[Corporate] 2025 Foreign Worker (E-9) New Employment Permit Application Schedule

Hello, this is JOBPLOY, a recruitment platform for foreign job seekers looking for employment in Korea. For foreign job seekers dreaming of a fresh start in Korea, Jobploy consistently provides accurate employment information and reliable visa and administrative services. Many foreign workers often face difficulties due to language barriers and complex administrative procedures when changing jobs, extending visas, or altering workplaces. Today, we introduce a vivid, real-life employment interview with HHTAY from Myanmar, who holds an E-7-4 (Skilled Worker) visa and successfully found a new job through Jobploy. Jobflowy Real Employment Interview Thanks to Jobflowy, I was able to succeed in the job change and visa issues that felt daunting on my own, along with warm support. Q1. How did you first hear about JOBPLOY? I found out about Jobploy because a Myanmar acquaintance living in Gimpo actively recommended and promoted it on Facebook. It seems to be very popular through word of mouth within the foreigner community. Q2. What duties did you perform at your previous job, and what was the reason for your resignation? At my previous company, I was responsible for heat treatment-related work. I worked day and night shifts for about five years, but unfortunately, I decided to resign because my health deteriorated somewhat due to the reversed day-night schedule. Q3. Were you aware of the 'change of workplace' regulations for the E-7-4 visa in advance? Since this was my first time changing jobs and workplaces, I was not familiar with the exact procedures. I was very worried because I only knew the superficial information that "it is difficult to change workplaces if you resign within two years due to personal reasons." Q4. Specifically, what kind of help did you receive from Jobflowy during your job preparation process? Above all, what I liked most was that you connected me with interview opportunities quickly. Through Jobflowy, I was able to swiftly interview with two companies that matched my career background. In particular, being able to honestly share my anxiety about the job search process was a great emotional comfort. Every time I had a phone consultation, I felt a warmth as if someone were listening directly right beside me, which was a huge source of strength. Q5. What was the reason you ultimately chose your current company (DS Soltech)? After visiting the company and seeing the workplace firsthand, I gained confidence that I could handle the job without difficulty because it was safe and free of dangerous elements. Commuting was convenient, but above all, the consideration shown in allowing my spouse (wife) to live in the company-provided dormitory was the decisive factor. Q6. What was the most memorable or rewarding moment you experienced while working in Korea? As expected, 'payday,' when I am rewarded for my hard work, is the most memorable and rewarding. Also, the very fact that I can work together with diverse foreign colleagues in the same workplace in Korea is a very special experience for me. Q7. What was the most difficult thing about finding a job on your own in Korea? Realistically, it is very difficult for a foreigner to find a legal and good job on their own. Usually, people pay a fee to look for jobs through an administrative agent, but they can be hurtful because some agents do not help with sincerity. However, since discovering Jobflowy, my job preparation has become much easier because I can receive kind, detailed, and free assistance ranging from professional career counseling to guidance on complex visa documents. Q8. Please briefly introduce DS Soltech, the company you recently moved to! DS Soltech Co., Ltd., where I have started working, is a stable company established in 2008 and an excellent enterprise specializing in the surface treatment (plating) of ultra-high voltage connection materials and components. Here, I have begun a new career as an expert in plating and surface treatment. 👉🏻Introducing DS Soltech. Q9. Please say a few words to other foreign colleagues preparing for employment in Korea. It is important to always prioritize safety at work and strictly adhere to company rules. Additionally, maintaining good relationships with your superiors and colleagues through mutual consideration will make your life in Korea much more enjoyable. Don't struggle alone; I highly recommend preparing with JOBPLOY, as you can receive significant assistance in various aspects! Q10. Lastly, please feel free to share anything you would like to say to Jobploy. I hope you will continue to provide high-quality employment opportunities and support not only to me but also to the many foreign workers working hard in Korea. Thank you very much! [Fact Check] Precautions When Changing Workplace on an E-7-4 Visa Regarding the change of workplace for the E-7-4 visa that Tay was concerned about, strict standards apply in accordance with the Immigration Control Act of the Ministry of Justice. We are providing clear guidelines to ensure that foreign job seekers do not suffer any disadvantages. Principle of Restriction on Changing Jobs: The E-7-4 visa is generally based on the principle of continuing employment at the initially designated workplace. Cases where changing jobs is possible: Cases where there is no fault attributable to the foreign worker, such as the suspension or closure of the original workplace, unpaid wages, or bankruptcy. In cases where a 'Transfer Agreement' has been issued with the consent of the original employer. Caution: If you resign without notice due to personal reasons or without the consent of your original employer, permission to change your workplace may be restricted, so you must consult a professional. 👉🏻 Can I become an E-7-4? Try using the Jobploy score calculator 🤝 A reliable partner for foreign job seekers, JOBPLOY Stop struggling alone with complicated visa issues and worries about changing jobs. JOBPLOY, a recruitment platform for foreigners, promises to do its utmost to support foreign job seekers with a family-like approach throughout the entire process—from job placement to visa administration guidance—so that you can settle stably into Korean society and work in a safe environment, just like in the case of Tay. JOBPLOY will always be with you for your successful life in Korea!

Hello, this is the Jobploy Recruitment Manager. The third week of May has already begun. How is everyone doing? Today, I would like to share some important news with international students preparing for employment in Korea. JOBPLOY has been assisting international students with their overall employment since 2025. [Job preparation that feels so difficult] Many international students struggle with whether to continue with master's or doctoral programs after graduation or to prepare for employment immediately. Many people apply for a D-10 visa and apply on various recruitment platforms, but often do not receive a response. Even if they are lucky enough to get an interview opportunity, they often struggle due to a lack of confidence during the interview in Korean . The concerns frequently heard, especially in such situations, are as follows: “Why haven’t I heard back from the company I applied to?” “Won’t I fail the interview if my Korean seems lacking?” “I don’t know where to start preparing for a job.” If such experiences are repeated, anxiety and worry accumulate, and in some cases, people eventually give up on finding a job and make a living through part-time work. However, I believe that with accurate information and strategic preparation, getting a job is possible, even if it takes a long time. [`The Key to Job Preparation is Your Mindset '] The first point that Jobflowy emphasizes is a positive mindset . People who have the mindset of “I can do it!” are actually succeeding in finding employment and continuing their careers. A positive mindset leads me to good thoughts and directions. confident attitude Positive mindset A willingness to take on challenges These three things are a great help during the preparation process. As you prepare for employment now, ask yourself: What is my mindset regarding finding a job? [` Finding what I want to do ` ] Many international students look for “high-paying jobs” or “companies that support visas.” Of course, these are important, but what is more important is what kind of work I want to do . Even if you join a company that offers visa support, if the work is not a good fit, you will eventually consider changing jobs. Furthermore, if a short career is repeated, companies find it difficult to accept the reason for resignation, and changing jobs becomes increasingly difficult. Therefore, it is important to find what you truly want to do before graduating or even starting now, and to consider what preparations are needed for it. For example, “I enjoy communicating with people” → Sales & Marketing roles “I am strong in analysis and data” → Research and Planning roles “I enjoy coming up with creative ideas” → Design/Content role You can identify your tendencies, personality, and recommended jobs through a vocational psychological test. As such, identifying your own tendencies and strengths is the first step to successful employment. [ ` Job Hunting Strategies with JOBPLOY ` ] After graduation, you can stay in Korea for up to three years on a D-10 visa. JOBPLOY helps you develop a job plan and prepare for employment during this period. 1. Check Application: Even small activities are welcome! Organizing various projects, major courses, practical training, clubs, volunteer activities, internships, and part-time job experiences Please record the company name, employment period, and responsibilities in detail. 2. Personal Statement Review: Organizing Experiences is a Key Point Write your motivation for applying, strengths, and future aspirations based on your experience. Summarize what you experienced in your home country or Korea. 3. Interview Preparation: A time to introduce yourself and get to know yourself. Organize anticipated questions and practice answering in your native language or Korean. 1-minute self-introduction, practice bright facial expression and posture Practice smiling in front of the mirror regularly [`Feeling lost preparing for employment alone? Now, join JOBPLOY` ] Beyond simply providing job information, Jobflowy will listen to your story and help you design a customized job search strategy together. If you apply for career counseling, we will guide you on more specific preparation methods. Why not embark on your career journey as an international student with Jobploy? Application Page: https://www.jobploy.kr/counsel For inquiries, please contact the Jobploy recruitment manager via message at 010-2752-2134.

Small Business Owners in Declining Population Areas Can Now Hire Foreigners (F-2-R): A Complete Guide to Special Employment Exceptions for Regional Revitalization (2026) At a Glance, the Ministry of Justice will pilot the 'Special Employment Provisions for Regional Vitality Small Business Owners' starting May 18, 2026. Small business owners and agricultural corporations in the manufacturing, wholesale and retail, and restaurant sectors who meet the requirements of operating for at least three years and having annual sales of at least 100 million won in 89 population-declining regions nationwide may hire one foreign national under the Regional Specialized Talent (F-2-R) visa without hiring a domestic national. The pilot operation will run until December 31, 2027. What changes? Previously, to hire a holder of an F-2-R (Regionally Specialized Talent) visa, at least one local employee had to be employed at the workplace. However, in areas with declining populations, it was difficult to recruit locals, which placed significant restrictions on the utilization of foreign labor. With the introduction of this special provision, small business owners and agricultural corporations that meet certain requirements will be able to hire one F-2-R foreigner regardless of whether they employ domestic nationals. Requirements for Application of Special Provisions item detail Applicable Areas 89 population-declining regions nationwide Applicable industries Manufacturing, Wholesale and Retail Trade, Restaurant Business (Small Business Owners) / Agricultural Corporations Business operation period 3 years or more Previous year's sales 100 million won or more Number of available hires One foreigner with an F-2-R visa Pilot operation period May 18, 2026 – December 31, 2027 Policy Background and Purpose The Ministry of Justice is promoting this system as a core task of the '2030 Future Strategy for Immigration Policy.' It is a policy that aims not merely to expand the foreign workforce, but to simultaneously revitalize the local economy and alleviate the management burden on small business owners. In particular, the policy is to encourage F-2-R visa holders with a high understanding of the Korean language and culture to settle stably in the local community. What is an F-2-R visa? The F-2-R (Regionally Specialized Talent) visa is a residence visa issued on the condition of residing and working in a region experiencing population decline. It is granted to foreign nationals who meet the requirements for outstanding talent, such as specific educational background, income, and Korean language proficiency, and those who reside and work in the region for five years or more may receive bonus points when applying for permanent residency. Things small business owners need to know Your workplace must be located in an area of ​​population decline. Please check the Ministry of the Interior and Safety's notice to see if your workplace is included in the 89 designated areas. You must have a history of operating for at least 3 years after business registration. You must be able to prove sales of 100 million won or more in the previous year (e.g., VAT return data). Hiring is limited to one person per workplace. You need to check with the competent immigration office regarding specific application procedures and required documents. Things Foreign Job Seekers Need to Know Foreign nationals holding an F-2-R visa are highly likely to see increased employment opportunities due to this special provision. Previously, small businesses without domestic employees were unable to hire, but going forward, employment options will expand to include restaurants, retail stores, small manufacturing companies, and agricultural corporations in areas experiencing population decline. However, as detailed operational guidelines are subject to change during the pilot period, it is advisable to verify whether the workplace meets the special exemption requirements before applying. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Q1. How do I check if my visa is F-2-R? A. You can check your status of residence code on the back of your Alien Registration Card or on My Page at HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr). If it is marked as 'F-2-R', you qualify as a Regionally Specialized Excellent Talent. If you are unsure, please contact the Foreigners Information Center (☎ 1345). Q2. Where are the 89 areas experiencing population decline? A. These are regions designated and notified by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, and they are mostly county-level areas in non-capital regions such as Gangwon, Chungbuk, Chungnam, Jeonbuk, Jeonnam, Gyeongbuk, and Gyeongnam. 👉🏻 Check areas with population decline Q3. We already have foreign employees at the workplace. Can we hire additional F-2-R visa holders? A. This special provision allows for the hiring of one F-2-R visa holder per workplace. Whether this applies separately from the employment of other visa holders depends on detailed operational guidelines, so it is necessary to check with the competent immigration office. Q4. What happens after the pilot operation period ends? A. The Ministry of Justice plans to review whether to formally institutionalize the system after analyzing the results of the pilot operation, which will run until December 31, 2027. The impact on the status of residence of foreigners employed during the pilot operation will be subject to a separate announcement. Q5. I would like to work at a restaurant. Is that possible? A. Since the restaurant industry is included in the sectors eligible for this special exemption, small restaurant owners in areas experiencing population decline can hire F-2-R visa holders if they meet the requirements. If you are looking for job openings available with your current visa, you can check job postings by region and job function on Jobflowy. If you find the visa requirements or application process complicated, consult with a Jobflowy administrative consultant to receive answers tailored to your specific situation. For further consultation, please contact Jobploy. ☎ 02-875-2134 / ✉ support@jobploy.kr

The Door Is Opening Little by Little — Spring 2026, The Story of the Foreigner Visa System In early May, the Ministry of Justice released a short but meaningful press release. The title was somewhat long: "Learn Korean Cuisine, Revitalize Root Industries, and Enjoy Workcations." At first glance, it seems like a jumble of disparate words, but upon closer inspection, a clear trend emerges: Korean society is opening its doors to foreigners in a more diverse range of ways. A total of eight changes were announced. Since the numbers alone might not be very impressive, I would like to begin by discussing who stands before these doors and for what reasons. To foreigners dreaming of becoming Korean chefs The first story is about Korean cuisine. For foreigners wishing to learn Korean food at the 'Sura School' designated by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, visa requirements such as educational background, work experience, and language proficiency have long been significant barriers. It essentially means that while they want to come and learn because they love Korean food, actually entering the country itself has not been easy. In this reorganization, these requirements are being relaxed on a trial basis. This means the threshold for the Korean Cuisine Training (D-4) visa is being lowered. From the government's perspective, this is about fostering talent for the globalization of K-Food, but it also holds significance for the job market. This is because it implies that within the next few years, a pool of personnel who have formally mastered Korean cuisine locally will be established. This is a change worth noting for Korean restaurants or food companies considering overseas expansion. There is a shortage of workers at the factory. The second story is a bit heavier. There is a term called "root industries." These refer to fields such as mold making, casting, and welding—the processes that underpin the very foundation of manufacturing. The shortage of skilled workers in these sectors is a long-standing issue. The difficulty in finding people is no longer a new lament for recruiters. The newly added category is 'Mold Maker' under the General Skilled Worker (E-7-3) visa. Until now, the mold-making sector was a field where visa pathways for legally employing foreign workers were effectively blocked. The pilot program is limited to 150 participants per year. You may feel this is a small number. However, once a track opens, it typically expands—this is the standard trajectory of visa policy. What is more important than the number of 150 in the first year is the fact that 'a closed door has opened.' The requirements are also interesting. If you pass the proficiency test conducted by the National Root Industry Promotion Center and possess Korean language skills equivalent to TOPIK Level 3, the experience requirement is waived. In other words, if you can prove your proficiency and qualifications in Korean, you can hire personnel who are close to entry-level. Foreigners working in Jeju The third story has a quite different atmosphere. It is Jeju Island. If a foreigner entering Jeju without a visa stays to work remotely, their period of stay is extended from 30 days to a maximum of 90 days. However, they must have an income above a certain level and obtain a letter of recommendation from the Governor of Jeju. When I first saw this item, the term 'Digital Nomad Visa' naturally came to mind. It is the system already in operation in countries like Portugal, Estonia, and Thailand. Korea has been somewhat late in this regard, but it appears to be launching a Korean-style workcation model in earnest, using Jeju as a testing ground. While 90 days may seem short, it is sufficient time to complete a project. If this expands to the mainland, the landscape of the foreign employment market could change completely. One year held back entry-level STEM talent The fourth story is about a wall that any recruiter has likely encountered at least once. The E-7-1 professional visa requires a one-year work experience. For bachelor's degree graduates, this one year often became a stumbling block. The complaint, "I want to hire a good entry-level foreigner, but I can't because of the visa," was quite a familiar grievance in the IT industry. This one-year requirement is waived for participants in the 'Overseas Specialized Technical Manpower Recruitment Program' operated by the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The program applies to individuals who have undergone job training, language education, and a verification process in the overseas location. This effectively creates a verified entry-level track. While it may seem small, it represents a significant change in the actual recruitment landscape. The path to settling in Korea early The fifth and sixth stories can be grouped together along similar lines. They are all stories about education and settlement. Foreign students enrolling in the four international schools located within the Jeju English Education City will now be eligible for the D-4 visa for high school and below. This means that if students attend school in Korea from a young age, and this naturally leads to university education and employment, the number of foreign talents who will settle in Korea in the long term will increase. In a similar vein, graduates of foreign university campuses located in Korea (currently five locations) will receive the same special treatment as graduates of regular domestic universities. Previously, visa processing was somewhat cumbersome for foreign nationals who graduated from branch campuses in places like Songdo or Busan and sought employment in Korea. Now, they will be on the same starting line. One year in Korea before going to university The final topic is the gap year. It concerns the issuance of visas that allow foreign nationals who have graduated from high school in OECD countries to stay in Korea for about a year to explore career paths before entering university. This is a strategy to familiarize outstanding foreign students with Korea even before the admission stage. Although it comes with the condition that universities must specifically prepare program content and academic management plans, the shift in thinking to "bring them in advance and help them settle" is interesting when viewed within the bigger picture of attracting international students. One stream penetrating the eight If you have read along this far, you will see that while each individual item may appear to be a small change, a clear direction emerges when viewed as a whole. It is that Korea's approach to welcoming foreigners is diversifying, moving away from a single "big door" to "multiple smaller doors." Skilled workers, professionals, students, digital nomads, and aspiring chefs. Entry routes tailored to individual circumstances and qualifications are gradually increasing. This change is directly reflected in the recruitment market. We are slowly shifting from an era where only a single visa track was known to an era where one can select and utilize a visa track that fits the company's industry and job function. Of course, many items are still in the pilot phase. Both the numbers and the scope are currently small, such as limiting eligibility to 150 people per year, restricting it to Jeju, and limiting it to five universities. However, changes in visa policies typically start small like this and gradually expand. This is why Jobflowy takes this announcement seriously. Jobploy's Next Story In this post, I have laid out the big picture. In the next posts, I plan to explore each visa track one by one and organize a practical guide on who applies, with what documents, and how. The E-7-3 Mold Maker, E-7-1 Entry-level Science and Engineering, and Jeju Workcation sections will follow in order. Just because the door is open does not mean everyone can find their way in. We believe that finding that door and walking that path together is Jobploy's role.

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 an 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 prepare by reviewing your resume and practicing mock interviews. 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