EPS TOPIK Preparation Guide for 2026 E-9 Workers

hello, Hello, I'm Kang Byeol, an intern writer for Jobploy, a foreign recruitment platform. If you live in Korea, you will often find yourself needing to get a new passport. Did you know that it's not enough to just get a new passport; you must also report any changes to your passport information to HiKorea? If there is a change in passport information, such as passport number, date of issuance, or expiration date, you must report it to the Immigration Office within 15 days from the date of issuance. It's a good idea to take care of it in advance, as you may be subject to a late fee if you miss the deadline. Today, I'll explain step-by-step how to change your passport information online on the Hi Korea website. 1. Access and log in to Hi Korea First, access 👉 www.hikorea.go.kr in your internet browser. After logging in, click on “Civil Complaint Application” → “Electronic Civil Complaint” in this order from the menu at the top of the screen. 2. Go to the e-petition menu When you click on ‘Apply for Civil Complaint’, you will automatically be taken to the electronic civil complaint screen. If you scroll down the screen a bit, you will see a menu called “Passport Change Report.” You can proceed with the application by clicking on the relevant menu. 3. Enter new passport information When you enter the application screen, basic information such as name and alien registration number will be automatically displayed. First, please check if this information is correct. Then, based on your newly issued passport, Passport number Date of issue Validity period (expiration date) Enter each one accurately. It is important to check carefully as not even a single letter can be different from the information written on your passport. 4. Attach a copy of your passport and complete the application. Finally, scan or take a picture of your passport's personal information page (the page with your photo) with your phone and attach it as a file. After double-checking that the file has been uploaded normally, if there are no problems, click the “Apply” button to complete the application. Just remember this Changes to passport information must be reported within 15 days of the passport issuance date. Failure to report may result in fines When extending a visa or changing your status of residence If your passport information is different, unnecessary problems may arise. If you have reissued your passport, we recommend that you update your information in this order: Hi Korea Report → Bank → Telecommunications Company . The process itself is not difficult, but when you're busy, it's easy to miss this administrative reporting. To avoid unnecessary problems later when extending your visa or changing your residence status, it is safest to take care of it in advance after reissuing your passport. Going forward, JobPloy will continue to provide essential visa, immigration, and administrative information for foreigners living in Korea. Please feel free to contact me anytime if you need any information 🙂

Among D-2 students and D-4 general trainees studying in Korea, there are many who will need part-time work to cover tuition or living expenses. However, in Korea, part-time employment for foreign students is 'in principle prohibited', and they must obtain permission through pre-established procedures to legally work. Working without permission is not just a violation of regulations, but illegal employment. ✔ Imposition of fines ✔ Visa extension refusal ✔ Cancellation of residence status and forced deportation This may lead to serious disadvantages such as: In particular, there are many cases where people start working without permission with the thought that “it’ll be okay because it’s a short period of time” or “it’ll be okay because it’s a weekend part-time job”, and this affects them until they change their work visa (E-7) after graduation. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the procedures, conditions, and precautions international students and trainees need to know to legally work part-time, based on the latest regulations as of 2025. Before starting a part-time job, please be sure to check everything thoroughly. The "3-Step Approval Process" You Must Complete Before Starting a Part-Time Job The most important rule is to start preparing at least one week (five business days) before starting work. [Step 1] Employer Consultation Negotiation of working conditions Drafting a standard employment contract Obtain a copy of your business registration certificate [Step 2] School Pre-Approval (⚠ Key Step) Submit documents through the school portal or the International Exchange Team School seal required for confirmation of part-time employment for foreign students ※ Procedures and forms may vary by school → Be sure to check in advance [Step 3] Final Entry/Exit Report Submit documents with the school seal to Hi Korea or the immigration office. Work is possible after completing immigration approval Allowable working hours by Korean language proficiency and grades as of 2025 As of 2025, the allowable hours for part-time employment will be determined by Korean language proficiency (TOPIK/KIIP) and academic performance from the previous semester. Furthermore, the maximum allowable hours may vary depending on the accredited university and academic performance, so it's recommended to check with your school first. For students with excellent academic performance, employment permits are granted only to those designated by the school. Furthermore, only those who have been in school for six months prior to the change in qualifications are eligible, so most students in their first semester of their first year are ineligible for employment permits. Standards for Permitted Part-Time Employment Hours (Associate Degree, Bachelor's Degree) The Korean language proficiency standards for associate and bachelor's degrees are as follows: Korean language standard: Meet one of the following: TOPIK level 3, KIIP level 3, or Sejong Institute Intermediate 1 or higher division Korean language proficiency standards weekdays Weekdays (accredited universities, excellent students) weekend/vacation Associate Degree Satisfaction 25 hours 30 hours No restrictions Shortfall 10 hours 10 hours 10 hours Bachelor's degree 1st and 2nd year Satisfaction 25 hours 30 hours No restrictions Shortfall 10 hours 10 hours 10 hours 3rd or 4th year of undergraduate studies Satisfaction 25 hours 30 hours No restrictions Shortfall 10 hours 10 hours 10 hours Standards for Permitted Part-Time Employment Hours (Graduate School) The Korean language proficiency standards for master's and doctoral students and those preparing dissertations after completion are as follows. Korean language standard: Meet one of the following: TOPIK level 4, KIIP level 4, or Sejong Institute Intermediate 2 or higher division Korean language proficiency standards weekdays Weekdays (accredited universities, excellent students) weekend/vacation Master's and doctoral programs Satisfaction 30 hours 35 hours No restrictions Shortfall 15 hours 15 hours 15 hours Thesis Preparation Student (Completed) Satisfaction 30 hours 30 hours 30 hours Shortfall 15 hours 15 hours 15 hours Grade Requirements: Most schools will accept a C grade point average (2.0) or higher from the previous semester. English Track: 100% English-taught courses may be substituted with an English score (e.g. IELTS 5.5). List of jobs that are acceptable and unacceptable for part-time employment for international students Foreign students studying in Korea (D-2, D-4) must understand that “part-time work = all possible” is not a structure that requires restrictions in principle and exceptions in permission. Below is a list of tasks that are absolutely legally impossible and tasks that are exceptionally permitted if certain conditions are met. Tasks that can never be done (restricted areas) Any activity that may violate the student's status or disrupt social order is strictly prohibited, regardless of prior permission. ① Work that disrupts public morals and violates social order entertainment establishments casino Adult entertainment facilities, etc. → A complete ban on all businesses that harm public morals. ② Highly specialized jobs (E-1 ~ E-7 occupations) university professor Professional Engineer Professional instructors, etc. ③ Some simple labor jobs manufacturing construction industry → In principle, occupations eligible for non-professional employment (E-9) visas ④ Special type of workers The form of working as a business owner or self-employed person → ‘consignment/self-employment’ that is not an employment relationship is completely prohibited. Delivery app riders (Baemin, Coupang, etc.) delivery man designated driver Study materials, teachers, etc. ⑤ Indirect employment/dispatch work If you are dispatched to work at a place other than the contracted workplace Temporary work at a staffing agency ⑥ Violation of distance/area restrictions Working in an area too far from school or residence If it is judged that academic performance is being hindered Work that is possible if the conditions are met (areas where exceptions are allowed) The following tasks are generally restricted, but are possible if conditions are met and prior approval is obtained. ① Manufacturing (factory work) Available to those who have a TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) level 4 or higher Focused on simple repetitive tasks ② Kids Cafe/English Camp Safety assistant/play assistant role is possible Direct instruction or educational activities involving teaching children are not permitted. ③ 'Assistant activities' for professionals related to their major Possible if the following conditions are met: Related to your major A supporting role rather than an independent professional role ④ Major-linked internship Internships conducted during vacation Training allowance may be paid Formal internship contract linked to learning ⑤ Seasonal work Helping out with farm work during the busy farming season Government or local government-affiliated seasonal work programs Checklist of required documents ※ Since the online and in-person application methods vary by school, be sure to check the notices from the international exchange team of your university first. Passport and Alien Registration Card (original copies required) Integrated Application Form (Hi Korea Download) Part-time Employment Confirmation for Foreign Students (Employer's signature → School seal) Copy of standard employment contract (specifying hourly wage, working hours, and job description) Copy of business registration certificate Certificate of enrollment transcript Proof of Korean language proficiency (TOPIK, etc.) 💾 Download the Part-Time Employment Confirmation 💾 Download the standard employment contract How to apply: Hi Korea e-Petition (recommended) Because the immigration office operates on an appointment-only basis and has long wait times, applying online through Hi Korea after school approval is the fastest and safest option. Procedure: Complete school approval → Log in to Hi Korea → Apply for civil service → E-civil service → Apply for part-time employment permit → Upload scanned copies of documents. NOTE: To be safe, all documents must be submitted to the school and immigration office at least 5 days prior to the scheduled start date of part-time work. When registering in person: In urgent cases, you may visit the relevant office and request a "same-day number"; however, your application may be denied. Bring your original passport to your visit to verify your permit. Precautions and Prohibitions You Must Know Workplace restrictions: Up to two locations are permitted. Any change in location requires a new report. Tax Linkage: Cash-receiving part-time jobs can also be detected later through tax data linkage, which can be a serious disqualification when changing employment visas (E-7) after graduation. Even if it's cumbersome, be sure to follow the following order: [Prepare employer documents → School portal/personal representative approval → Final immigration report]. Confidently obtaining permission and working is the best way to protect your study abroad experience and future visas! Working with a formal permit is the safest way to protect your study abroad experience and future visa, rather than resorting to "shortcuts" like working without a permit. Working part-time is an important part of studying abroad, but the cost of not complying with visa regulations can be very high. JobPloy is a customized recruitment platform that allows international students to view job postings from employers who are willing to provide part-time employment at a glance. Find the perfect part-time job for you, and start safely with JobPloy.

D-2 Student Visa Extension Guide: For Overtime Semesters and Graduate School Completion Students For all D-2 student visa holders studying in Korea, visa extension is the most important administrative procedure to maintain residency status. Especially if you have exceeded the regular semester or are preparing a thesis after completing graduate school, the review process will be more rigorous and additional documents may be required. The information below outlines the procedures and key points that students who have completed additional semesters and graduate programs must know when preparing for a visa extension. When and how to apply for a visa extension Application period: Applications can be made up to 4 months prior to the expiration date of your stay. Please note: Due to the surge in applications during late February and late August, processing times can be significantly delayed. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you complete your application at least 1-2 months before the deadline. How to apply: Apply online at HiKorea (fee is 50,000 won, 10,000 won cheaper, no need to make an appointment). Visa Extension Process and Key Documents by Type The "Academic Proof Documents" you need to prepare will vary depending on your circumstances. In addition to the common documents (passport, alien registration card, application form, proof of residence, and fees), be sure to review the documents listed below. [Type ①] Oversemester students (undergraduate and graduate students) If you have remaining credits beyond the regular semester completion period. Academic Excess Reason Form: You must write the reason why you were unable to graduate within the regular semester and obtain the signature of your advisor or department head. Course Enrollment Confirmation: Proof that you are taking classes to complete your remaining credits is required. Transcripts and Certificate of Enrollment: Extensions may be restricted if your grades in the previous semester were poor. [Type ②] Graduate student (thesis preparation student) This is the case when you have attended all classes but are staying for the purpose of reviewing or submitting a thesis. Research Fact Confirmation (Supervisor's Confirmation): This is a key document for extension of the degree program. It must clearly state the progress of the thesis, the upcoming review and submission schedule, and the expected graduation date. Reason for Delay in Thesis Guidance Schedule: If you have already extended your thesis preparation period but were unable to graduate, you will need a detailed explanation of the delay and confirmation from your professor. [Important] Financial Ability Review (Banking Certificate) These are the revised guidelines and practical considerations as of 2025. Balance Criteria: For universities in the Seoul metropolitan area, a minimum balance of approximately 5 to 7 million won is required (reflecting the minimum living expenses for a six-month period of intended stay). Proof: A domestic bank balance certificate issued within 30 days of the application date. Note: * Large sums of money (lump sums) deposited suddenly just before the issuance of a certificate may be subject to investigation. If any abnormal fund flow is discovered, it will be grounds for requesting submission of a 'transaction statement' and refusing extension. Proof of residence and other required confirmations Proof of Residence: A copy of the lease agreement is required. If the property is not in your name, you must submit a "Confirmation of Accommodation Provision," a copy of the provider's ID, and the contract for the property. Health Insurance: Visa extensions are strictly prohibited if you are behind on your National Health Insurance premiums. If you have any outstanding balances, please pay them before applying. Document Validity: All certificates must be valid for no more than one month from the date of issue . (Some rigorous review procedures may require an expiration date of 15 days.) 💡 Administrative Tips for International Students Check in advance: Be sure to check your university's International Student Support Center website to see if they have school-specific forms. Utilizing online application: After applying online to Hi Korea, you should check the progress on ‘My Page’ regularly and respond immediately when you receive a ‘ Request for supplementation ’ text message. Observe the deadline: If you apply after the expiration date, you will be subject to a late fee and, in severe cases, may be deported, so be sure to mark the date on your calendar. Common Document Checklist for D-2 Visa Extension Required documents for all international students division Required documents note Proof of identity Integrated Application Form (Appendix 34) Hi Korea Download Proof of identity Original and copy of passport Sufficient validity period Proof of identity Alien registration card Bring the original Proof of academic achievement Certificate of enrollment or completion Issued within 1 month Proof of academic achievement transcript previous semester Proof of finances Balance certificate About 5 to 7 million won in the metropolitan area Proof of residence Lease Agreement If it is not in your name, add a 'Confirmation of Provision of Residence' charge 50,000 to 60,000 won Online 50,000 won / In-person 60,000 won 💾 Download the integrated application form   💾 Download the Accommodation Provision Confirmation Additional submission documents by type Depending on your current academic status, you must additionally prepare the following documents. Target Additional documents Key Checkpoints regular semester students Certificate of tuition payment Check whether you are registered for the next semester Extra semester students Academic Excess Reason Statement Reasons for delayed graduation and future plans Extra semester students Course Registration Confirmation Expected credits graduate students Research Fact Confirmation Certificate Check the progress of your thesis and your advisor graduate students Reason for Postponement of thesis guidance schedule (If extended more than twice) Delay in graduation 💾 Download the thesis advisor confirmation letter *For thesis advisor confirmation letter, the school may have a separate form, so you must check with the international student service center. Final Checklist for Preparing Documents Validity: All certificates must be valid for no more than one month from the date of issue. (A recent bank statement is recommended.) Signature Verification: Please check that your advisor's handwritten signature or seal is not missing from the statement of purpose or confirmation. Health Insurance: If you have any delinquent national health insurance premiums, your visa extension will be denied. Online Application: When applying through Hi Korea , all documents must be scanned and uploaded (PDF/JPG). After completing your application: Please note that your visa may be canceled if you leave the country during the extension review period. ※ Required documents may vary depending on the school size, accreditation level, and guidelines of the competent immigration office. Please be sure to double-check with your university's international student center before applying. Extending your D-2 visa is not a simple administrative procedure; it is the most important gateway to continuing your studies and stay in Korea. Especially for students in extra semesters or those who have completed their studies, the key evaluation criteria are “why they have not graduated yet” and “whether their future plans are clear.” Please make sure to prepare your documents and schedule with plenty of time to spare, as your extension may be denied if you are not prepared. JobPloy provides accurate information and practical guidance to international students to ensure a smooth transition from their studies and stay in Korea to employment. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of extending your visa, prepare step by step with JobPloy.

Passion that Crosses Borders, Stepping on Korean Soil December 22, 2025, was an unforgettable day for the Jobploy team. We went to Incheon International Airport to welcome Eep Sanjaya, a talented Indonesian, to support her new life in Korea. We at Jobploy were thrilled to be a part of this precious moment, a turning point in someone's life. The fruit of three months of technical expertise and trust Ep was able to open the door to new opportunities in Korea through Jobploy. While finding employment abroad can feel daunting, Jobploy's multilingual service provided a solid guide. Thanks to this, we were able to overcome the barriers of the complex international recruitment market and perfectly match Eep's outstanding skills with the needs of Korean companies. What was most surprising was the speed. The entire process, including entry into Korea, was completed in just three months from the time I received my acceptance letter. I believe this was due to the synergy between Eep's outstanding capabilities and our team's systematic support. My first meal in Korea: beef radish soup Before we began our work in earnest, we enjoyed a cozy brunch with Eep at the airport. It was our long-awaited first meal on Korean soil. Eep chose the hearty and warm "Beef Radish Soup." She smiled brightly, saying she had a similar dish in Indonesia and that the rich Korean flavor suited her taste, warming the hearts of our team members. A master of 'gravure printing' with 16 years of experience Eep, now 39, is a true "printing master" with 16 years of experience, transcending his academic background. Although he never completed higher education, his skills, honed through years of hands-on experience, are more solid than anyone else's. He possessed unparalleled expertise, particularly in the field of gravure printing, having worked as an engineer leader in Indonesia and Vietnam. I believed that his sophisticated skills in handling high-speed printing machines would be a great asset to the new company he was joining. A responsible father of two children This is Mr. Ip Sanjaya's first visit to Korea, and as a husband and father of two, he feels a deep sense of responsibility towards his family as he approaches this challenge. The Jobploy team was deeply impressed by his genuine passion for work and the positive energy he brings to brighten up his surroundings. Eep's new home: Plus Pack in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province Eep took her precious first steps at Plus Pack, a solid printing company located in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province. This company boasts a solid scale, boasting annual sales of 10 billion won, which gave her added reassurance. More than anything, what gave our Jobploy team the greatest sense of security was the CEO's mindset. He not only always prioritized safety, but also embraced foreign workers with openness and warmth, without prejudice. With such a capable leader, I was confident that even Eep, who came from a foreign country, would feel comfortable and be able to fully demonstrate her capabilities. Our Jobploy team didn't just pick you up at the airport, they personally escorted you to your work location in Pocheon and conducted a thorough orientation. In the car, we shared practical knowledge and life tips essential for living in Korea to help them relax. After arriving at the company, we arranged a time for them to formally greet the HR and technical team leaders. As a fellow Korean, I provided detailed guidance on all aspects of work and daily life. I not only reviewed the machines and factory layouts Eep would be handling, but also meticulously covered everything from her future accommodations to where she would eat, helping her quickly adapt to the unfamiliar environment. Eep, whom I met on-site, was a true veteran with 16 years of experience. As soon as he encountered the machinery while touring the factory facilities, he immediately grasped the essence of his duties. He didn't just listen to the explanation, but also took the initiative to ask the plant manager detailed questions about his working style and how the machines were operated. It was a moment when his expertise as a gravure printing leader, traveling through Indonesia and Vietnam at the age of 39, shone through. 🏢 What kind of company is Plus Pack? → View company information The value created by Jobploy and a new beginning Eep's story reminds us why Jobploy does what it does. There's nothing more valuable than a passionate person encountering a life-changing opportunity, and that opportunity leading to the growth of a company. The sight of Eep excitedly inspecting the machines he would soon lead was the most moving moment for our team this week. Eep, we sincerely welcome you to Korea! We at Jobploy will be cheering you on until the very end as you embark on your new journey. Waiting for another success story Just as Eep and Plus Pack's beautiful journey began, Jobploy is leading the way in connecting companies with top talent overseas, transcending borders. Beyond simple document matching, we pride ourselves on meticulously caring for the entire process, from entry to on-site adaptation. If you're a global talent seeking new opportunities through employment in Korea, or a company looking to hire proven, top-tier international talent who can energize your business, don't hesitate to contact us. Jobploy will be your most reliable partner for success.

Have you ever felt lost about what to do when you first came to Korea?If so, don't worry and check out this guide!Open a mobile phone accountIf you're new to Korea, the first thing you'll need to prepare is a prepaid SIM card.If possible, we recommend purchasing it in advance before departure or activating it immediately at the airport upon arrival.At this time, it is important to secure a SIM card with a ‘Korean phone number’ rather than just using an eSIM.This is because most of the initial administrative procedures in Korea require a passport + a Korean mobile phone number.Typical situations where a Korean phone number is neededImmigration Office Visit ReservationMake an appointment at the Immigration Office to obtain an Alien Registration Card (formerly known as ARC)(Refer to HiKorea reservation system)banking businessWhen opening your first Korean bank account, you need to provide your own mobile phone number.How to activate a short-term prepaid SIM cardTelecommunication booths in the airportMajor telecommunications companies such as KT, SKT, and LG U+ are operating booths at Incheon Airport.Can be opened on siteAirport pickup after pre-orderBook online before departure and pick up at the airportRecommended to reduce waiting timeConvenience store purchasesSome convenience stores sell low-cost prepaid SIM cards.It is more reliable to visit a telecommunications company branch as it is not handled at all branches.Preparationpassportunlocked phone※ Be sure to check that your country's telecommunications company has not locked your area.Open a bank accountOnce you have a prepaid number, the next step is to open a Korean bank account .Many universities have partnerships with specific banks that issue cards that combine student ID and check card functionality.However, at the beginning of the semester, there may be a large number of applicants, so it may take a long time to issue the certificate.So, while waiting for a student check card, many people open a personal bank account first.Why is it a good idea to open a bank account quickly?In my personal experience, a bank account is also essential for switching from prepaid to postpaid.Additionally, not all banks allow foreigners to open accounts with just a passport and prepaid number, so you may need to visit multiple banks.Documents required to open a bank account (based on experience)passportHome country identification cardPrepaid mobile phone number in your nameProof of residence(Dormitory confirmation or lease agreement)Cash for initial deposit(Additional amount recommended to activate transportation card function)Until you receive your Alien Registration Card (Residence Card), your use of mobile or internet banking may be restricted, and you may need to use a teller's office or ATM for the time being.Prepaid → Postpaid SIM card conversionIn Korea, there are three major telecommunications companies: KT, SKT, and LG U+ , and there are also budget phone (MVNO) rate plans.While the budget phone uses the network of the major telecommunication companies,✔ Rates are about 50% cheaper✔ Short-term or no-contract plans availableIt is especially recommended for international students and foreigners because of its advantages.Requirements for Postpaid SIM Card ActivationpassportHome country identification cardAlien registration card (if already issued)Korean bank account (for automatic transfer)Opening locationDirectly operated telecommunications agency: Be sure to check if they offer a budget phone plan.Cell phone stores near universities: Experienced in serving foreigners and fluent in EnglishBank-linked MVNOs: Kookmin Bank, Woori Bank, etc.If you are planning a long-term stay, we strongly recommend switching from a prepaid SIM card to a postpaid plan .Postpaid plans are not only cost-effective, but are also crucial for identity verification.in koreabanking servicesKakaoTalkNAVERVarious online administrative servicesAll require a verified mobile phone number.🔔 Please rememberAfter receiving your alien registration cardbanknews agencyYou must update your personal information with your Alien Registration Card information on both sides.Once your mobile phone number and bank account are properly linked to your alien registration card, administrative procedures and daily life in Korea will become much more convenient.