Can I change from E-7 (Specific Activities) to another status of stay?

Yes, you can. However, you must get permission for a change of status of stay from the Minister of Justice (법무부장관) before you start the activities of the new status¹. Whether you are approved depends on the requirements of the status you want and the result of the review.

Application steps

1. Check the requirements of the status you want to change to, and prepare the documents that prove you meet them.
2. Attach the documents to the application form for change of status of stay and submit it to the Immigration Office (출입국·외국인관서) that has jurisdiction over you².
3. If approved, a permission sticker is put in your passport, or you receive a new Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증)².

In general, you can make a visit reservation on HiKorea (하이코리아) or apply through the e-application service.

Statuses people often change to

• Residence (거주) (F-2): if you meet set requirements, such as the points system
• Permanent Residence (영주) (F-5): if you meet requirements such as length of stay and income
• Marriage Immigrant (결혼이민) (F-6): if you are married to a Korean national
• Study Abroad (유학) (D-2) · Job Seeking (구직) (D-10): if you start studying, or look for a job after leaving your company

Requirements and documents are different for each status. Be sure to check the latest guidance for the exact figures.

⚠️ Things to be careful about

• If you start a new activity (a new job, studies, etc.) before you get permission, it may be a violation of your stay.
• Moving to a different company within the same E-7 status is generally a "change of workplace" procedure. It is handled separately from a change of status of stay.
• If your period of stay has already expired, you were refused, or your situation is complicated, get a consultation from K-VISA AI Administrative Agent (K-VISA AI 행정사) (the visa service in the app).

For final confirmation, contact HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the Immigration Contact Center (외국인종합안내센터) (1345).