Myanmar
Korea Visa Guide
Myanmar is one of South Korea's core EPS partner countries, with a large and established community of Myanmar workers in Korean manufacturing, agriculture, and seafood processing. Myanmar nationals have been a significant part of Korea's E-9 workforce since the early EPS years. This guide covers visa pathways for Myanmar citizens.
Visa required — C-3 needed for short-term visits
Myanmar passport holders are not eligible for visa-free entry to Korea. A C-3 tourist visa must be applied for at the Korean Embassy in Yangon or the Consulate General in Mandalay.
Visa-free entry?
No — C-3 visa required for tourism
K-ETA eligible?
No
EPS partner country?
Yes
Myanmar in Korea
~30,000 residents
Korean Embassy in Myanmar
Yangon + Consulate General in Mandalay
Non-Professional Employment (EPS)
PopularThe primary path for Myanmar workers. Apply through Myanmar's Ministry of Labour (MoL) in partnership with HRD Korea. Must pass EPS-TOPIK. Eligible sectors: manufacturing, agriculture, fisheries, construction, services.
Points-Based Skilled Worker (E-7-4)
PopularMyanmar E-9 workers with 4+ years in Korea, Korean language skills, and 80+ K-Points can upgrade to E-7-4 skilled status. Korea expanded the 2025 quota to 35,000.
Student
Myanmar students studying in Korea, often in engineering, information technology, and Korean language programs. GKS scholarships available.
Short-Term Visit
Myanmar passport holders require a C-3 visa for tourist visits. Apply at the Korean Embassy in Yangon. Processing: 5–7 business days.
How do Myanmar EPS workers apply to Korea?
Through Myanmar's Ministry of Labour (Immigration and Manpower Department) in cooperation with HRD Korea. Steps: (1) Pass the EPS-TOPIK Korean test (offered in Yangon); (2) Register on the Myanmar EPS roster; (3) Wait for employer matching (can take 1–2 years depending on quota); (4) Receive Standard Labour Contract; (5) Apply for E-9 visa at Korean Embassy in Yangon.
What is the political situation in Myanmar and does it affect Korean visas?
Since the 2021 military takeover, Myanmar's political situation has been uncertain. However, Korean immigration continues to process E-9 applications through the official EPS channel. Myanmar EPS workers already in Korea can renew their status normally. Consult an 행정사 if you have concerns about individual circumstances.
Can Myanmar workers switch to a better visa after E-9?
Yes, through the E-7-4 pathway. After 4+ years on E-9 in Korea, if you have Korean language skills (TOPIK Level 2+) and 80+ K-Points, you can apply for E-7-4 skilled worker status. E-7-4 eventually leads to F-2-7 long-term residency and F-5 permanent residency.
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