KOREA VISA & IMMIGRATION / C-4
C-4 Short-Term Employment Visa: Paid Activities up to 90 Days
Quick answer
For foreigners carrying out temporary paid activities in Korea for 90 days or less, such as lectures, performances, modelling or technical guidance. Review whether the activity falls within the permitted C-4 scope and whether the inviting organisation and payment structure are appropriate.
Content reference date: 2026.10.09 · Eligibility · Documents · Pitfalls
C-4
KOREA
KOREA
Who may qualify?
- Temporary activity of 90 days or less for which you are paid in Korea
- Activity falls within permitted short-term work such as lectures, performances, advertising/fashion modelling or technical guidance
- Seasonal-worker and similar programmes have gone through the designated local-government allocation process
Documents to prepare
- Invitation letter, service or employment contract and activity schedule
- Business registration and other documents of the inviting organisation
- Evidence of expertise for the activity, such as career records or certificates
This is a starting checklist, not a universal mandatory list.
Common application issues
- Overlooking that extensions and changes to other work statuses are generally restricted
- Entering visa-free or on a C-3 short-term visit and then doing paid work (unauthorised activity)
How the process works
Prepare evidence and supporting documents
Apply through the proper authority
Handle requests and follow-up stay procedures
Frequently asked questions
What documents are usually prepared for a C-4 visa?
Typical examples include Invitation letter, service or employment contract and activity schedule; Business registration and other documents of the inviting organisation; requirements vary.
What are common C-4 visa application problems?
Look out for Overlooking that extensions and changes to other work statuses are generally restricted; Entering visa-free or on a C-3 short-term visit and then doing paid work (unauthorised activity).
Does submitting these documents guarantee approval?
No. Each application is evaluated against the relevant rules and individual circumstances by the competent authority.
Can I change to this status inside Korea?
That depends on your present stay status and the visa subtype; some applications require an overseas consular route.
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