Enhanced Skilled Workforce Program by the Ministry of Justice
Since its inception in 2017, the Ministry of Justice has been effectively rolling out the Skilled Foreign Worker (E-7-4) program. This initiative is designed to create a comprehensive pathway for long-term blue-collar workers, allowing them to transition to long-term employment visas that recognize their valuable skills.
Initially, the program allowed for a gradual rise in the number of E-7-4 visa transitions. The figures started at 1,000 and progressively increased to 1,250 and then to 2,000. For 2023, the target number of applicants was set at 3,000. Yet, in response to mounting criticism regarding the pervasive labor shortage in various sectors, the Ministry has opted to accelerate the selection process. As a result, they plan to complete the intake for the first half of the year and will continue to accept additional candidates in the latter half. This strategic move is aimed at stabilizing the supply of skilled labor across different industries.
Key Improvements in the E-7-4 Program
The overarching aim of enhancing the E-7-4 program is to support foreign workers in their pursuit of secure employment while acknowledging their long-standing service and skills in critical industries.
Relaxed Transition Requirements
One notable improvement is the reduction of the required working period from five years to four, which serves to ease the transition for those workers with shorter employment histories who wish to enter the skilled workforce category.
Increased Foreign Employment by Company Size
Furthermore, the revised guidelines now allow companies to employ foreign staff based on their size. Organizations can integrate up to 20% of their workforce as foreign nationals—this figure rises to 30% for specific sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and non-metropolitan manufacturing. This is a significant leap from the previous limit of merely eight foreign workers, regardless of company size.
Expanded Selection Numbers for Skilled Workers
Initially, the selection process for 5,000 skilled workers set for 2023 was completed by July, marking an increase in the previous intake from 625 to a total of 3,000 slots. Plans are already in motion for further expansions after the third quarter, which is indeed promising for both candidates and industries alike.
Application Period and Process for E-7-4 Visa Changes
For potential applicants, it is essential to stay informed about the application deadlines. While the window for the second quarter, which ended in June, has closed, there will be an additional recruitment phase. Foreign workers interested in applying for the E-7-4 visa can submit their applications to the local immigration office from June 27 (Tuesday) to July 5 (Wednesday).
Understanding E-7-4 Visa Points
It is important to note that the E-7-4 visa program remains competitive. During standard recruitment, around 600 slots are available, meaning only those with high scores will qualify. For example, in the first quarter, only applicants who achieved scores of 74 points or higher were successful from a pool of 625. However, the increase to approximately 3,000 slots may lower the minimum qualifying score, allowing more candidates with scores above the minimum threshold of 52 points to be considered.
The Ministry is committed to gathering feedback from various industries and local governments. This initiative aims to continuously improve the skilled workforce program, assisting foreign workers in their transition to stable employment while fostering a secure job market across different sectors.
In conclusion, this strategic enhancement of the E-7-4 program not only seeks to validate the expertise of foreign workers but also aims to fortify the job market, ensuring a reliable workforce in essential industries.
For additional details, please refer to the following resources:
- Foreign Worker E-7-4 Visa Application Period and Preparation Tips (Updated June 2023)
- Calculate Your E-7-4 Visa Skilled Worker Points Here – (Note: The point calculation method may differ slightly from the K-point E-7-4 visa.)
- Direct link to the article regarding the expansion of 30,000 E-7-4 visas in the second half of 2023.
By staying abreast of these developments, foreign workers can better navigate their paths toward rewarding employment opportunities in South Korea.