Essential Stages of the Work Document Legalization Process for South Korea: What You Must Know
Working in South Korea offers vast opportunities in manufacturing, IT, and entertainment for skilled Indonesians. Documents such as diplomas, employment reference letters, and Police Certificates (SKCK) must be legalized to be accepted by Korean immigration authorities for E-7 or E-9 visas. This process streamlines work permit applications and prevents rejections upon arrival.
Since Indonesia joined the Hague Apostille Convention, the legalization steps have become much more efficient. For countries like South Korea, which is also a member, the process is handled primarily through the Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Kemenkumham). The total timeframe is approximately 1–3 weeks, depending on document completeness. Following this sequence increases your chances of a hassle-free work visa approval. Here are the essential stages you need to know.
Step-by-Step Document Legalization Roadmap
1. Gather Original Documents
The first step is to collect your original bachelor’s degree or diploma, academic transcripts, and employment reference letters (minimum of 1 year of experience).
Condition: Ensure documents are free from stains or alterations to pass initial verification. Prepare high-quality color photocopies for subsequent stages. These documents form the core foundation of the E-7 visa for skilled workers.
2. Translation by a Sworn Translator
Submit your original documents to a Sworn Translator registered with the Supreme Court to be translated into English.
Standard: The translation must capture every detail, including signatures and stamps, without adding interpretations. South Korean immigration accepts these standard English versions for rapid verification.
3. Legalization by the Issuing Institution
Take your diploma to the issuing university or the Ministry of Education (Kemdikbudristek) for an official authenticity stamp. For E-9 manufacturing workers, even high school diplomas require this step.
Importance: The issuing institution’s stamp is mandatory before moving to the Apostille stage, as it confirms the document’s source.
4. Notarization of Private Documents
Take employment reference letters or contracts to a Notary Public to receive an official seal and legal stamp (Materai).
Purpose: Notarization is a prerequisite for non-government documents before they can receive an Apostille. In Korea, this proves that your work experience is authentic for the E-7 visa.
5. Apostille at the Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Kemenkumham)
Apply online via the AHU Apostille portal (apostille.ahu.go.id) by uploading your legalized scans. The fee is IDR 50,000 per certificate.
Efficiency: Once approved (1–3 days), visit an AHU office in Jakarta or your regional Kemenkumham office to have the Apostille sticker attached to the original document. Since 2024, this single sticker replaces the old, long process involving the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy.
6. Prepare Korean Visa Forms and Documents
Download the appropriate visa form (e.g., C-3-9 or D-7/E-7) from the South Korean Embassy’s website. Fill it out completely with your Korean sponsor’s details.
Requirement: Include a passport valid for at least 6 months and a 3.5×4.5 cm white-background photo. Prepare an invitation letter from your Korean employer to strengthen the application.
7. Visa Submission at the KVAC (Korea Visa Application Center)
Submit your Apostilled documents and forms to the KVAC in Jakarta. The fee is approximately IDR 500,000.
Timeline: The processing time is usually 5–10 working days. For E-9 applicants via the EPS TOPIK program, remember to attach your Korean language test results.
8. In-Country Legalization in South Korea (Upon Arrival)
Once you arrive in Korea, you may need to have your documents translated into Korean by a local authorized translator.
Verification: If requested by your employer, take them to the Ministry of Justice or the Korean MOFA to confirm the Apostille. This is often required for finalizing your work permit on the HiKorea.go.kr portal.
Read Also: Top 10 Career Opportunities in South Korea Highly Occupied by Foreign Workers
9. Work Permit and Supporting Documents
Within 90 days of entry, apply for your work permit and Alien Registration Card (ARC) at the nearest immigration office.
Supporting Files: You will need a medical check-up from a Korean hospital and your Apostilled SKCK. These permits are typically valid for 1–3 years based on your contract.
10. Anticipating Obstacles and Practical Tips
- Validity: Apostille stickers are generally valid for 6 months. Start your process at least 2 months before your intended departure.
- Professional Services: If you have a busy schedule, professional agencies offer “full service” for IDR 1–3 million.
- Digital Archives: Always keep digital scans of your legalized documents in the cloud for easy access.
The legalization process for South Korea has become significantly easier thanks to the Apostille system, but it still requires strict attention to detail. By following these steps in order, you can secure your visa and permit without unnecessary drama. Good luck in realizing your dream of working in the Land of the Morning Calm!
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