [E-7-1 Employment Linkage Program for International Students Residing in Korea] , which allows you to catch two birds with one stone. Along with the intense excitement at the event, I will pinpoint and summarize the key practical benefits for international students. Daerim University X Jobploy, the first step toward employment success Thirteen international students who registered in advance through Jobploy attended this information session. A Jobploy representative personally accompanied them to the site to provide detailed guidance, ensuring that students could clearly understand administrative procedures and program details that might otherwise be difficult to grasp. As the attending students reviewed the upcoming internship process and the list of partner companies, they responded very positively, describing it as a "concrete opportunity that resolves the uncertainty surrounding employment in Korea." So, what exactly was it about the program that led to such high satisfaction? Why is the E-7-1 Job Placement Program Special? This program is highly reliable as it is operated with government support, and it is a one-year project that combines [education + practical training] to help international students settle stably into Korean companies. 1. Systematic 2-step process Step 1 (6 months): Conduct specialized job training within the university Step 2 (6 months): Perform corporate-linked practical internship 2. Exceptional Participation Benefits Free tuition for the entire course: You can build your capabilities without any financial burden. Financial Support: A monthly education allowance of 100,000 won will be provided during the training period. Intern Salary Guarantee: During the internship period, you can work while receiving a salary higher than the minimum wage. From intern to full-time employment, and even an E-7-1 visa! The reason international students are most enthusiastic about this program is precisely because of its visa-linkage. It goes beyond simply gaining work experience; based on performance during the internship, there is an opportunity to transition to a full-time position. If your permanent employment is confirmed, the process for issuing the E-7-1 professional visa is linked. For those who wish to reside in Korea long-term and advance their careers, this is essentially the ultimate 'cheat code' that should not be missed. "It's not too late!" April Additional Recruitment Notice We have good news for those who were disappointed to miss the information session. We are currently accepting additional applications for the program throughout the month of April. Eligibility: International students residing in Korea (D-2, etc.) Goal: Obtain an E-7-1 visa and secure a regular job after completing job training. How to apply: Check the job posting details and apply via Jobflowy. 👉🏻 Apply for the E-7-1 Employment-Linked 'Work-Study Parallel' Trainee Program for International Students Beyond simply introducing jobs, JOBPLOY will always do its utmost by your side to help foreign job seekers confidently establish themselves as members of Korean society and lead a stable life in Korea. Jobploy will run alongside you until the day your dreams beautifully unfold at a Korean company!