Young people from all over the world visit Korea for various reasons. From K-pop and dramas to delicious food and a city culture where tradition and modernity coexist, Korea is an attractive travel destination and place to live. For those who feel that travel alone is not enough, there is a special visa system for young foreigners: the H-1 visa.
✅ What is the H-1 Visa?
The H-1 visa is commonly known as the Working Holiday visa. It allows young people from 26 countries that have a working holiday agreement with Korea to travel and legally work part-time in the country for up to one year. This visa offers a chance to experience life within Korean society, learn the language and culture, and earn an income, going beyond a simple tourist experience.
✅ Eligibility Requirements
• Age: Generally 18 to 30 years old (some countries have a 25-year limit)
• Nationality: A citizen of a country that has a working holiday agreement with Korea
• Other: No criminal record, proof of funds for stay (approx. 3 million KRW + round-trip airfare)
※ Eligibility criteria may vary slightly by country, so please check the website of the Korean embassy in your country for detailed information.
✅ Period of Stay
• Maximum stay of 1 year
• Cannot be extended
※ It is possible to change to another visa and continue to stay, provided you meet the eligibility requirements for the new visa.
✅ Permitted Activities
• Travel and Cultural Experience: Free travel throughout Korea
• Part-time Work: Short-term jobs at cafes, restaurants, convenience stores, and as an assistant at language academies are possible
※ Work in professional/high-risk industries or entertainment venues is restricted.
✅ Advantages
• Ability to stay for up to one year
• Directly experience K-pop, dramas, traditional culture, and food
• Learn the Korean language through real-life experience
• Gain a foundation for future study or employment in Korea by experiencing the corporate environment
✅ Application Process
• Apply at the Korean embassy/consulate in your home country
• Submit required documents, including a passport, application form, proof of funds, and a health certificate
• Visa is issued after review
The H-1 visa is not just a "work while you travel" program; it can be a special opportunity to deeply understand Korea and experience local life. It's important to have a solid plan before entering the country—decide where you will live and what kind of work you will do—and to manage your funds carefully.
You can also find good job opportunities by using the diverse foreign recruitment information provided by TalentLink.
✅ Related Information
🔗 List of Working Holiday Agreement Countries (Korea Working Holiday Information Center)
