Professional Employment (E-7) / Top-Tier Visa
Professional Employment (E-7) / Top-Tier Visa is a residence route in South Korea (Employment). E-7: Korean employer, degree + experience, salary ≥ minimum (≈80% GNI). Top-Tier visa (launched late 2025) for globally top-ranked talent with high income in advanced industries. Low confidence on Top-Tier criteria. Gov fees ~KRW 530,000 for family.
Requirements at a glance
There is no minimum stay to keep the permit. Spouse and children can usually be included. Permanent residence: after 5 years. Citizenship can be possible after about 5 years.
How holders are taxed
Optional flat 19% on Korean employment income; remittance basis for foreign income first 5 yrs.
Next steps
Check the official page for the current rules and fees, compare this route with the other programmes on the interactive map, and talk to a licensed immigration lawyer or authorised agent before applying.
| Category | Employment |
|---|---|
| Investment | — |
| Fees (family) | CHF 300 |
| Income / yr | — |
| Assets | — |
| Min. stay | 0 |
| PR | 5 |
| Citizenship | 5 |
| Work | yes |
| Eligible | all |
| Tax | Optional flat 19% on Korean employment income; remittance basis for foreign income first 5 yrs. |
| As of | 2026-10 |
General information only — not tax, legal, immigration, investment or financial advice, and no client relationship. Figures are simplified, indicative and may be out of date. Always verify with the official authority and a licensed professional in the country concerned before acting. Partner links, if any, are marked and may earn us a fee.