How to Immigrate to South Korea from Bangladesh in 2026
Verified guide to South Korea work visa from Bangladesh 2026. EPS (Employment Permit System) E-9 visa, Korean language test (EPS-TOPIK), costs, and process.
Published by wheretoemigrate.io | Data-verified immigration authority
1. Executive Answer
Bangladeshi nationals seeking to work in South Korea in 2026 primarily use the Employment Permit System (EPS) under the E-9 visa category. South Korea and Bangladesh have a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the EPS, managed by HRD Korea and BOESL (Bangladesh Overseas Employment and Services Limited). Workers must pass the EPS-TOPIK (Korean Language Test) and register through the official government-to-government channel — private agencies are not involved. The E-9 visa covers 5 sectors: manufacturing, construction, agriculture/livestock, fisheries, and services. Initial duration is up to 3 years, extendable to 4 years 10 months. Monthly salaries range from KRW 2,000,000-3,000,000 (BDT 170,000-255,000). South Korea has approximately 45,000 Bangladeshi workers.
| Visa Category | Duration | Salary | Sectors |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-9 (EPS) | Up to 4 years 10 months | KRW 2,060,740+/month (2026 minimum wage) | Manufacturing, construction, agriculture, fisheries |
| E-7 (Skilled Professional) | 1-3 years (renewable) | Varies by occupation | 80+ designated professional occupations |
| E-9 Re-entry (Faithful Worker) | 4 years 10 months | Same as E-9 | Workers who completed first term compliantly |
| E-7-4 (Points-Based Skilled Worker) | Renewable | Higher than E-9 | E-9 workers scoring 200+ on points assessment |
2. Step-by-Step Process
EPS (Employment Permit System) — E-9 Visa
Who it's for: Bangladeshi workers aged 18-39 with no criminal record, seeking employment in manufacturing, construction, agriculture, fisheries, or services.
Phase A — Registration and Testing (Bangladesh)
1. EPS-TOPIK registration: Register through BOESL when HRD Korea announces the exam schedule.
2. EPS-TOPIK exam: Korean language proficiency test — listening and reading. Score 80+ out of 200 to pass.
3. Skills test: Sector-specific skills assessment may be required.
4. Job seeker registration: Successful candidates register on the EPS job matching system.
Phase B — Job Matching and Visa
1. Korean employers select workers from the EPS roster.
2. Standard Labour Contract (SLC) is signed — government-standardized with fixed minimum terms.
3. Worker undergoes medical examination at an approved center.
4. Pre-departure training (2-3 days) covering Korean workplace culture and labour rights.
5. Visa issuance: E-9 visa issued at the Korean Embassy in Dhaka.
6. BOESL arranges flight to South Korea.
Phase C — Arrival in South Korea
1. Arrive at Incheon International Airport.
2. Post-arrival training (2-3 days) at an HRD Korea training center.
3. Transfer to employer's workplace.
4. Register for Alien Registration Card (ARC).
5. Enroll in National Health Insurance.
6. Open a Korean bank account for salary deposits.
E-7-4 Points-Based Transition
Who it's for: E-9 workers with 4+ years in Korea scoring 200+ points on the assessment (Korean language, skills, income, employer recommendation, social integration). Provides renewable status, employer mobility, and a pathway to F-2 and F-5 (permanent residence).
3. Cost Breakdown
| Cost Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| EPS-TOPIK test fee | BDT 3,000-5,000 |
| Medical examination | BDT 5,000-8,000 |
| Pre-departure training | BDT 10,000-15,000 |
| BOESL processing fees | BDT 60,000-80,000 |
| Flight (Dhaka-Incheon) | BDT 40,000-60,000 |
| Insurance deposit (Return Guarantee) | USD 400 (refundable) |
| Total estimated cost | BDT 150,000-250,000 (USD 1,300-2,100) |
Important: The EPS is a government-to-government programme. Total costs should not exceed BDT 250,000. If any agent demands more, this is likely fraud. Only BOESL is authorized.
4. Processing Timeline
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| EPS-TOPIK preparation | 2-6 months |
| EPS-TOPIK exam + results | 1-2 months |
| Job matching via EPS roster | 1-12 months (varies) |
| Medical + pre-departure training | 2-4 weeks |
| Visa processing | 1-2 weeks |
| Total (from test to arrival) | 4-12 months |
Related Guides
Prepare Your Move
Essential tools. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.