Foreigners who graduated from universities in their home countries (not in Korea) can also obtain a visa and work at Korean companies. Even if you have not studied in Korea or have not graduated from a Korean university, you are still eligible to apply. There are various ways to work in Korea depending on the job type and employment form, but this article focuses on foreign university graduates who wish to work at Korean companies in fields related to their majors.
The E-7 Visa, officially known as the “Specially Designated Activities Visa”, is issued to foreign professionals working in designated specialized fields (around 80 occupations) approved by the Korean government. Eligible fields include IT, engineering, marketing, design, trade, and more.
To obtain an E-7 Visa, applicants must meet either the General Requirements or the Special Requirements, and some occupations may have additional criteria. Most foreign university graduates fall under the General Requirements.
1. General Requirements
1) Master’s degree or higher in a related field, or
2) Bachelor’s degree in a related field + at least 1 year of work experience, or
3) If no university degree, at least 5 years of relevant work experience.
2. Special Requirements
1) At least 1 year of professional work experience at a Top 500 global company
2) Bachelor’s degree from a Top 200 (Time) or Top 500 (QS World University Ranking) institution
3) Graduated from a Korean college (associate degree)
4) Holds a bachelor’s or higher degree from a Korean university
5) Outstanding professional recommended by a Korean ministry
6) High-income professional talent
7) Recommended by KOTRA (Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency)
8) Advanced technology personnel (D-10-3)
9) Holds an associate degree or higher from a foreign institution
10) Designated Japanese software engineer
3. Job-Specific Requirements
Some occupations have specific qualification requirements, while others do not.
🔗 Check Job-Specific E-7 Requirements
🔗 E-7 Visa Eligibility Self-Assessment
✅ Employment Contract is Mandatory for E-7 Visa Application
Meeting the qualifications does not automatically guarantee visa issuance. Before applying, you must sign an employment contract with a Korean company. This contract serves as the legal basis for your residence in Korea.
🔗 See Detailed E-7 Visa Application Procedure
✅ How Overseas Applicants Can Find E-7 Jobs
• Through Overseas Employment Agencies
Such agencies simplify the job search process,
but the cost is high, and job options are limited.
• Direct Job Search (Recommended)
You can register your resume and apply directly to Korean companies
through global recruitment platforms like TalentLink.
Once registered, Korean employers can view your profile and send job offers directly.
✍️ Conclusion
Foreign university graduates can definitely work in Korea and obtain an E-7 Visa. The key is thorough preparation and consistent job search efforts.
Continuously improve your Korean skills, strengthen professional and communication abilities, and keep track of job openings at Korean companies.
Korean companies are actively seeking global talent. Start your journey to employment in Korea with TalentLink today!
✅ Related Information
🔗 Introduction to the E-7 Visa
🔗 E-7 Job Search Process
🔗 E-7 Visa Eligibility Self-Assessment
🔗 Introduction to Employment Visas in Korea
