Can Foreign Workers Change Jobs in Korea Without Losing Their Visa?
Many foreign workers in Korea believe they cannot change jobs due to visa restrictions. In reality, job transfers are possible under specific legal conditions.
Why Job Changes Are Restricted for Some Foreign Workers
Certain Korean work visas are tied to a specific employer. This means that a job change requires approval from immigration authorities before the worker can legally move to another company.
Visa Types That Allow Job Changes
- E-7 Skilled Worker Visa
- D-10 Job Seeking Visa
- F-2 / F-5 / F-6 Residence Visas
Workers holding residence-based visas such as F-2 or F-6 generally have much greater job mobility.
Steps to Change Jobs Legally
- Obtain a job offer from the new employer
- Prepare contract and employment documents
- Submit change-of-workplace request to immigration
- Wait for approval before starting the new job
Common Mistakes That Lead to Visa Problems
- Starting a new job before approval
- Working part-time outside visa conditions
- Failing to report employer change
- Missing reporting deadlines
For official regulations regarding workplace changes, visit:
Related work guidance can also be found here:
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