Work visas
South Korean E-9 Non-Professional Employment Visa (EPS)
For workers recruited into manufacturing, construction, agriculture and other sectors under the Employment Permit System.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Annual quotas, eligible sending countries and maximum period of stay for E-9 are unverified here and must be confirmed with the Korea Immigration Service and EPS authorities.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official South Korea government website before you apply.
On this page
- Official name
- Non-Professional Employment (E-9)
- Route type
- Employment Permit System (EPS) work visa
- Sectors
- Manufacturing, construction, agriculture, fishing and designated services
- Quota
- Subject to annual government quotas
Who it is for
- Workers from EPS partner countries recruited into designated labour-short sectors
- Employers unable to fill vacancies with domestic labour
- Non-professional / lower-skilled roles rather than professional occupations
Requirements
- Recruitment through the Employment Permit System and a sending-country roster
- An approved Korean employer with an employment permit
- Compliance with EPS conditions including any language/skills testing
How to apply
- Register and be selected through the EPS process in your home country
- Employer obtains the employment permit and confirmation of visa issuance
- Enter Korea and complete required registration and onboarding
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
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