If you’re between the ages of 18 and 30 and dreaming of spending a year living, working, and traveling in South Korea, the Working Holiday Visa (H-1) could be your ticket. Whether you’re interested in teaching English part-time, exploring Korean culture, or simply living in a new country, this visa offers the freedom to do all of that—without needing a full-time job sponsorship or a long-term student visa.
But like any international move, the process of applying for a Working Holiday Visa in Korea takes some planning, paperwork, and patience. This 2025 guide is designed specifically for English-speaking applicants and covers everything you need to know—from eligibility and required documents to tips on arrival and job hunting once you land in Korea.
Let’s get started.
What Is the Korean Working Holiday Visa (H-1)?
The H-1 visa is part of Korea’s bilateral Working Holiday Program, designed to encourage cultural exchange between South Korea and partner countries. It allows young adults to stay in Korea for up to 12 months while working part-time and exploring the country.
As of 2025, South Korea has working holiday agreements with more than 25 countries, including:
United States
United Kingdom
Canada
Australia
New Zealand
Ireland
Germany
France
Japan
Taiwan
and more
Each country has its own annual quota and specific rules, so it’s important to check with your local Korean embassy.
Who Is Eligible in 2025?
While eligibility can vary slightly depending on your home country, these are the general requirements for most English-speaking nations:
Age: 18 to 30 years old (some countries allow up to 35)
Citizenship: Must hold a passport from a partner country
No prior H-1 visa: You can only receive this visa once
No dependents: You must apply alone
Sufficient funds: Typically ₩3,000,000 to ₩5,000,000 (~USD $2,300–$3,800) in savings
Return ticket: Or proof of funds to purchase one
Clean criminal record
Health insurance for duration of stay
Many embassies also require a detailed itinerary or activity plan, showing what you intend to do during your stay.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the H-1 Visa
The process can differ slightly depending on the country, but this is the general application flow.
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
You’ll need the following:
Completed Visa Application Form
Valid passport and a photocopy
One passport-sized photo
Bank statement showing sufficient funds
Detailed itinerary or activity plan (1–2 pages)
Proof of return ticket or equivalent funds
Criminal background check (may need to be apostilled)
Travel insurance certificate (valid for 12 months)
Any required application fee (typically $40–$70, varies by country)
Tip: Some embassies ask for additional items like a resume or motivation letter. Always check your country’s Korean embassy website before applying.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Submit your documents in person or by mail, depending on embassy rules.
For example:
In the US, applications must be submitted to the Korean Consulate General that serves your state
In the UK, apply via the Korean Embassy in London
In Australia, you may use a visa application center like VFS Global
Processing times range from 1 to 4 weeks, so apply early—especially if your departure date is fixed.
Step 3: Receive Your Visa
If approved, you’ll receive a sticker visa in your passport, or an electronic visa confirmation (for countries using the K-ETA system). Double-check that your visa indicates H-1 and the correct date of entry.
Note: You must enter Korea within 90 days of visa issuance.
What You Can and Can’t Do on a Working Holiday Visa
The H-1 visa offers flexible work rights, but there are some restrictions.
What You Can Do:
Work part-time jobs (cafes, restaurants, shops)
Teach private English lessons (not in formal schools unless certified)
Work in hospitality, tourism, or seasonal agriculture
Study language courses or cultural classes
Travel throughout Korea freely
Volunteer with NGOs or language exchanges
What You Can’t Do:
Work full-time teaching jobs in schools or academies (E-2 visa required)
Work in entertainment, adult services, or jobs that may be deemed unsafe
Bring dependents or work on behalf of someone else’s visa
Extend your visa beyond 1 year (no renewals)
What to Expect After Arriving in Korea
Alien Registration Card (ARC)
Within 90 days of arrival, you must apply for an ARC (resident ID card) at your local immigration office.
Required:
Your passport
A passport photo
ARC application form
Visa confirmation
Proof of address (housing contract, utility bill, or letter from host)
Once you have your ARC, you can open a bank account, get a phone plan, and legally register for work.
Housing
Most working holiday visa holders choose:
Goshiwons – small private rooms, affordable and furnished
Sharehouses – co-living spaces with monthly rent
Short-term apartments via apps like Dabang, Zigbang, or Airbnb
Budget around ₩400,000–₩700,000/month depending on the city and housing type.
Getting a Phone Plan
You’ll need your ARC for a postpaid plan. Prepaid SIM cards are available at the airport and convenience stores, but long-term use is more affordable with local providers like SK Telecom, KT, or LG U+.
Where to Find Jobs in Korea as a Working Holiday Visa Holder
While you can’t work in schools, there are still many job options.
1. Part-Time Work (알바 or “Alba”)
Cafes, restaurants, convenience stores
Job sites: Alba.co.kr, Albamon, Craigslist Korea
Wage: ₩9,860/hour (2025 minimum wage)
2. English Tutoring
Private one-on-one tutoring (usually paid in cash)
Must avoid formal institutions unless certified
Post ads in expat Facebook groups or HelloTalk
3. Internships / Volunteering
Some language exchange programs or startups offer unpaid roles
These are great for building experience or practicing Korean
Tip: Learn basic Korean phrases and workplace etiquette. Even a little effort goes a long way with employers.
Useful Resources for H-1 Visa Holders in Korea
Hi Korea (hikorea.go.kr): Immigration services, ARC info
WorknHoliday.kr: Government portal for working holiday participants
Facebook groups: “Working Holiday Korea”, “Every Expat in Korea”, “Job Korea (Seoul) for foreigners”
Job platforms: Craigslist Seoul, Worknet, Albamon
Make sure to also download Naver Map, KakaoTalk, and Papago (translation app) to make daily life smoother.
Is the Korean Working Holiday Visa Worth It?
Absolutely—if you’re seeking freedom, cultural immersion, and real-life experience in Korea without the rigid commitment of a job contract or school curriculum. It’s not always the easiest route—job hunting may take time, and communication barriers can be real—but the rewards are just as big.
You’ll come away not only with unforgettable memories and friendships but also with a deeper understanding of Korea beyond K-pop and drama culture. For many, it’s the first step toward building a life in Asia or simply a chance to pause, explore, and grow.
If you’re ready to live abroad, South Korea in 2025 offers both challenge and opportunity—and the H-1 visa opens that door.