Hello, This is Administrative Attorney Ko Woonseok, assisting foreigners with their stay in Korea.
Today, I would like to share some important insights on how to successfully and quickly obtain the Regional Specialized Skilled Worker Visa (E74R), which has been officially implemented since April and is now proceeding at a very rapid pace.
If you are planning to transfer from a non-depopulation area to a depopulation area or an area of interest for depopulation in order to successfully obtain the E74R visa, it is important to clearly understand and follow the points below.
First, the most critical factor for success is this: it is very difficult to succeed if you try to choose a company you prefer. Instead, you should promptly secure employment with a company that is willing to sponsor your E74R visa.
The E74R visa requires considerable time and procedural steps to obtain. Furthermore, since you must resign from your current position, any delay will make it increasingly difficult to find a matching company.
Second, the Regional Specialized Skilled Worker Visa (E74R) is primarily issued to workers who are already employed by the sponsoring company. Therefore, it is not easy for someone newly joining the company to secure an E74R visa.
Moreover, many E74R visa applicants are individuals who might not fully meet the requirements for the standard E74 visa, making companies hesitant to hire them. Consequently, delaying your decision in search of a "better" company often results in missing realistic opportunities.
Third, to obtain the E74R visa, you must be legally employed at a manufacturing company located in a designated depopulation area.
Only those currently holding an E-9 visa are eligible to apply for the E74R.
Unfortunately, some less knowledgeable administrative offices mistakenly explain that simply transferring from a company in the Seoul metropolitan area to a company in a depopulation area will automatically lead to an E74R visa approval — this is a serious misconception and could cause major problems.
Fourth, if your current visa is close to expiration, you must act quickly.
The E74R process takes more time than most people expect.
If you would like to know the specific reasons why the process is lengthy, please feel free to call for a detailed consultation.
Additionally, for foreign workers who are in their late 30s or 40s, there is no time to be selective about companies. It is crucial to accept an offer from any company willing to sponsor your E74 visa and to transition to the E74R visa as quickly as possible.
After working for two years under the E74R visa, you may transfer to another company within the designated area. After three years, you may even change your visa status to the Regional Specialized Residency Visa (F2R).
As age increases, finding a new job becomes increasingly difficult, so quick action is essential.
Today, I shared the key success factors based on my firsthand experience over the past month helping applicants obtain the Regional Specialized Skilled Worker Visa (E74R).
Please remember, the E74R visa involves a complex and delicate procedure. Without the assistance of an experienced professional, the process can be extremely challenging.
If you have any questions or require assistance, feel free to call me anytime.
Thank you.
