What is the H-2 Working Visit Visa?
The H-2 Working Visit Visa allows ethnic Koreans from China and former Soviet Union countries to legally work in South Korea. Unlike the E-9 non-professional employment visa, H-2 holders can job-search independently and access a broader range of industries.
Eligibility Requirements
- Ethnic Korean nationals from China or former Soviet states (Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, etc.)
- Age 18 or older
- No criminal record
- No infectious diseases (e.g., tuberculosis)
Note: H-2 is only available to ethnic Koreans from China and former Soviet countries, and is separate from the F-4 Overseas Korean visa.
How to Apply
Lottery Selection
A government-set annual quota determines how many H-2 visas are issued. Applicants may be selected by random draw.
Direct Application (No Lottery)
You may apply without the lottery if you meet any of the following:
- Age 60 or older
- Have a direct family member in Korea
- Previously held H-2 and departed normally
- Passed TOPIK Level 1+ or completed the Social Integration Program
Required Documents
- Passport (valid for 6+ months)
- Visa application form
- 1 passport photo (taken within 6 months)
- Ethnic Korean documentation (family register, nationality certificate, etc.)
- Criminal background check (issued by home country police)
- Tuberculosis test result (designated hospital)
Stay Duration
- Initial entry: up to 3 years
- Extension: up to 3 more years (max total: 4 years 10 months)
- Re-entry after departure: must wait at least 1 year before re-applying
Allowed Industries
| Sector | Examples |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing | Food processing, garment, metal/machinery parts |
| Construction | Building and civil engineering sites |
| Services | Restaurants, cleaning, caregiving, housekeeping |
| Agriculture | Farming, livestock, fishery |
Professional fields (medical, legal, IT development, office work) are not permitted.
Employment Process
- Register as a jobseeker on Work-net or visit an Employment Center
- Sign a labor contract with an employer
- Employer reports the hire to the Employment Center
- Enroll in health insurance and national pension
DODREAM Can Help
From application to extension, our visa specialists at DODREAM handle every step for you.
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