Find out about population decline areas! 89 Cities, Counties, and Districts (F2R, E74R, F4R)

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 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