Uzbekistan Eases Job Change Rules for E-9 Workers in Korea

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbek citizens working in South Korea under E-9 visas will no longer need prior approval from the Uzbekistan Migration Agency’s representative office to change employers.

The relevant provisions have been removed from the three-party agreement signed with citizens traveling to South Korea for temporary employment.

Previously, the agreement required workers to obtain approval from the Migration Agency’s representative office in South Korea before changing employers. A fine was also предусмотрен for violating this requirement.

According to the Migration Agency, these provisions were introduced to prevent workers from falling into illegal status, maintain regular contact with them and provide social, legal and financial assistance when necessary.

The decision to revise the agreement followed discussions with employers and non-governmental non-profit organizations in South Korea, as well as an analysis of appeals submitted by Uzbek citizens.

Under the revised rules, workers no longer need to apply separately to the Migration Agency for permission to change employers. After terminating an employment contract, they can enter into an employment relationship with a new employer in accordance with the established procedures and South Korean legislation.

At the same time, the amendments to the three-party agreement do not отменять requirements under South Korean law applicable to E-9 visa holders.

In particular, after terminating an employment contract, a worker must register with the relevant state authorities as a job seeker within one month. A new workplace must be found within 90 days. If the worker fails to secure employment within this period, they must leave South Korea.

The provision on penalties for illegal stay in the country remains in force.

If a worker fails to find employment within the prescribed period and does not leave South Korea, they may fall into illegal status.

Under South Korean law, such individuals may face a fine, deportation and a ban on re-entry.

In connection with the changes to the agreement, the Migration Agency recommends that Uzbek citizens strictly comply with the procedures and deadlines established by South Korean legislation when changing employers.