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Sep 21, 20233 min

The Complete Guide to the H-1 Visa: The Working Holiday Visa in South Korea

Updated: Dec 5, 2023

Looking for a job in Korea? Apply here.

The Working Holiday Program in Korea is intended for young people who want to learn about South Korean culture while also funding their travels through part-time work. The H-1 visa allows you to travel in and out of Korea, making it an excellent choice for those who want to work and travel.

I. H-1 Eligibility and Application

A. Basic Requirements

  • Eligible Ages: Applicants must be between 18 to 30 years old.

  • Eligible Countries: Applicants from only the following countries may apply.

Australia
 
Austria
 
Belgium
 
Canada

Chile
 
Czech Republic
 
Denmark
 
France
 
Germany

Hong Kong
 
Hungary
 
Ireland
 
Israel
 
Italy
 
Japan
 
Netherlands
 
New Zealand
 
Norway
 
Poland
 
Portugal
 
Spain
 
Sweden
 
Taiwan
 
UK
 
USA


 
The general duration of stay for these countries is 12 months, with extensions available for U.S. and U.K. citizens.

  • Passport Validity: Your passport must remain valid for at least 1 year from the application date.

  • Financial Proof: Before arriving, ensure you have a bank statement displaying a minimum of KRW 3,000,000 in savings.

  • Return Journey: Possession of a return flight ticket or funds sufficient to purchase one.

  • Insurance: Acquire special insurance that covers the entirety of your Working Holiday period in Korea.

B. Application Process

  • Gather all necessary documentation. This may vary depending on your country but typically includes items such as medical check-ups, e-visa forms, and criminal record checks.

  • Draft your "travel plan" document detailing your intentions and timeline while in Korea.

  • Acquire an insurance certificate with coverage including civil liability, repatriation, disease, maternity, disability, and hospitalization, with a minimum coverage of 40,000,000 won.

  • Submit your application in person at your local Korean embassy. Applications are processed within 5 to 14 working days, though this can differ based on the embassy.

  • Once your visa is granted, pay close attention to its starting validity date to ensure timely arrival in Korea.

II. Preparation for Arrival

A. Learning Korean

Consider taking a Korean language course. While basic tasks can be managed without Korean proficiency, most job opportunities demand at least an elementary understanding of the language.
 

 
From Beginner to TOPIK Success: Free Study Materials for Learning Korean


 
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From Integration to Employment: The KIIP Program and Job Prospects in South Korea

B. H-1 Visa Jobs and Restrictions

  • Holders of the Working Holiday Visa face certain job restrictions. Prohibited fields include roles such as teachers, managers, artists, and researchers. However, jobs in the hospitality sector, such as positions in coffee shops, restaurants, and hotels, are permissible.

C. Korean Minimum Wage Details

  • You're typically restricted to working no more than 25 hours per week.

  • As of 2022, the minimum wage in Korea stands at 9,160 KRW per hour. Ensure your compensation respects this threshold.

III. Upon Arrival in Korea

A. Alien Registration Card (ARC)

  • Within 90 days of entering Korea, secure your Alien Card Registration (ARC) at the nearest Korea Immigration Office.

  • Come prepared with the necessary documents: a copy of your passport, a photo with a white background, and your rental agreement.

B. Change of Address Protocols

  • If you change addresses, you are obligated to notify authorities (call 1345) within 14 days.

C Health and Insurance

  • After a 3-month stay in Korea, you become eligible for the National Health Insurance (NHI). However, remember, this does not replace the necessity of your Working Holiday Insurance.

IV. Transitioning to Other Visas

If you've been offered a job and seek to switch to a working visa, only citizens from the U.K., France, Ireland, and Denmark can transition before the conclusion of their H1 visa. This applies specifically to those aiming for the E-7 visa.

V. Conclusion

The Working Holiday Program in Korea offers an exceptional opportunity to immerse oneself in Korean culture while financially supporting one's travels. While procedures and regulations must be followed, the enriching experiences and memories gained make the trip worthwhile.

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