How to Apply for Korea's Working Holiday Visa (H-1)

Visit the Korean consulate website for your country to check the current year's quota status. Some countries (like Canada) have a specific annual application window — applications open at a set date and the quota fills within hours. Sign up for email notifications from your Korean consulate to know when applications open.

Standard documents: valid passport with 12+ months remaining, passport photo, completed visa application form, bank statement showing sufficient funds (typically 3 months of living expenses, approximately ₩3,000,000 or equivalent), return or onward travel ticket (or equivalent funds), travel and health insurance covering the duration of your stay. Some consulates additionally require a criminal background check or health certificate — verify with your specific consulate.

Submit your application in person or online (some consulates accept electronic applications). Processing is typically 1–3 weeks. Once approved, you will receive a single-entry visa valid for 3 months — you must enter Korea within that window.

Upon arrival you will receive your authorized stay duration. Register at the nearest immigration office within 90 days of arrival to get your Alien Registration Card (ARC). The ARC lets you open a Korean bank account, get a SIM card with a contract, and sign a lease.

The allows incidental work to fund your stay — there is no strict sector restriction for most agreements. Common H-1 jobs: English teaching (many private academies and language schools accept H-1 holders), hospitality, food service, and farming (farm work programs are often well-organized for working holiday visitors).