Korean requirement for the E-7-4 visa
For E-7-4, the Korean-ability requirement is met by any one of: ① TOPIK Level 2 or higher, ② completing KIIP (Social Integration Program) Stage 2, or ③ being assigned Stage 3 or higher in the KIIP pre-test.
What E-7-4 is
E-7-4 (skilled worker) is a status that workers on E-9, E-10, H-2 and similar visas can move to after working in Korea for a qualifying period and passing a points-based assessment. It allows longer stays and family accompaniment, so it is the target for people who want to keep working in Korea long term.
How the Korean requirement is proven
| Route | What it means |
|---|---|
| TOPIK | A TOPIK Level 2+ result (check validity period) |
| KIIP completion | Completing KIIP Stage 2 or higher |
| Pre-test placement | Being placed at Stage 3+ in the KIIP pre-test |
The easiest route differs per person. If you have already been studying Korean, TOPIK Level 2 is often fastest; if you can enrol in a local KIIP course, the completion route is steady.
Other requirements
E-7-4 is a points system that also adds up income, work experience, age and assets. Core items (income and Korean) each have a minimum, and there is a total-score threshold. The exact point tables are revised often, so always check the current notice.
E-7-4 criteria (point tables, income thresholds, quotas) change frequently under immigration policy. Check Hi Korea (hikorea.go.kr) and your local immigration office before applying. This page is a summary for reference.