E-7 Visa Extension and Salary Requirements Korea 2026

# E-7 Visa Extension and Salary Requirements Korea 2026

The E-7 (Specific Activities) visa is South Korea's primary work visa for skilled foreign professionals in designated occupations. Every year, a significant number of E-7 holders have their extensions denied — often due to misunderstanding the salary threshold or missing documentation. This guide covers everything you need to know to successfully extend your E-7 visa in 2026.

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1. Basic Extension Requirements

To extend an E-7 visa, all of the following conditions must be met:

• Continuous employment: Your employment contract with the sponsoring employer must remain valid.
• Salary requirement: Monthly gross salary must equal or exceed 80% of Korea's per-capita GNI.
• Tax compliance: You must have a clean record of income tax payments.
• Application timing: Applications open 4 months before the expiry date. Do not wait until the last minute.
• No immigration violations: No criminal record or violations of the Immigration Control Act.

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2. 2026 Salary Threshold in Detail

The GNI 80% Rule

The Ministry of Justice sets the E-7 salary floor at 80% of the previous year's per-capita Gross National Income (GNI).

Key points:
- The threshold is based on gross base salary (pre-tax).
- Irregular allowances such as performance bonuses, meal allowances, and transportation subsidies are generally excluded.
- The GNI threshold is revised annually. Always verify the current figure with the Ministry of Justice before applying.

> Note: The 2026 minimum wage (KRW 10,030/hour) is a separate standard. E-7 holders must meet the GNI-based threshold, which is typically higher.

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3. Required Documents

Prepare the following documents before submitting your extension application:

Additional documents may be required depending on company size, occupation category, or individual circumstances.

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4. How to Apply and Processing Times

Online via HiKorea

The Korea Immigration Service operates an online portal at www.hikorea.go.kr.

1. Log in to HiKorea and navigate to "Extension of Stay."
2. Complete the application form and upload documents as PDF files.
3. Pay the application fee (KRW 60,000 — card payment accepted).
4. Track the result online.

In-Person Application

Visit the immigration office or branch that has jurisdiction over your place of residence, bringing all original documents.

Processing Time and Fee

• Processing time: Approximately 2–4 weeks (longer during peak seasons)
• Application fee: KRW 60,000
• Note: Your stay is not automatically extended upon submission. Monitor the outcome before your current permit expires.

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5. Changing Workplaces — Mandatory Reporting

If you change employers while holding an E-7 visa, you must report the change within 15 days of the effective date.

• How to report: Visit the competent immigration office or use HiKorea online.
• Penalty for non-reporting: Violation of the Immigration Control Act, potential fines, and risk of forced deportation.
• When switching jobs, the new employer may need to submit a sponsorship letter or confirmation documents.

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6. Common Reasons for Denial and How to Respond

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7. Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How early can I apply to extend my E-7 visa?
You may apply up to 4 months before your current stay permit expires. Never let it lapse — overstaying triggers illegal-stay status immediately.

Q. What happens if my salary falls below the GNI 80% threshold?
Falling below the threshold is one of the most common grounds for extension denial. You should negotiate a salary increase with your employer or explore switching to another visa category.

Q. Do I need to report if I change employers while on an E-7 visa?
Yes. You must report any workplace change within 15 days of the change to the competent immigration office or via HiKorea. Failure to report can result in deportation.

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