How I Got My E-7 Visa to Work in Korea – Real Story of a Filipino Welder (2025)

How I Got My E-7 Visa to Work in Korea (Filipino Welder’s Real Story, 2025)

I’m Mark, a 28-year-old welder from Cebu. In 2024, I successfully got my E-7 visa and moved to Korea to work in a shipbuilding company. Here’s my full story — how I applied, the documents I submitted, and what you should prepare.

1. Why I Chose the E-7 Visa

I worked for 5 years as a welder in the Philippines. I always dreamed of working abroad, and I heard that Korea offers good salaries and job security for skilled workers. I didn’t qualify for EPS (E-9), but an agency introduced me to the E-7 visa — and it changed my life. 💡 I learned that E-7 is for skilled workers with experience + job offer from a Korean company. I fit the profile. ---

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2. My Background

- Name: Mark A. - Age: 28 - Education: TESDA NC II Welding Certificate - Work Experience: 5 years welding in shipyard (Subic) - Korean Language: Basic only (no TOPIK) - Agency: Applied via licensed POEA-registered agency I didn’t finish college, but my skill and experience mattered more.

3. Documents I Prepared

Here’s what I submitted: Personal documents: - Passport - Resume - TESDA NC II Certificate - Certificate of Employment (with company seal) - Medical check-up results - ID photo From Korean employer: - Employment contract - Business license - Letter of invitation - Job description in Korean 💡 **All documents were translated to English or Korean** and notarized. ---

4. The Application Process

1. Job offer: My agency helped me get in touch with a Korean company in Busan looking for welders. 2. Interview: It was simple — mostly asking about my work. I answered in English. 3. Visa filing: The agency helped send documents to Korean immigration. ⏳ Processing took around 4 weeks. ---

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5. Visa Approval & Departure

One day, my agency called me: **"Visa approved!"** I cried. It was a dream come true. Two weeks later, I flew to Korea and started training.

6. My Life in Korea Now

I live in company dorm with 2 other Filipino workers. My salary is ₩2.8M/month, plus ₩300,000 housing support. Company provides: - Free uniform & tools - Medical insurance - Korean language training every Saturday It’s hard work, but very worth it. ---

7. My Advice to Filipino Workers

✅ Be honest in your documents ✅ Build real experience — at least 2 years ✅ Choose a trusted agency ✅ Learn a little Korean — it helps! ✅ Don’t give up if rejected once

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8. FAQ – What People Ask Me

Q: Do I need college to apply?
A: No. If you have TESDA certificate + experience, you can apply under skilled labor category. Q: Did you pay placement fee?
A: Yes, around PHP 80,000 — paid in two parts. Worth it! Q: Is Korea safe?
A: Yes! I feel safe and respected here. Q: Can I bring my family?
A: Maybe after 2 years with stable income. ---

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9. Related Guides

👉 E-7 Visa Requirements for Skilled Workers (2025 Guide)
👉 TOPIK for Beginners – Free Study Materials
👉 Korea Working Holiday vs Employment Visa

10. Final Words

If you’re a skilled Filipino worker dreaming of a better life, Korea’s E-7 visa is real and possible. It changed my life. Maybe it can change yours too. 💪