Want to freelance in Korea? Only possible with the right visa. Most work visas tie you to a specific employer.
π Visa Options
| Visa | Freelance? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| D-8 | Yes (own company) | 100M+ KRW investment |
| F-2 | Yes | Most work allowed |
| F-5 | Yes | No restrictions |
| F-6 | Yes | Marriage migrant |
| F-4 | Yes | Overseas Korean |
| E-7 | No | Employer-tied |
π Extra Activities Permission
If your visa doesn't allow freelancing, apply at immigration. Fee: 120,000 KRW. Not guaranteed.
π’ Business Registration
Register as κ°μΈμ¬μ μ at tax office for invoices, expense deduction, and proper filing.
π° Taxes
- Foreign workers: optional flat 19% for up to 20 years
- Freelance income: progressive 6β45%
- NHIS mandatory
β οΈ Warning
Working without authorization on student or tourist visa: fines up to 30M KRW and deportation.