Indonesia
Korea Visa Guide
Indonesia is one of South Korea's largest labour partners under the Employment Permit System (EPS). Over 60,000 Indonesian workers reside in Korea, primarily on E-9 manufacturing visas, with a growing number pursuing skilled E-7-4 status or the D-8-4 startup visa. This guide covers all options for Indonesian citizens.
Visa required — C-3 needed for short-term visits
Indonesian citizens are not eligible for visa-free entry to Korea. A C-3 visa is required for tourism and short-term visits. For work under EPS, apply through the official BP2MI (formerly BNP2TKI) channel.
Visa-free entry?
No — C-3 visa required for tourism
K-ETA eligible?
No
EPS partner country?
Yes — major E-9 source
Working Holiday eligible?
Yes (age 18–30)
Indonesians in Korea
60,000+ residents
Korean Embassy in Indonesia
Jakarta + Consulate in Surabaya
Non-Professional Employment (EPS)
PopularThe most common visa for Indonesians in Korea. Apply through BNP2TKI/BP2MI (Indonesia's labour agency). Must pass the EPS-TOPIK Korean language test. Eligible sectors: manufacturing, construction, agriculture, fishing, and services.
Skilled Worker
PopularIndonesian professionals in IT, engineering, hospitality (chefs, F&B managers), and healthcare can apply for E-7. Requires a degree and employer sponsorship. Korean language ability strengthens the application.
E-7-4 Points-Based Skilled Worker
PopularLong-term E-9 workers with 4+ years in Korea, Korean skills, and qualifying points can upgrade to E-7-4 skilled worker status. Korea expanded the E-7-4 quota to 35,000 in 2025.
Student
Indonesian students at Korean universities have been growing rapidly. Many scholarship programs (GKS/KGSP) are available. Engineering, business, and medicine are popular fields.
Short-Term Visit
Indonesians need a C-3 visa for tourist visits. Apply at the Korean Embassy in Jakarta or Consulate in Surabaya. Multiple-entry visas available for frequent visitors.
Working Holiday
Indonesian citizens aged 18–30 are eligible for Korea's Working Holiday visa. Apply at the Korean Embassy in Jakarta. Limited quota — early application recommended.
How do Indonesian workers go to Korea through EPS?
Through BP2MI (Badan Pelindung Pekerja Migran Indonesia). The steps are: (1) Pass the EPS-TOPIK Korean language test — offered in Indonesia by the Human Resources Development Service of Korea (HRD Korea) in partnership with BP2MI; (2) Register on the EPS roster; (3) Wait for employer matching; (4) Receive the Standard Labour Contract; (5) Obtain E-9 visa at the Korean Embassy. Total process: 6 months to 2 years.
What is the E-7-4 visa and can Indonesian E-9 workers qualify?
E-7-4 is a points-based skilled worker visa for long-term E-9 holders. Requirements: at least 4 years of E-9 or H-2 work in Korea, employment at a company with 5+ Korean employees, minimum salary ₩26M/year, Korean language (TOPIK Level 2+), and 80+ points on the scoring system. Korea expanded the quota to 35,000 in 2025, significantly improving chances.
Can I visit Korea as a tourist from Indonesia?
Yes, but you need a C-3 tourist visa. Apply at the Korean Embassy in Jakarta or the Consulate in Surabaya. Required documents: passport, completed application form, recent passport photo, bank statement showing sufficient funds, return flight ticket, and accommodation proof. Processing time: 5–7 business days.
Are there scholarships for Indonesian students in Korea?
Yes. The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS, also called KGSP) is a fully-funded government scholarship covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. Indonesia is one of the top recipient countries. Apply through the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) or the Korean Embassy. University-specific scholarships are also available at many Korean universities.
How do Indonesian domestic workers get to Korea?
Under a bilateral agreement launched in September 2024, Indonesian domestic helpers can work in Korea through a regulated programme managed by BP2MI and the Korean Ministry of Employment and Labour. Requirements include TESDA-equivalent certification and a government-to-government placement process. This is separate from the standard EPS system.
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