What degree do I need for an E-7 visa?

Typically a degree relevant to the job, plus related experience. Substantial experience can sometimes substitute for a degree, depending on the occupation.

Is there a minimum salary for the E-7?

Yes — the offer should meet the wage guideline for your occupation. The exact figure is updated periodically, so confirm the current guideline for your role.

How do I know if my job qualifies?

Your role must map to an approved E-7 occupation code, and your background must fit that code's requirements. If it's unclear, get it assessed before your employer files.

Can experience replace a degree?

For some occupations, yes — significant relevant experience can offset the lack of a degree. It depends on the specific code and your evidence.

Does the employer matter for E-7 approval?

Yes. The sponsoring company's legitimacy, size, and finances can affect approval, since the visa is employer-sponsored.

E-7 Visa Requirements: Degree, Experience & Salary

The E-7 visa requirements come down to a three-way fit: your job, your credentials, and your salary. Get all three aligned and approval is realistic; miss one and it stalls. Here's what each means in practice.

Already have an offer? Ask a consultant to check your E-7 fit.

1. A qualifying occupation

Your role must map to an approved E-7 occupation code. Korea maintains a list spanning management, engineering, IT, design, research, and specialized services. The key question: does your job match a code — and does your background fit that code's requirements?

2. Degree + experience

Most codes expect a relevant degree plus related experience. For some occupations, substantial experience can substitute for a degree. Your evidence (transcripts, career certificates, portfolios) needs to clearly connect your background to the role.

3. Salary guideline

The offer should meet the wage guideline for your occupation — this protects both you and the labor market. The exact figure is updated periodically, so verify the current guideline for your specific role rather than relying on an old number.

The employer counts too

Because the E-7 is employer-sponsored, the sponsoring company's registration, finances, and legitimacy factor into approval. A well-documented, stable employer strengthens your case.

Quick self-check

✅ My job matches an approved occupation code
✅ My degree/experience fits that code
✅ My salary meets the current guideline
✅ My employer can document the role and its need

If you can't confidently tick all four, resolve the gap before filing.

How Langle can help

Langle's consultants pre-check the job-code/credential/salary fit and prepare the document set with your employer, so you don't discover a mismatch after submitting. Start free on our visa consulting page.

General information, not legal advice. Rules and occupation lists change; verify on HiKorea or with a consultant before applying.