Technical Guidance (E-4) Visa — Eligibility, Period of Stay, Application, Extension, and Workplace Changes

Application for a Certificate of Visa Issuance (사증발급인정서 신청) (provision of advanced industrial technology)

• Application for Confirmation of Visa Issuance (사증발급인정신청서)
• Passport and one standard-size photograph
• Documents relating to the establishment of the inviting public or private institution
• Certificate of acceptance of the report on the technology introduction contract, technology introduction contract, or service transaction contract
• Dispatch order or certificate of employment

E-4 is included among the statuses eligible for electronic visa issuance. For an application submitted by a representative, a power of attorney, the representative’s certificate of employment, and the representative’s identification must also be provided.

Change of status of stay

• Application form, passport, and Alien Registration Card
• Dispatch order or certificate of employment
• Certificate of acceptance of the report on the technology introduction contract, technology introduction contract, or documents relating to the service transaction
• Copy of business registration certificate
• If required, employment recommendation from the head of the competent ministry

To change from Study (D-2) or Job Seeking (D-10), you must be staying legally, meet all eligibility requirements for E-4, and have entered into an employment contract. The fee for permission to change status of stay is KRW 100,000.

Extension of period of stay

• Application form, passport, and Alien Registration Card
• Dispatch order or certificate of employment
• Certificate of acceptance of the report on the technology introduction contract, technology introduction contract, or documents relating to the service transaction
• Copy of business registration certificate
• Documents proving place of residence

The fee for permission to extend the period of stay is KRW 60,000.

Report of change or addition of workplace

• Report of Change or Addition of Workplace (근무처 변경·추가 신고서), passport, and Alien Registration Card
• Business registration certificate
• Consent from the head of the original workplace
• Employment contract
• Certificate of acceptance of the report on the technology introduction contract, technology introduction contract, or a copy of the designation as a defense industry company, etc.

Report to the competent Immigration Office within 15 days from the date the reason for reporting arises. Consent from the head of the original workplace may be waived in cases such as when you have worked until the end of your contract period.

Foreign registration

• Application form, original passport, and one standard-size photograph
• Business registration certificate
• Documents proving place of residence

The fee for issuance of an Alien Registration Card is KRW 35,000.

Q. What kind of work can I do on an E-4 visa?

You may provide specialized knowledge in the natural sciences or technology in a specialized industrial field at a public or private institution. You must engage in work that falls within the scope of activities permitted under E-4 status.

Q. What is the maximum period of stay for E-4?

A period of stay of up to five years may be granted at a time. However, the period actually authorized may be limited to the validity of your passport.

Q. Can I apply for an electronic visa for E-4?

E-4 is included among the statuses eligible for electronic visa issuance. The foreign national or the person seeking to invite them may apply for an electronic visa.

Q. Can I change from D-2 or D-10 to E-4?

It may be possible. You must be staying legally, the activities you intend to undertake must qualify for E-4, and you must meet the eligibility requirements. You must also enter into an employment contract with the head of the relevant institution or organization.

Q. Can I teach at a university on E-4?

An E-4 holder who intends to teach at a university for no more than 90 days may apply for permission to engage in activities outside their status of stay under Short-Term Employment (C-4-5). The application documents listed in the manual include a recommendation letter from the university president or dean, an employment contract, and consent from the head of the original workplace.

Q. When must I report a change or addition to my workplace on E-4?

You must report the change to the competent Immigration Office (출입국·외국인관서) within 15 days from the date the reason for reporting arises. You must also meet the eligibility requirements needed to work at the changed or additional workplace.

Q. Do I need documents proving my place of residence when extending my period of stay for E-4?

Yes. The listed documents to prove your place of residence include a lease agreement, confirmation of accommodation provision, utility payment receipts, and dormitory fee receipts.

Q. Do E-4 holders need separate permission to study at a regular educational institution?

You do not need to obtain separate permission during your period of stay to receive education at an elementary, middle, or high school, or at a university, as long as it does not interfere with the original purpose of your stay.