What Is Sponsoring Employer?

Most Korean work visas (E-series and some D-series) are employer-sponsored, meaning the visa is tied to a specific job with a specific company. The sponsoring employer is registered with Korean immigration authorities and takes on legal obligations including: ensuring the foreign employee works only in the approved role, reporting employment changes, and facilitating repatriation if the employee's visa is not renewed. For (English teaching), the school or academy (hagwon) is the sponsor. For (skilled worker), it's the hiring company. Changing employers typically requires a new visa application or status change — you generally cannot switch companies mid-visa without re-filing. The employer submits the Visa Issuance Number application to Korea's immigration office before you apply for the physical visa stamp.

Being 'sponsored' for a Korean work visa creates mutual obligations. Employers must not assign you to work outside the approved scope (e.g., a school cannot have an teacher working administrative roles as the primary job). If your employer becomes insolvent or cancels the sponsorship, your immigration status can be affected. Understanding your rights as a sponsored worker — and having an employment contract that reflects them — is important before you arrive.