For Pakistani citizens seeking employment in South Korea, the Employment Permit System (EPS) is an official route to obtaining legal employment. Under this programme, eligible candidates can get the opportunity to work in South Korea by completing the prescribed examinations, selection stages and visa procedures.
In Pakistan, this programme is run in collaboration between the Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC) and South Korea’s Human Resources Development Service. Under this system, selected workers may get employment opportunities according to the relevant recruitment phase and available sectors.
Which sectors offer jobs?
Under the EPS, employment opportunities are generally available in manufacturing, construction, agriculture and certain other sectors. Workers selected for employment are usually given the opportunity to travel to South Korea under an E-9 work visa.
The purpose of this system is to link worker recruitment with a formal procedure. Under this system, employment contracts, wages and workplace safety regulations are important.
However, the available sectors, number of positions, registration dates and requirements may vary at each stage. Therefore, the latest official announcement by the OEC should be checked before applying.
What are the eligibility requirements?
Generally, applicants must be between 18 and 39 years of age. However, the age limit and other requirements should be checked according to the official announcement for the relevant registration.
Applicants must have a valid passport and must meet the prescribed medical requirements. A criminal record, illegal stay in South Korea or previous deportation may also affect eligibility.
Applicants may also face difficulties if there are any legal restrictions on their travel abroad from Pakistan. Before registration, it is necessary to ensure that the information provided on the national identity card, passport and other documents is accurate.
Korean language examination
Basic proficiency in the Korean language is important in the EPS selection process. Candidates have to take the EPS-TOPIK examination, which assesses their ability to understand the language through reading and listening.
Candidates who achieve the required standard in the examination may qualify for the next stage. After that, practical skills and abilities may also be assessed in accordance with the relevant recruitment rules.
The skills test may assess physical fitness, hand-eye coordination, colour recognition and relevant skills. Details of these stages may vary according to the official recruitment announcement for each round.
Candidates should learn Korean vocabulary related to work tools, safety instructions, factory routines and supervisors’ conversations. Official examination materials and practice questions can help with preparation.
What happens after the examination?
After completing the examination and prescribed stages, eligible candidates may have their names included in the job seeker roster. After that, an employer in South Korea may select a candidate.
Once selected, the employment contract and other necessary procedures move forward. Candidates must also complete medical examinations, visa procedures, pre-departure training and the relevant legal requirements.
