South Korea offers various types of work visas for Indian nationals, depending on the type of work you intend to do. The most common work visas include:
1. E-1 Visa (Professor)
- For individuals who plan to teach or conduct research at educational institutions in South Korea.
2. E-2 Visa (Foreign Language Instructor)
- For those looking to work as foreign language teachers, typically English, in schools, academies, or institutes.
3. E-3 Visa (Researcher)
- For individuals involved in research and development in natural sciences or technology-related fields.
4. E-4 Visa (Technological Guidance)
- For professionals with expertise in a specific technology who are hired to provide technical guidance.
5. E-5 Visa (Professional Employment)
- Issued to licensed professionals such as lawyers, doctors, and accountants intending to work in their respective fields in South Korea.
6. E-6 Visa (Arts and Entertainment)
- For artists, entertainers, and individuals working in the entertainment industry, including modeling, performance, or broadcasting.
7. E-7 Visa (Specially Designated Activities)
- For professionals employed in specialized fields that do not fall under other E-category visas. This is the most common visa for skilled professionals in IT, engineering, manufacturing, etc.
8. D-5 Visa (Journalism)
- For foreign correspondents or journalists sent to Korea to cover news for overseas media.
9. D-7 Visa (Intra-Company Transfer)
- For employees transferred to the South Korean branch, subsidiary, or affiliate of their company.
10. H-1 Visa (Working Holiday Visa)
- Available to young adults from select countries, including India, allowing them to work part-time while traveling.
General Requirements:
- Job Offer: You need a confirmed job offer from a South Korean employer before applying.
- Documents: These typically include:
- Passport with at least 6 months of validity
- Completed visa application form
- Employment contract or proof of employment
- Visa fee
- Academic and professional certificates
- Health and criminal background check (depending on the visa category)
- Work permit (for some categories)
Application Process:
- Receive Job Offer: Secure employment with a South Korean company.
- Visa Sponsorship: Your employer must act as a visa sponsor and submit relevant documents to the immigration office in South Korea.
- Visa Application: Once your documents are approved, apply for the visa at the South Korean embassy or consulate in India.
- Visa Processing: The processing time may vary, but it typically takes between 7 to 10 working days.
For detailed information on visa types and the specific requirements, it’s best to check the official website of the South Korean Embassy in India or contact them directly.
