D-2 유학생에서 E-7 취업비자로 변경하는 방법

Note when your D-2 expires (it is usually tied to your enrollment period). If you are planning to stay after graduation, begin the switch process 2–3 months before your D-2 expires. Do not wait until after graduation if your D-2 is about to expire.

If you do not yet have a job offer, apply for D-10 at your local immigration office before your D-2 expires. Required documents: passport, ARC, application form, graduation certificate (졸업증명서), and proof of financial means. D-10 gives you 6–12 months to secure a job offer.

Find an employer willing to sponsor an E-7. The job must be on the E-7 approved occupation list and match your degree field. Confirm with the employer that they are willing to prepare the immigration sponsorship package — not all Korean companies are familiar with this process.

Your employer must prepare: business registration certificate, recent financial statements or tax payment certificate, employment contract (showing salary at or above GNI threshold for E-7-1), corporate seal documents, and a cover letter explaining why a foreign national is being hired for this role. In some occupations, a quota check with immigration is required first.

You and your employer submit the E-7 application at the local immigration office. You bring: passport, ARC, application form, degree certificate (apostilled or Korean equivalency if needed), relevant certifications, and your copy of the employment contract. Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks.

Once approved, collect your updated ARC showing E-7 status. You can begin work on the E-7 status start date. Your previous D-2 or D-10 status is cancelled.