When can I apply to extend my E-7 (Special Activities) period of stay, and what documents do I need?

You must apply to extend your E-7 period of stay before your period of stay expires. The documents include the application form, employment contract, proof of income, and proof of business registration.

When to apply

• First, the Immigration Office (출입국·외국인청) checks whether you applied before your period of stay expires.¹
• Even if the remaining period of stay on the application date is 2 months or more, your application can be accepted and reviewed if there is a valid reason.¹
• In general, it is safer to apply with some time to spare rather than right before expiration. The exact start date for accepting applications was not confirmed in the sources. Please check on HiKorea (하이코리아).

Documents to submit

1. Application form (Form No. 34, 별지 34호 서식), passport, Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증), fee [3]
2. Employment contract [3]
3. Proof of personal income (required): Certificate of Income Amount (소득금액증명원) from the tax office, or the company's Withholding Record of Earned Income (근로소득원천징수부) [3]
4. Copy of Business Registration Certificate (사업자등록증) or Corporate Registry Certificate (법인등기부등본) [3]
5. Original Letter of Identity Guarantee (신원보증서): Only some occupations need this, such as mechanical engineers, designers, and head chefs and cooks. [3]

If needed for the review, you may be asked to submit 1 to 2 more documents.¹

⚠️ Things to note

• The permitted period is the employment contract period plus 1 month, up to a maximum of 3 years.¹
• Documents may differ depending on your occupation or situation. Approval is not guaranteed. For final confirmation, please check HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the Korea Immigration Contact Center (외국인종합안내센터) at 1345.