E-1 Professor
Foreign professors and researchers teaching or doing research at Korean universities and colleges.
The E-1 Professor is a South Korean work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry)) and processing time (~2-4 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the E-1 Professor is for
Foreign professors and researchers teaching or doing research at Korean universities and colleges.
Counts toward F-2 and F-5; high-level professors may qualify under talent criteria.
E-1 Professor - eligibility criteria
- Appointment at a recognised university or college
- Qualifications meeting the post (typically master's or doctorate)
- Invitation/contract from the institution
- Relevant teaching or research field
E-1 Professor cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the E-1 Professor (South Korea) is ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry), with an indicative processing time of ~2-4 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at HiKorea (Korea Immigration).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside Korea (consulate) after issuance confirmation, or change of status inside Korea |
| Length of stay | Up to 5 years, renewable |
| Work rights | Teaching/research at the sponsoring higher-education institution |
| Study rights | Permitted alongside the academic role |
| Government fee | ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry) |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks |
| Route to PR | Counts toward F-2 and F-5; high-level professors may qualify under talent criteria. |
Pathway & next steps
Counts toward F-2 and F-5; high-level professors may qualify under talent criteria.
Many applicants also compare E-2 · E-2 Foreign Language Instructor, E-3 · E-3 Research, F-5 · F-5 Permanent Residence. Run a free VisaChief check to see which South Korean route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common E-1 Professor pitfalls we fix
E-1 Professor - frequently asked questions
How much does the E-1 Professor cost?
The E-1 Professor government fee is ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at HiKorea (Korea Immigration) before applying.
How long does the E-1 Professor take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-4 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the E-1 Professor lead to permanent residence?
Counts toward F-2 and F-5; high-level professors may qualify under talent criteria.
Can I work on the E-1 Professor?
Work rights: Teaching/research at the sponsoring higher-education institution.
Who can apply for the E-1 Professor?
Foreign professors and researchers teaching or doing research at Korean universities and colleges.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official South Korea government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- HiKorea (Korea Immigration) - official South Korea immigration authority