Hello, this is TAEKANG Law Firm.
As new industries and content platforms emerge, the demand for foreign talent in Korea is steadily increasing. Today’s case involves the approval of an employment visa for a German translator.
In the case of translators and interpreters, the job can often be performed by native Koreans, so language ability alone is rarely enough to justify the hiring of a foreigner for a visa.
For this reason, those applying for an E-7 visa in the translation or interpretation field must provide strong evidence of their expertise and justification for employment.
💡 Employment Visa Process
👱🏻 Foreigner
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Korean Studies from a university in Germany, Master’s degree in a non-language major from a university in Korea
- Experience: No prior experience in translation
- Note: Residing in Korea on a D-10 (job-seeking) visa after completing graduate studies
🏢 Company
- Industry: Webtoon, web novel, and video content company
- Staff: 24 Korean nationals, 1 foreign national
🔖 Occupation Code: Translator/Interpreter (2814)
The foreign applicant held a degree related to the target occupation, but the bachelor’s was obtained overseas. Normally, applicants with a foreign degree must also have at least one year of work experience in the relevant field.
However, because the applicant earned a master’s degree from a Korean university—even in an unrelated field—the case was still eligible for employment visa consideration despite the lack of work experience.
The most critical factor in hiring a foreign translator or interpreter is Korean language proficiency.
Applicants must possess documents or certifications that prove this skill.
Even with relevant education or experience, the visa may be denied if the applicant cannot demonstrate sufficient Korean ability.
