Understanding the Employment Permit System (EPS) in South Korea and Its Benefits for Foreign Workers



Understanding the Employment Permit System (EPS) in South Korea and Its Benefits for Foreign Workers




By Majella P. Pagayon

The Employment Permit System (EPS) in South Korea is a government-regulated program designed to address labor shortages in specific industries by allowing foreign workers to legally work in the country. Introduced in 2004, the EPS ensures fair treatment and protection for foreign laborers while fulfilling the workforce demands of South Korean businesses. This article explores the eligibility requirements for EPS, the benefits it provides to foreign workers, additional support systems, and a comparison with the benefits received by local workers.

Eligibility for EPS

Foreign workers who wish to apply for jobs under the EPS must meet certain eligibility criteria set by the South Korean government. The application process includes the following steps:

Age Requirement: Applicants must typically be between 18 and 39 years old.

Health Examination: A medical checkup is required to ensure that applicants are fit for employment.

Language Proficiency: Candidates must pass the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) to demonstrate basic communication skills.

No Criminal Record: Applicants must not have any criminal history.

Work Experience and Skills: Some industries may require specific skills or work experience.

The EPS primarily provides opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, fishing, and services, offering foreign workers stable employment in industries experiencing labor shortages.

Benefits for Foreign Workers under EPS

The EPS ensures that foreign workers receive fair treatment and access to essential benefits, including:

Minimum Wage and Overtime Pay: EPS workers are entitled to South Korea’s minimum wage, and they receive additional compensation for overtime, night shifts, and holiday work.

2025 Minimum Wage in South Korea:

Daily: 80,240 won (3,398 pesos)

Hourly: 10,030 won (425 pesos)

Overtime: 15,045 won (637 pesos)

Monthly: 2,096,270 won (88,780 pesos)

Paid Leave and Holidays: Workers are eligible for annual leave and national holidays as per South Korean labor laws.

Social Insurance and Health Insurance: EPS workers are covered under the National Health Insurance program, ensuring access to medical care and other health-related services.

Work-Related Injury and Occupational Disease Compensation: The Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance provides financial assistance and medical support in case of workplace injuries or occupational diseases.

Retirement Benefits: Foreign workers who complete their employment contract can receive severance pay, helping them secure financial stability upon returning to their home country.

Additional Benefits: Workers may also receive meal allowances, transportation subsidies, and bonuses depending on their employer's policies.

Additional Support for Foreign Workers

To help foreign workers adjust to life in South Korea, the EPS program also offers:

Language and Cultural Training: Training programs help workers improve their Korean language skills and understand local customs and workplace culture.

Support for Family Reunification: Some workers may have options for bringing family members to South Korea under specific conditions.

Assistance with Housing and Travel: Employers often provide accommodation or housing allowances, and some programs assist workers with transportation expenses.

Comparison with Korean Workers' Benefits

While EPS workers receive many of the same benefits as South Korean workers, there are notable differences:

Employment Stability: Korean workers have more job security, while EPS workers have fixed-term contracts and must leave after their contract expires.

Career Advancement Opportunities: Local workers have more opportunities for promotions and career growth, whereas EPS workers have limited mobility within industries.

Residency and Permanent Settlement: Unlike Korean workers, foreign laborers under EPS have restricted options for long-term residency or obtaining permanent citizenship.


The EPS provides foreign workers with essential employment opportunities, ensuring fair wages, legal protection, and social security benefits. However, there are limitations compared to the benefits enjoyed by South Korean workers. Understanding these differences can help policymakers and employers improve conditions for foreign laborers, ensuring a more inclusive and supportive working environment in South Korea.

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