Which countries have working holiday agreements with Korea?

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Korea has working holiday agreements with 29 countries and regions: Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, United Kingdom, and United States. Each country has different quotas, age limits, and conditions.

What are the age limits for each country?

Age limits vary by bilateral agreement. Most countries require applicants to be 18-30. Canada, UK, and Luxembourg allow up to age 35. Argentina, Brazil, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Latvia, Portugal, and Taiwan allow up to age 34. Japan has a lower limit of 18-25. Always verify with your specific embassy, as age limit policies can change.

What jobs am I allowed to do on the H-1 visa?

Published guidelines indicate H-1 holders may work in hospitality (cafes, restaurants, hotels), retail, food service, translation, internships, volunteering, and childcare. Work that is generally not permitted includes English teaching, skilled professional fields (law, medicine, engineering, finance), and professional entertainment. The maximum is 25 hours per week for most nationalities.

How does the quota system work?

Each country has a set annual quota of H-1 visas, allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. According to published data, examples include: UK (5,000), Canada (12,000), France (2,000), USA (2,000), Netherlands (200), Australia and Germany (unlimited). Once the quota for your nationality is filled, no more visas are issued until the next year. Some quotas fill within weeks of opening.

Can I extend my H-1 visa?

According to published guidelines, the H-1 visa is generally for up to 12 months and is not extendable for most nationalities. Some countries have agreements allowing longer stays (e.g., Canadian participants may stay up to 24 months). Check the specific terms of the bilateral agreement between Korea and your country.

Can I apply for the H-1 visa more than once?

The H-1 visa is generally a one-time opportunity. According to published guidelines, exceptions exist for US, Ireland, and Sweden nationals, who may reapply. Canadian participants may participate twice for up to 24 months each. All other nationalities are limited to a single H-1 visa.

How much money do I need in my bank account?

Published requirements indicate a minimum of ₩3,000,000 (~$2,200 USD) in your bank account, demonstrated through statements from the last 3 months. You also need a return flight ticket or additional funds for the return journey. It is advisable to bring more than the minimum, as initial expenses (housing deposit, first month's rent, transportation) can be significant.

What health insurance do I need?

Published requirements specify health insurance with minimum coverage of ₩40,000,000 (~$30,000 USD) valid for the entire duration of stay. Travel insurance plans that include medical coverage in Korea are commonly used. Popular options include SafetyWing, World Nomads, and Allianz travel insurance.

How do I register for an Alien Registration Card (ARC)?

Within 90 days of arrival, visit your local immigration office (출입국·외국인청) to apply for an ARC. You will need your passport, a completed application form, a passport photo, and proof of accommodation. Book your appointment as early as possible through the HiKorea portal (hikorea.go.kr), as wait times can be 1 month or more. You will receive a temporary receipt at your appointment that works as a temporary ID.

Can I transition from H-1 to another visa type?

According to published immigration guidelines, H-1 holders may transition to other visa types before their H-1 expires. Common transitions include D-4 (Language Study) by enrolling in a Korean language program, D-10 (Job Seeking) if holding a bachelor's degree, and E-7 (Professional Employment) if a Korean employer is willing to sponsor. Each transition has its own requirements and must be applied for before the H-1 expires.

Are there special requirements for US applicants?

According to published requirements, US nationals applying for the H-1 visa must be currently enrolled in post-secondary education or have graduated within the past 12 months. The US quota is 2,000 per year. US applicants are among the few nationalities who may reapply for the H-1 visa.

Can I bring my spouse or children on the H-1 visa?

No. According to published requirements, the H-1 visa does not allow dependents. Spouses and children cannot accompany H-1 holders on dependent visas. If your family members wish to visit or stay in Korea, they would need to apply for their own appropriate visa type independently.

Korea Working Holiday Visa (H-1) — Complete 2026 Guide

Work and travel in Korea for young adults

Important Notes

One-time visa in most cases — once used, you cannot apply again (exceptions: US, Ireland, Sweden, and Canada)
Annual quotas are first-come-first-served — some countries fill within weeks of opening
Must apply from your home country — cannot convert a tourist visa to H-1 within Korea
25-hour weekly work limit is strictly enforced for most nationalities — violations can result in deportation and future entry bans
No dependents allowed — spouse and children cannot accompany on H-1

Duration

1-2 years (varies by nationality)

Fees

~$50-100 USD (varies by nationality and consulate)

Processing Time

1-3 weeks

Max Stay

2 years maximum

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized immigration guidance, consult a licensed immigration consultant (행정사) or attorney (변호사). Final decisions on visa issuance rest solely with the Korean Ministry of Justice and immigration authorities.

Based on published requirements. Not legal advice.

Korea Working Holiday Visa (H-1) — Complete 2026 Guide

Work and travel in Korea for young adults

Important Notes

One-time visa in most cases — once used, you cannot apply again (exceptions: US, Ireland, Sweden, and Canada)
Annual quotas are first-come-first-served — some countries fill within weeks of opening
Must apply from your home country — cannot convert a tourist visa to H-1 within Korea
25-hour weekly work limit is strictly enforced for most nationalities — violations can result in deportation and future entry bans
No dependents allowed — spouse and children cannot accompany on H-1

Duration

1-2 years (varies by nationality)

Fees

~$50-100 USD (varies by nationality and consulate)

Processing Time

1-3 weeks

Max Stay

2 years maximum

Based on published requirements. Not legal advice.

Korea Working Holiday Visa (H-1) — Complete 2026 Guide

Important Notes

Key Requirements

Timeline & Fees

Documents

Application Steps

FAQ

Tips & Community

Sources & Related

Korea Working Holiday Visa (H-1) — Complete 2026 Guide

Important Notes

Key Requirements

Timeline & Fees

Documents

Application Steps

FAQ

Tips & Community

Sources & Related