Can I change from E-2 (Foreign Language Instructor) to another status of stay?

Yes, you can. You must meet the requirements of the status you want. You must also get permission for a change of status of stay before you start that activity¹.

Basic steps

• To do the activities of another status, you must first get permission for a change of status¹.
• Submit the application form and the required documents to your local immigration office (출입국·외국인관서)².
• When permission is granted, you receive a new Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증) or a permit sticker in your passport².

Examples of changes people often consider (general cases)

• Professional job: Specially Designated Activities (E-7)
• Job seeking: Job Seeker (D-10)
• Marriage to a Korean: Marriage Migrant (F-6)
• Long-term stay: Resident (F-2), Permanent Resident (F-5)
• Study: Study Abroad (D-2)

Each status has different requirements, such as education, work experience and income. The requirements also change often. Please check the exact criteria separately.

Sometimes you do not need a change of status

• If you stay in E-2 and only move to another academy or school, or add a workplace, it is not a change of status. You must report the change or addition of workplace. You must do this within 15 days of the date the reason for the report arose⁴.
• On the other hand, teaching literature or translation and interpretation techniques in a foreign language is not conversation instruction³. You may need a different permit to do this kind of work.

⚠️ Points to note

• If you start a new job before you get permission, it may be a violation of your stay.
• Apply before your current period of stay ends. If it has already expired or your application was denied, please get a consultation with K-VISA AI Administrative Agent (K-VISA AI 행정사).
• Permission is decided by examination. For final confirmation, check HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the Foreigner Information Center (외국인종합안내센터) (1345).