Do you need to duty in South Korea? Many persons dream of living in this nation. South Korea is very famous for K-pop, food, culture, and technology. It is also a save and modern area to live.
One of the easiest jobs for foreigners is dishwasher or kitchen helper. These jobs are simple, but you must follow the official steps to get a visa. South Korea has a special system for foreign workers. You cannot just find a company and ask them for a visa. You must use the government system.
This guide will show you the real way to get a dishwasher job in South Korea in 2025.
1. The Official Pathway: South Korea’s Employment Permit System (EPS)
For jobs like dishwasher, there is only one way. This way is called the Employment Permit System (EPS).
The EPS is run by the Korean government. Two main groups manage it:
- Ministry of Employment and Labor (MOEL)
- Human Resources Development Service of Korea (HRD Korea)
This system helps Korean companies find workers. It also protects foreign workers from bad treatment.
How Does the EPS Work?
The process is very clear:
- EPS-TOPIK Test
First, you must take a Korean language test. This test is called EPS-TOPIK. You must pass it. Without passing, you cannot join the program. - Job Application
After passing the test, your name goes into a worker list. This list is shared with Korean companies. - Work Permit and Contract
If a company needs a dishwasher or kitchen helper, they can choose you from the list. They will then make a work contract and apply for your work permit. - E-9 Visa
With your contract and permit, you can go to the Korean embassy in your country. You apply for the E-9 visa. This visa allows you to live and work in Korea.
This way is safe and legal. It gives you protection and rights.
2. Essential Requirements for the E-9 Visa
To join EPS and get the E-9 visa, you must meet some rules.
Documents You Need
- Passport: Valid for at least six months.
- Education Certificate: At least high school diploma.
- Police Paper: A certificate that shows you have no crime record.
- Medical Check: A health check, including a TB test.
- Korean Language Test: You must pass the EPS-TOPIK.
Work Expectations
Dishwasher and kitchen helper jobs are simple, but not easy. You need:
- Strong body: You stand many hours and move a lot.
- Team spirit: You work with chefs and other staff.
- Basic kitchen skills: Knowing about food safety and cleaning helps you.
3. Salary, Benefits, and Cost of Living in 2025
South Korea pays good salary, even for simple jobs. You also get more benefits from the govt methods.
Salary
- The minimum wage in 2025 is related 10,000 won every hour (around $7.50 USD).
- If you duty full-time, you can earn more than 2 million won every month.
Benefits
When you duty under EPS, you get:
- Medical Treatment
- National pension
- Accident insurance
- Severance payment (extra money when your contract ends)
Many industries also give:
- Free or cheap housing
- Free or cheap meals
This saves you a lot of money.
Cost of Living
- Food can be costly in restaurants, but many jobs include meals.
- Transport is cheap and easy.
- Rent is expensive in big cities, but often the company gives you a room.
With simple living, you can save money and also send money home.
4. FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Can I get a dishwasher visa job without EPS?
No. For dishwasher jobs, you cannot. The E-7 visa is for skilled workers. For unskilled jobs, only EPS is allowed.
Is the EPS-TOPIK test hard?
The test has two parts. One is multiple-choice questions, and one is simple skills. If you study basic Korean, you can pass.
What happens after I arrive in South Korea?
Your employer will help you. You will sign your work contract. Then you must apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC). This card is your Korean ID. You must have it to live and work legally.
Final Thoughts: Your Journey to a New Life
Getting a dishwasher job in South Korea is possible in 2025. You must follow the Employment Permit System (EPS). You cannot skip it. The most important step is to pass the EPS-TOPIK test.
The process takes time, but it is safe. You get a fair salary, benefits, and legal protection. You also get the chance to live in South Korea, a country full of opportunities.
So, if you want this job, start preparing now. Study Korean, prepare your documents, and wait for your chance.
Your new life in Korea can begin with one small step: passing the EPS test.
Author’s Bio
Shoaib Khan is a worker visa guide with more than 10 years of work experience. He helps foreign workers understand how to work legally in Asia. He gives simple and clear advice to avoid scams and follow real government rules.