Skilled Worker
A skilled-worker visa for foreigners who have built up on-the-job skills in Korea under non-professional or working-visit statuses (E-9, E-10, H-2) and pass a points-based evaluation to transition. It is a step up from basic-skill work toward more stable employment and longer stay. Unlike the professional track (E-7-1), it recognizes hands-on field experience.
Who it’s for
For foreign workers who have gained hands-on experience in fields like manufacturing, agriculture/livestock, or fisheries and want to move up from basic-skill to skilled-worker status.
What you can do
You can work as skilled labor within the designated eligible fields. Exact occupations and the scope of activity can change with policy, so always check the residence-status guide on HiKorea.
Key points
- It is a "transition" visa from basic-skill to skilled-worker, so it usually builds on your stay and work history in Korea
- Selection uses a points system combining income, Korean, experience, etc. — scores and cutoffs vary by policy, so check the app's K-Point calculator
- Once transitioned, stay and employment are generally more stable than basic-skill statuses
- This is different from the F-2-7 residence points system — F-2-7 looks at residence points like education/income, while this looks at field skill (don't confuse them)
- Exact requirements and documents depend on your situation and policy, so verify with HiKorea or a professional
Transition paths
There is a path to transition to E-7-4 once you meet requirements after working on E-9, E-10, or H-2 (transition is not guaranteed). You can gauge your score in advance with the app's K-Point calculator. It may also lead on toward long-term residence or permanent residence later.
Related visas
This is general information and has no legal force. Actual eligibility and requirements depend on your situation and policy — before applying, verify with official sources such as Hi Korea and a professional (e.g., a licensed administrative agent).
Last updated: 2026-06-09