Your EPS Journey to Korea 🇰🇷

Are there agents or brokers who can help me get a factory job in Korea?

No. The Employment Permit System (EPS) is a government-to-government program. In the Philippines, only the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) handles EPS applications. Applicants should avoid individuals or agencies claiming they can guarantee jobs through EPS.

Do I need to pass the EPS-TOPIK exam to work in Korea?

Yes. If you want to work in Korea as an EPS factory worker under the E-9 visa, you must pass the EPS-TOPIK Korean language exam.

However, there are other ways to work in Korea without taking EPS-TOPIK, such as:

• Seasonal Worker Programs handled by Local Government Units (LGUs)
• Skilled worker visas (such as E-7)
• Employment through other visa categories such as E-1, D-7, D-8, F-2, or F-5, depending on qualifications
• Direct hiring or internal company transfer for highly qualified professionals

If I pass the EPS-TOPIK exam, will I automatically get a job in Korea?

No. Passing the EPS-TOPIK exam is only one step. Applicants must still pass medical exams, complete documentation, be placed in the EPS roster, and be selected by a Korean employer.

How much do EPS factory workers earn in Korea?

EPS workers are generally paid according to Korea's minimum wage, which changes every year.

Actual earnings depend on:

• Working hours
• Overtime pay
• Company policies

How long can I work in Korea as an EPS worker?

EPS workers can initially work in Korea for up to 3 years.

This period may be extended to a maximum of 4 years and 10 months depending on the employment contract and employer agreement.

In some cases, workers may also transition from an E-9 visa to an E-7 skilled worker visa if they meet certain qualifications.

Is it true that women have a very low chance of being selected?

No. While a larger number of men are typically selected for factory work, many women are also selected each year depending on the industry and employer requirements.

Can I bring my family members to Korea while working under EPS?

For work purposes, family members cannot accompany EPS workers under the E-9 visa.

Family members who want to visit Korea must apply for a tourist visa separately.

Can I still work in Korea as an EPS worker if I am colorblind?

Applicants must pass the Ishihara Color Vision Test during the medical examination. Applicants who fail this test may not qualify for certain types of factory work.

I am turning 38 years old. Am I still qualified to apply?

Applicants must be within the qualified age range at the time they take the EPS-TOPIK exam. If you meet the age requirement when you take the exam, you may still apply.

Do I need to attend a Korean language center to take the EPS-TOPIK exam?

No. Attending a language center is not required. You may prepare through:

• Self-study
• Online learning
• Review materials
• Language schools or training centers (optional)

The important requirement is passing the EPS-TOPIK exam.