Understanding the South Korean Shipping Visa (E-10): How to Apply
As an international ship crew member coming to South Korea for work, you will need to apply for a South Korean Shipping Visa, also known as an E-10 visa. This visa allows foreign maritime workers to enter South Korea for the purpose of engaging in shipping-related work.
Below is a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a South Korean Shipping Visa.
Eligibility
To be eligible for a South Korean Shipping Visa, you must be:
– A non-Korean national
– A member of a foreign ship or seafarer crew
– Engaged in shipping-related work, such as transportation of passengers or cargo, fishing, oceanographic research, or offshore construction activities
– Sponsored by a South Korean shipping company or agency
Application Procedure
1. Collect Required Documents
Before applying for a South Korean Shipping Visa, you must gather all the necessary documents. These include:
– Completed application form
– Passport with a validity of at least six months
– Photograph (3.5cm x 4.5cm) taken within the last six months
– Employment contract or crew list provided by the shipping company or agency
– Certificate of employment or certificate of competency
– Maritime health certificate or medical examination certificate
– Criminal background check certificate issued by your home country or the country where you have resided for the past three years
– Evidence of financial capabilities to cover your living expenses in South Korea
Note: Documents must be in English or Korean. If they are in a foreign language, they must be translated into either English or Korean and attested by a notary public.
2. Submit Application
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can submit your application for a South Korean Shipping Visa through the South Korean embassy or consulate in your home country. You can also apply through a licensed visa agency.
3. Pay Fees
There is a visa application fee of KRW 60,000 (approximately USD 55) that must be paid upon submission of your application. Some visa agencies may also charge a service fee.
4. Wait for Processing
Processing times for South Korean Shipping Visas can vary, but typically take anywhere from two to six weeks. During this time, your application will undergo a background check and review process.
If approved, you will receive a visa stamp in your passport that allows you to enter South Korea and work as a maritime crew member for the duration of your approved stay.
FAQs
1. Is there a limit to the number of South Korean Shipping Visas issued?
No, there is no limit to the number of South Korean Shipping Visas issued. However, the issuance of visas is subject to the discretion of the South Korean embassy or consulate, and may be impacted by factors such as visa quotas and current political or economic conditions.
2. Can I apply for a South Korean Shipping Visa while in South Korea?
No, you cannot apply for a South Korean Shipping Visa while in South Korea. You must apply for the visa in your home country or country of residence.
3. Do I need to pass a language proficiency test to apply for a South Korean Shipping Visa?
No, there is no language proficiency test required for a South Korean Shipping Visa. However, it is recommended that you have a basic understanding of the Korean language to facilitate communication with Korean officials and crew members.
4. Can I extend my South Korean Shipping Visa?
Yes, you can apply for an extension of your South Korean Shipping Visa through the immigration office in South Korea. However, extensions are subject to the discretion of the immigration officer and must be requested prior to the expiration of your current visa.
5. Can I bring my family with me on a South Korean Shipping Visa?
Generally, no. A South Korean Shipping Visa only allows for the visa holder to enter South Korea for the purpose of engaging in shipping-related work. However, some exceptions may be made for crew members who have been working in South Korea for an extended period of time and have obtained special permission for family members to join them.
Conclusion:
Obtaining a South Korean Shipping Visa can be a complex process, but following the application procedure outlined above can help ensure that your application is successful. Remember to gather all required documents, submit your application through the appropriate channels, pay the necessary fees, and wait for processing. With a South Korean Shipping Visa, you can legally work as a maritime crew member in South Korea and enjoy all that this fascinating country has to offer.