South KoreaWhat is the procedure for changing to a work visa?
To change to a work visa in South Korea, you must apply for a Change of Status of Sojourn (COSS) at a local Immigration Office before your current visa expires, with employer sponsorship, valid employment contract, and required documents.
What the Law Says
South Korean immigration law governs visa status changes through the Immigration Act and its Enforcement Decree. A foreign national already in Korea on a non-work visa may apply to change to a work-authorized status—such as E-1 (professor), E-2 (teaching), E-5 (professional), or E-7 (specific activities)—provided they meet eligibility criteria and submit a complete application before their current stay expires.
The Immigration Act authorizes the Minister of Justice to approve changes in status of sojourn if the applicant satisfies statutory conditions, including lawful entry, no violation of immigration laws, and eligibility for the new status.
Applicants must hold a valid passport, have no disqualifying criminal record, and be sponsored by a registered Korean employer (for most work visas). The employer must verify job legitimacy and often obtain prior approval (e.g., an Employment Permit or Quota Confirmation) depending on visa type.
Applications must be submitted to a regional Immigration Office in Korea—not at embassies abroad—and are subject to verification of documents such as employment contracts, company registration, academic credentials, and tax/payment records.
Statutory TextA foreign national who is staying in the Republic of Korea may apply to the Minister of Justice for a change of status of sojourn, if he or she satisfies the requirements prescribed by Presidential Decree.
— Immigration Act, s. 24 — Change of Status of Sojourn
Statutory TextThe Minister of Justice shall grant permission for a change of status of sojourn only when the foreign national has entered the Republic of Korea lawfully and is staying within the period of sojourn permitted under the Act.
— Immigration Act, s. 24(2)
What to Do
Confirm your current visa allows COSS (e.g., D-2, D-4, B-2, or C-3 are generally eligible; tourist C-3-1 usually is not)
Secure a job offer and signed employment contract from a Korean employer registered with the Ministry of Justice
Gather required documents: passport, Alien Registration Card, contract, company business license, academic/certification documents, criminal record check, and fee payment receipt (KRW 60,000)
Submit the Change of Status of Sojourn (Form No. 8) online via Hi-Korea or in person at a local Immigration Office at least 30 days before your current stay expires
Attend biometrics appointment if requested, and await decision (typically 5–10 working days)
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.