Start Your Year in Korea
Imagine spending a year exploring Korea — working in the cafés of Hongdae, studying Korean in Seoul, or travelling between Jeju and the coastline of Busan. The Korea Working Holiday Visa (H-1) makes this dream possible.
What will you discover? Here, we answer who can apply, how to submit your application, and how to make your stay a success. Get ready to master the essentials, avoid common pitfalls, and plan your working holiday with confidence.
All details come from official Korean government sources. However, since each country has its own rules and quotas, always double-check the latest information with your Korean embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before submitting your application.
Understanding the Working Holiday Visa in Korea
What is the Working Holiday Visa?
The Korea Working Holiday Visa (H-1) allows young people from partner countries to live in Korea for up to 12 months, combining travel, cultural exchange, and part-time work. For some nationalities, the length of stay may vary depending on bilateral agreements.
The main purpose of the visa is travel and cultural exchange, not long-term employment. You can take on side jobs to fund your stay, attend Korean classes, and immerse yourself in local life.
This visa is generally issued only once in a lifetime and is open to citizens of around 29 partner countries, including France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, the United States, and more.
👉 Important: Annual quotas, age limits, and required documents vary by country. Always check the details with your Korean embassy.
Who can apply?
Typical eligibility criteria include:
- Age between 18 and 30 (some countries allow up to 25 or 35)
- Citizenship of a participating country
- No criminal record
- Passing a basic medical check
- Proof of sufficient funds (around €3,000)
- Valid health insurance for the entire stay
- Return ticket or proof of funds to purchase one
Dependants (spouse, children) cannot accompany the visa holder.
Because requirements differ by country (for example, some require you to be currently enrolled in higher education or to have graduated within the last year), you must check the official Working Holiday Programme page of your Korean embassy or the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the most accurate guidelines.
What you can do with the visa
With the Korea Working Holiday Visa, you experience Korea far beyond the usual tourist itinerary.
Here’s what the visa allows — and what it does not.
What is allowed:
- Part-time work up to 1,300 hours per year (about 25 hours per week)
(some nationalities limit work to a total of six months) - Short-term studies, such as Korean language programs or individual university courses
- Free travel within Korea and the ability to leave and re-enter the country while the visa is valid
Common types of jobs:
- Unskilled, temporary, or assistant roles
- Hospitality & food service — cafés, restaurants, barista, waiter, kitchen assistant
- Tourism & accommodation — hotels, guesthouses, front desk, reception
- Retail & customer service — convenience stores, shops, cashier, sales
- Office/administrative work — translation support, administrative assistant, basic internships
- Childcare/au pair, event staff, festival support
- [Allowed under conditions] Small jobs in school environments or volunteer activities linked to cultural exchange
- Campus cafés, library assistants
- Volunteering with NGOs or local festivals
What is not allowed:
- Teaching English (or another language) in an official capacity
- Working in the medical, entertainment, or skilled professional sectors (law, engineering, finance, technical professions)
- Holding a full-time or professional position
Multiple entries are generally allowed: you can leave Korea and return during your visa period. The Working Holiday Visa is flexible, but always check job restrictions before accepting a position.
Main advantages and limitations
The Korea Working Holiday Visa isn’t just paperwork — it’s a chance to live, learn, and grow at the heart of one of Asia’s most dynamic cultures.
Imagine this:
You finish a shift in a café in Hongdae and head straight to see your favourite K-pop group live.
On the weekend, you explore the markets of Jeonju, try a temple stay in Gyeongju, or hike at sunrise on Bukhansan with friends from all over the world.
During the week, you attend Korean classes and progress to the point where you can order your favourite street food or chat with your colleagues in Korean. Every small victory — your first paycheck, your first conversation — makes the experience even more rewarding.
But the adventure also has limits.
The visa does not lead directly to permanent residency, and your working hours are capped. Some jobs require basic Korean, so learning the language is strongly recommended.
You must also have health insurance for the entire stay; and because annual quotas are limited, it’s best to apply early.
Who the Korea Working Holiday Visa is for
- Travellers who want to live in Korea, not just visit — spending a full year and integrating into local life.
- Students and recent graduates taking a gap year, looking for an international experience, to learn Korean, and to build a more global CV.
- Cultural enthusiasts, K-pop or K-drama fans who want to go beyond the screen — concerts, festivals, real immersion.
- People considering a longer stay in Korea — testing daily life before pursuing studies, work, or long-term plans.
If this sounds like you, start checking your eligibility and prepare your documents today.
Your year of discoveries — music, culture, food, and new friendships — might be closer than you think.
Step-by-Step Process for a 2026 Arrival
Ready to turn your Korean dream into reality?
The Korea Working Holiday Visa process can seem complex, but once broken into clear steps, it becomes manageable. Here you’ll find everything you need, from research to arrival, to plan your journey with peace of mind.
Step 1: Research and preparation
Start by checking your eligibility for the Korea Working Holiday Visa. Each participating country has its own annual quota: check the latest numbers on your Korean embassy or consulate website. Requirements can change from year to year (especially in 2025), so rely only on official sources.
Then gather detailed information: age limits, health checks, document formats. In some countries, quotas are filled in just a few days — timing is crucial. Planning 3 to 6 months ahead increases your chances.
Create a checklist with steps and deadlines. Write down application opening dates and set reminders. If you know someone who has already obtained this visa, ask for feedback: practical tips help you avoid missteps.
Step 2: Gather the required documents
Complete and accurate documents are the key to a smooth application.
Most embassies ask for:
- Application form (downloadable from the embassy website)
- Passport valid for at least 12 months with one blank page
- Copy of your passport and recent ID photos
- Bank statements showing at least 3,000,000 KRW (≈ €2,000–3,000)
- Proof of return ticket or funds to purchase one
- Criminal record/police certificate (depending on the country)
- Health insurance certificate covering the entire stay
- Medical certificate (in line with International Health Regulations 2005)
- Motivation letter and detailed travel itinerary
- Diploma (high school or higher)
- Any additional document requested by your embassy
Organise your documents and check their validity dates. Confirm if certified translations or legalisations are required. For a practical checklist and tips, see the official Working Holiday Visa application guide.
Step 3: Submit your application
Submit your application in person at the Korean embassy or consulate in your country.
Online applications are not accepted, and the visa must be applied for before entering Korea.
Bring all required documents and pay the fee (amount varies by country).
Some embassies require an interview — read their instructions carefully.
If your documents are not in French, English, or Korean, provide certified translations.
It’s better to clear up any doubts early with the embassy than to face delays later.
Step 4: Processing and decision
Processing times vary, but many embassies finalize applications within 3 to 5 weeks. Delays are possible during peak periods or if additional documents are requested.
If the embassy contacts you, reply promptly and clearly. Once approved, you’ll receive a visa sticker in your passport or an e-visa.
Keep in mind:
Your period of stay starts on the day you enter Korea, not on the date of issue. The visa also includes a validity period for entry — the window during which you must arrive in Korea.
Make sure you arrive before the entry deadline, or your visa may be invalidated.
Step 5: Prepare your arrival in Korea
Once your visa is approved, it’s time to prepare your Korean adventure.
- Book your flights and secure initial accommodation for the first weeks
- Take out health insurance that covers hospitalisation and emergencies
- Prepare digital and paper copies of your documents
- Research SIM card options and local banking services
- Review customs and immigration procedures to save time at the airport
With a bit of planning, you’ll start your year in Korea relaxed, confident, and ready to explore.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Many applicants face issues that could easily be avoided. Here’s how to stay ahead:
| Pitfall | How to avoid it |
|---|---|
| Expired or missing documents | Double-check every form and date before submission |
| Insufficient funds or unclear proof | Provide recent bank statements and clear proof of tickets |
| Incomplete medical or criminal checks | Start them early and allow for processing time |
| Applying late after quotas are filled | Apply as soon as applications open |
| Weak travel plan or motivation letter | State clear and concrete goals |
| Not meeting age or education requirements | Check the criteria before applying |
Stay organised, plan ahead, and don’t rush.
If in doubt, contact your Korean embassy or trusted advisors specialised in the Korea Working Holiday Visa. Good advice early on will save you time and stress.
Ready to Unlock Your Korea Adventure
Want to make the most of your Korea Working Holiday Visa?
This section is your roadmap: finding the right job, improving your Korean, and exploring every corner of the country.
Whether you dream of a fun part-time job, learning the language, or living like a local, this is where the adventure truly begins.
Working in Korea: opportunities and restrictions
With the Korea Working Holiday Visa, you can explore a range of accessible jobs that fit your lifestyle and schedule.
Popular options:
- Hospitality (waiter, barista, hotel staff)
- Retail (shops, boutiques)
- Translation support or language exchange
- Au pair or childcare assistant
- Non-professional paid internships
However, some jobs are strictly prohibited — English teaching, medical professions, engineering, and professional entertainment work.
Studying and learning Korean
Your Korea Working Holiday Visa also allows you to study.
Enroll in a private language academy (어학원) or a university language center (어학당) to improve your Korean while living in the country. Programs range from a few weeks to a full semester.
Depending on your nationality, limits on study hours may apply: check the rules specific to your country.
Learning Korean changes everything: friendships, cultural understanding, and professional opportunities. Many students join intensive courses at Yonsei, Sogang, or Hanyang and find that combining classes with part-time work gives even more meaning to their year.
Travelling and exploring Korea
The Korea Working Holiday Visa gives you the freedom to explore the country — and even to leave and re-enter while your visa remains valid.
Must-see experiences:
- Vibrant neighbourhoods of Seoul
- Beaches and seafood markets in Busan
- Volcanic landscapes of Jeju
- Temples and ancient sites in Gyeongju
The KTX, subway networks, and express buses make weekend getaways easy. Enjoy festivals, hidden cafés, or visit the DMZ for a deep dive into modern history.
Daily life: banking, SIM cards, and housing
Life in Korea is exciting and soon becomes smooth once you are settled.
Where to start:
- Open a Korean bank account
- Get a local SIM card for easy communication
- Choose housing that fits your budget — goshiwon, sharehouse, guesthouse, or studio
- Apply for your Alien Registration Card (ARC) within 90 days — essential for banking and most services
- Make sure you are covered by health insurance for your entire stay
Apps like KakaoTalk, Naver Maps, and Papago make daily life much easier.
For more details, see the Student Housing Guide in Korea to compare neighbourhoods and prices.
Rights and responsibilities
The Korea Working Holiday Visa offers freedom — and comes with responsibilities.
You must:
- Maintain valid health insurance
- Respect visa conditions (no prohibited jobs, no overstaying)
- Correctly register your address and pay any taxes if applicable
Breaking the rules — for example, teaching English illegally — can lead to fines, deportation, or future visa bans.
Stay informed and responsible to enjoy a safe and successful year.
Essential Tips for a Successful Working Holiday in Korea
Your year in Korea will be what you make of it.
Here’s how to make it unforgettable.
Balancing work and study
- Network with locals and expats — many jobs are found by word of mouth
- Use reliable platforms like KoMate, Saramin, or AlbaChunguk
- Combine part-time work with Korean classes (morning or evening)
- Volunteer or do an internship for deeper immersion
Balancing café shifts and intensive classes can be tiring but incredibly valuable — you’ll leave with strong memories and a stronger CV.
Korean culture and etiquette
Understanding cultural norms makes everyday life much easier.
- Greet with a slight bow and use both hands when giving or receiving cards or items
- Dress neatly and modestly for interviews and formal situations
- Listen carefully and speak respectfully — indirect communication is common
From the dining table to introductions, etiquette is everywhere. Observing and asking questions will help you feel at home and succeed during your Korea Working Holiday Visa experience.
Managing your budget wisely
A basic financial plan is essential. The cost of living varies: Seoul is more expensive than regional cities, but a smart budget goes a long way.
- Plan for rent, food, transport, and unexpected expenses
- Save money with sharehouses or goshiwons
- Use Korean banking apps and cards to track your spending
Arrive with at least 3,000,000 KRW for initial expenses. Keep an eye on your spending and look out for student/expat discounts.
Staying safe and healthy
Your health comes first during your Korea Working Holiday Visa stay. Comprehensive insurance is mandatory and protects you in the event of illness or accident. In 2025, some requirements are changing: check that your coverage matches the latest rules. For more information, read the 2025 Health Insurance Guide for Foreigners.
- Take out or activate your insurance before or as soon as you arrive
- Know the emergency numbers (119 for fire/medical, 112 for police)
Join online expat groups for peer support. By staying healthy, you’ll get the most out of your adventure.
Making the most of your year
Set clear goals: to learn, to meet people, to grow.
- Travel to new cities during holidays
- Join local events and festivals
- Keep a journal, vlog, or blog to document your experience
Every moment — from your first paycheck to your first hanbok photo — will become part of an unforgettable story.
FAQ – Korea Working Holiday Visa
Curious about the Korea Working Holiday Visa and daily life with it?
You’re not alone. Many people wonder about eligibility, work, life in Korea, and what happens after the programme.
Here are answers to the most common questions, so you can plan clearly.
Questions about application and eligibility
Wondering if you can apply for the Korea Working Holiday Visa?
Here are the basics:
- Age and nationality? 18–30 years old and a citizen of a participating country.
- Apply from Korea? No, you must apply from your home country before arrival.
- Only once? Yes, usually limited to first-time applicants.
- Quotas? Yes, each country has an annual quota — apply early.
- Family allowed? No dependants. For the 2025 rules, see New 2025 Visa Rules for country-specific updates.
Questions about work and study
The Korea Working Holiday Visa offers flexibility, with limits:
- What kind of jobs? Hospitality, retail, translation support, internships, etc. English teaching, skilled professions, and professional entertainment are not allowed.
- How many hours? Limit of 1,300 hours per year (≈ 25 hours/week).
- Study? Yes, Korean classes or certain university courses.
- Korean level? Basic Korean helps for many jobs, but some positions don’t require it.
- Teach English? No, this is not allowed with this visa.
Questions about life in Korea
Everyday life on a Korea Working Holiday Visa is enjoyable when you have the right information:
- Housing? Guesthouses, goshiwons, sharehouses, studios.
- Registration? Yes, you must apply for an ARC within 90 days.
- SIM & banking? SIM cards at the airport/online; banks are accessible to foreigners with the right documents.
- Cost of living? Seoul is more expensive; budgeting is key. See our Housing Guide as well.
Extension and after the programme
What happens after a year on the Korea Working Holiday Visa?
- Extend? In most cases, no — not beyond the original duration.
- Stay longer? Consider a change of status (study D-2/D-4 or work in an E-series visa) depending on your plans.
Conversion rules vary: some nationalities can apply from within Korea, others must return home and reapply from their country of origin. - Overstaying? Possible fines, deportation, and future entry bans.
- After expiry? You must leave Korea, but you can return later as a tourist or on another suitable visa.
Whatever your questions, planning ahead and using official resources will help you get the most out of your experience.
Take the Next Step
You now know how to live, work, and explore Korea with the Korea Working Holiday Visa — from submitting your application to settling in.
It’s a big adventure, but you don’t have to do it alone.
At Allo Korea, our experts support you every step of the way — from preparing your application to your first days on the ground.
Need clarification or personalised support? We’re here for you.
👉 Got questions? Contact us anytime
