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E-6 · Arts & Entertainment
E-6 Arts & Entertainment Visa – Requirements & Process
E-6 Arts & Entertainment Visa — This page covers the E-6 visa for foreign performers, musicians, entertainers, and athletes working in Korea. Requirements, sub-types, documents, and the application process are explained below, based on the official Immigration & Foreigner Policy Manual.
1. Overview
The E-6 visa (Arts & Entertainment) is issued to foreign nationals who perform or otherwise engage in arts, entertainment, or sporting activities in Korea as their primary occupation. This includes professional musicians, vocalists, dancers, actors, comedians, circus performers, athletes, coaches, and support staff directly connected to performances.
The E-6 visa requires a specific contract with a Korean arts organization, entertainment company, sports team, or performance venue. The visa is tied to the sponsoring organization.
2. E-6 Sub-Types
Type
Description
E-6-1
Performers at accredited arts and culture institutions (concerts, theaters, cultural events, broadcast performances)
E-6-2
Performers at entertainment establishments such as hotel lounges, nightclubs, and bars. Subject to additional screening.
E-6-3
Athletes and professional sports coaches contracted with Korean sports teams or organizations
3. Eligibility Requirements
Valid contract with a Korean arts organization, entertainment company, sports team, or performance venue
Demonstrated professional experience or qualification in the relevant field (performing arts, sports, etc.)
The sponsoring Korean organization must be legally registered and meet immigration eligibility criteria
No history of immigration violations or serious criminal convictions
E-6-2 applicants are subject to additional screening by immigration to verify working conditions and prevent exploitation
4. Required Documents
Category
Documents
Notes
Common
Application form, passport, photo (3.5×4.5 cm)
Photo within 6 months
Contract
Performance/employment contract with Korean organization (must specify role, duration, compensation)
Both parties must sign
Sponsoring org
Korean organization's business registration certificate, company profile
Must be eligible to sponsor E-6
Professional credentials
Portfolio, performance history, awards, agent certification, professional association membership (as applicable)
Required to demonstrate professional standing
Criminal record
Criminal background check (apostilled) from home country
Especially required for E-6-2
Document requirements vary by sub-type and the nature of the performance venue. Contact us for a complete case-specific checklist.
5. Application Process
Secure a performance or employment contract from a Korean organization
Korean sponsoring organization submits documents to obtain a Certificate of Visa Issuance (CVI)
For E-6-2: additional screening process is carried out before CVI is issued
Applicant applies for the E-6 visa at the Korean embassy/consulate in their home country using the CVI
Enter Korea and register as a foreigner (ARC) within 90 days of entry
Perform activities only as permitted by the visa conditions — working outside the contracted scope is not permitted
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can K-pop idols and their staff use the E-6 visa?
A. Yes. Performing artists signed with a Korean entertainment agency typically apply for E-6-1 if they perform at venues such as concert halls. The agency acts as the sponsoring organization. Background staff such as managers may need a different visa category.
Q. Why is there additional screening for E-6-2?
A. E-6-2 covers performers at nightlife entertainment establishments (lounges, clubs), which historically had higher risk of labor exploitation. Immigration conducts additional checks on the sponsoring establishment and the applicant's contract conditions to ensure proper working conditions.
Q. Can a professional athlete apply for E-6?
A. Yes. E-6-3 is specifically for professional athletes and coaches contracted with Korean sports teams. This covers football, basketball, baseball, volleyball, and other professional leagues.
Q. Is the consultation free?
A. Yes, the initial consultation is free. Contact us in English, Korean, Chinese, or Japanese.
