Updated : 2025-10-03
E9 Visa
| Category | E-9 (Non-professional Employment) | E-7 (Special Activities) |
|---|---|---|
| Stay Duration | 3 years (extendable once for up to 1 year and 10 months) | 3-5 years (extendable continuously if necessary) |
| Visa Issuance Difficulty | Low | High |
| Application Process | Managed by the Ministry of Employment and Labor, with minimal direct involvement of private companies | Korean companies and foreign workers directly apply |
| Selection and Invitation | Companies cannot directly invite desired personnel | Directly inviting desired personnel is possible |
| Stay Management | Very strict, mandatory return to home country after term ends | Relatively flexible, conversion to permanent resident status possible |
| Quota Restrictions | Yes | No |
| Eligible Countries | Limited to 15 countries with agreements with the Korean government | No restrictions |
