the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Pakistan has updated requirements for long-term visas (more than 91 days) including mandatory tuberculosis (TB) screening for applicants. Other rules have also been clarified more recently via the Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Korea.
What is the EPS / E-9 Visa System
- The EPS stands for Employment Permit System. It is a government to government program that allows skilled and semi skilled workers to work legally in South Korea under the E-9 visa.
- The E-9 visa is typically used for non professional labour categories. Pakistani workers can go under this visa through the OEC.
Duration & Renewal of E-9 (EPS) Visa
- Under the E-9 visa via the EPS system Pakistani workers may stay in South Korea for up to 4 years and 10 months if they do not change employers.
- If they change employer the duration or ability to renew might be affected.
Who can apply: Eligibility Criteria for E-9 (EPS)
To apply under EPS or E-9 Pakistani nationals generally must meet all of the following
- Be of valid age often 18 to 39 years both male and female.
- Hold a valid Pakistani passport with sufficient remaining validity.
- No more than 5 years prior illegal stay in Korea.
- No criminal record in Pakistan.
- Pass medical screening including TB screening for stays over 91 days.
- Pass Korean language test (EPS-TOPIK) and skill test.
Read More: Study in US Without IELTS 2025 Universities and Visa Requirements
Documents Required for E-9 Visa (EPS)
Here are typical documents you will need
- Passport valid for at least 6 months and copies
- Passport size photos
- Medical certificate TB screening report for stay more than 91 days
- Proof of no criminal record
- EPS-TOPIK test result
- Skill or competence test result
- Standard labour contract after job offer
- Bank statements identity documents CNIC photographs and any other requirements from OEC or embassy
Steps or Process for Applying via OEC or EPS
- Pre registration online via OEC Pakistan
- Pay challan fees submit original passport CNIC photographs and other documents
- Pass EPS-TOPIK (Korean language) then skill test
- Once selected sign standard labour contract undergo preliminary training (language culture safety) by OEC
- Obtain visa from Korean Embassy in Pakistan
- Travel to Korea and start employment
Other Work Visas: E-7 (Special Ability or Professionals)
If you are more qualified there are other visa categories
- The E-7 visa is for foreigners with special ability or professional skills in occupations that are in demand in Korea
- Eligibility often includes having a relevant bachelor’s degree or higher or several years of relevant experience. The job must match your background
- Employers must often demonstrate that the job cannot be easily filled by a Korean. There may also be wage requirements which must be comparable or above certain thresholds
Document Requirements for E-7 Visa
For E-7 in addition to many items above you will also usually need
- Employment contract from a Korean employer
- Academic degree or transcript
- Work experience letters
- The company registration documents proof of needing a foreign expert
- Photo passport and other supporting papers
Processing Time & Interview
- Embassy processing time for visa applications takes roughly 3 weeks or more after submission
- You must appear in person for visa submission
- There could be additional health tests especially TB for long-term visas
Fees & Medical Requirements
- Visa fees depend on category. For long-term visas and depending on type (E-9 or E-7) there will be set fees which must be paid. Exact fees can vary so check embassy or OEC
- Medical test includes general health and TB screening when the stay is more than 91 days. The TB screening must be done in designated hospitals
Conditions After Arrival
- Once in Korea workers usually need to register with immigration authorities if staying long term
- You may need an Alien Registration Card (ARC)
- Dependents such as spouse or children may apply for dependent visas (F-3) but this depends on visa type
Common Problems & Tips
- Make sure all documents are translated if required and apostilled or notarized where needed
- Ensure the job offer matches your qualifications. If background does not fit the job description visa may be denied
- Apply early and follow embassy or OEC instructions exactly
Latest Changes or Updates (2025)
- TB screening requirement for applicants applying for stay more than 91 days effective 2 June 2025
- Some changes in the EPS pre registration schedules and document requirements for Pakistani applicants through OEC have been implemented
How to Prepare Best
- Check the OEC Pakistan website often for openings and dates for pre registration
- Start gathering your certificates educational documents and experience letters early
- Prepare for EPS-TOPIK (language test) get practice in reading and listening Korean
- Do your medical check ups especially TB ahead so nothing delays you
Conclusion
If you are a Pakistani planning to work in South Korea in 2025 the most accessible route is via the EPS or E-9 visa for non professional workers. You will need to go through pre registration pass language and skill tests submit required documents and obtain your visa via the embassy. For those with higher qualifications and special skills the E-7 visa is an option but it usually has stricter requirements. Always make sure you meet the medical requirements especially TB translate documents correctly follow the updated rules and prepare well in advance of deadlines. With careful preparation you can increase your chances of getting the work visa smoothly.
