Duration of the E7 Visa
The E7 visa typically has a validity period ranging from 2 to 5 years, depending on the contract between the employee and the employer. It is a long-term visa that many workers aspire to obtain. Once granted the E7 visa, workers can focus on their professional work in South Korea without worrying about visa expiration. The South Korean government offers special provisions for skilled workers.
Requirements for E7 Visa
- Age: Under 35 years old
- Education: At least a vocational diploma or higher
- Work Experience: A minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience in South Korea (must be in the same field as your degree)
- Sponsorship: Must have a job offer from a company in South Korea with a monthly salary of at least 1.9 million won, and a valid personal income tax code
- Documents: All documents must be translated into Korean and notarized by the embassy
- Special Cases: Workers in South Korea’s core industries may only need a high school diploma and 4 years of work experience
Why Many Want the E7 Visa
The E7 visa is aimed at highly skilled workers and provides numerous benefits from the South Korean government.
Automotive Engineering in South Korea
- Starting Salary: 1,000 – 1,500 USD per month
- Benefits: Accommodation, meals, and other living conveniences provided
- Visa Duration: The E7 visa allows for long-term work in South Korea, with a 5-year term that can be renewed annually.
- Family Benefits: Workers with E7 visas can bring their spouse, parents, and children to live in South Korea.
- Career Path: After 5 years of work, there is an opportunity to transition to permanent residency with an F2 visa, and later to an F5 visa for long-term residency.
How to Apply for the E7 Visa
Foreigners seeking the E7 visa must sign a direct contract with a South Korean employer and follow legal procedures. In Vietnam, workers register their contract with the Department of Labor, War Invalids, and Social Affairs before applying for a visa at the South Korean embassy or consulate. Companies in South Korea apply for the visa on behalf of the worker, while the worker applies for the visa at the local consulate.
Types of E7 Visas
- E7 for Sales Jobs: There are various professional fields in South Korea, but obtaining an E7 visa for sales jobs directly from Vietnam is rare. Some jobs in large stores or supermarkets offer decent salaries. These positions are suitable for both men and women, but there are limited slots available.
- Requirements: Female preference, 24–35 years old, university degree (English or Korean proficiency is a plus), minimum height of 1.55 meters, weight over 45 kg, and good health.
Benefits for Sales Workers with E7 Visas
- Salary: 2,000 – 2,500 USD per month
- Accommodation Support: Employers often provide housing
- Family Support: Workers can bring family members to South Korea and can visit their home country while working.
E7 Visa for Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering is one of the highest-demand professions in South Korea. Mechanical engineers can work in large tech and mechanical corporations and are given priority for the E7 visa.
- Requirements for Mechanical Engineers:
- Male preference, under 39 years old
- University degree in mechanical engineering (graduated more than 3 years ago)
- Strong work ethic, honest, and able to work under pressure
- Korean language skills are preferred
Benefits for Mechanical Engineers with E7 Visas
- Salary: 2,000 – 2,500 USD per month (negotiable depending on skills)
- Family Benefits: Engineers can bring family members to South Korea
- Work Benefits: Health insurance, pension, and additional wages for overtime and holiday work
- Residency: Unlimited stay in South Korea, with the option to remain as long as desired.
E7 Visa for Electronics Engineers
South Korea is a leader in electronics, with numerous large corporations in this field. Electronics engineers have opportunities to work on designing and developing electronic devices and systems.
- Requirements for Electronics Engineers:
- Male preference, 23–42 years old
- University degree in Electrical, Electronics, or Telecommunications Engineering
- Proficiency in English communication and the ability to work under pressure
- Korean language skills are preferred
Benefits for Electronics Engineers with E7 Visas
- Salary: 29–50 million VND per month, depending on role and capability
- Contract: Long-term contracts with potential for extension
- Residency: The option to bring family to live in South Korea and work in an international environment
- Other Benefits: Follow South Korean labor laws regarding benefits and protections.
Working in South Korea with an E7 Visa
South Korea continues to attract a large number of Vietnamese workers due to cultural similarities and high economic development. South Korea offers some of the highest wages for overseas workers, particularly for those with E7 visas, which are given to individuals with specialized skills and training.
Living costs in South Korea are relatively high but still lower than Japan and other markets. In return, South Korea offers a high quality of life and a professional working environment, making it an attractive destination for skilled labor.
