Here's a summary of the major changes to the E-7 (Specific Activities) visa taking effect in 2026. The minimum salary requirement has risen from 80% of GNI to 100% of GNI, with 90% applied for master's degree holders. The points system has also been reformed: the Korean language (TOPIK) bonus has expanded so that TOPIK Level 4 and above now gives 25 points instead of 20, and there's an additional 10 points for those holding a domestic Korean degree. The stay period has been extended too, with the initial grant changing from one year to two years and extensions possible up to three years. Job categories have broadened with additional openings in IT, bio, and semiconductor sectors, plus a new evaluation track for startup employment. You apply online at Hi Korea (www.hikorea.go.kr), and processing takes roughly 30 to 45 days.