How do I look for a job after applying for an E-9 workplace change?

When you apply for a workplace change, you are registered as a job seeker at the Employment Center (고용센터). Job seeking usually works by being connected to workplaces that the Employment Center introduces. You must get permission to change your workplace from Immigration (출입국) within 3 months of the date you applied.

Documents to prepare for job seeking

• Job seeker registration certificate (구직등록필증) — You get it at the Employment Center. It proves you are looking for a job.
• Written pledge (서약서) — You submit it when you extend your stay during the job search. It is a promise that you will leave Korea on your own if you do not get permission within the period.
• Proof of residence (체류지 입증서류) — You can skip it if it is hard to submit. But you must write your real address on the application form.
• Basic documents (application form, passport, registration card)

How the process works

1. Job seeker registration and introductions: Be sure to give the Employment Center your contact number. If you get a call about a workplace introduction or an interview, answer right away.
2. New employer applies for employment permit: Once you find a place to work, the new employer applies for an employment permit at the Employment Center.
3. Extend your stay if needed: If your period of stay ends while you are looking for a job, apply to Immigration for an extension before it expires. This extension is free of charge.
4. Get permission to change your workplace: When the employment permit is issued, get permission to change your workplace from Immigration before you start work. For E-9, you can also apply at a nearby Immigration office, not only the one in charge of your address or workplace.
5. Start work after permission: When the workplace change permission is issued, start work at the new workplace.

⚠️ Be sure to follow these rules

• If you start work with only the employment permit and without workplace change permission, it is a violation of the Immigration Act. You may have to pay a fine.
• If you do not get permission within 3 months, you will have to leave Korea. If you could not look for a job because of an industrial accident, illness, pregnancy, or childbirth, get a "Confirmation of Extension of Workplace Change Application Period" (사업장변경신청기간 연장접수확인서) from the Employment Center. Attach a medical certificate and so on, and apply to Immigration for an extension before the period expires.
• If the 3 months are almost over or have already passed, it is hard to solve this alone. Try a K-VISA AI administrative agent consultation (Visa Service in the app).

Ask your nearest Employment Center about your progress from time to time. Check the Immigration procedures once more at HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or 1345.