Korea C-4 Short-Term Work Visa Guide (2026)
The C-4 is Korea's visa for getting paid to do short work — a few weeks of performing, modeling, a paid competition, a short research stint. The line that trips people up is simple: if money is being paid to you, the tourist-style C-3 usually isn't enough, and the C-4 is the right status. This page explains who it's for, the 90-day limit, the contract you need, and how it differs from the C-3 — honestly, with the official sources that decide each case.
Who the C-4 visa is for
The C-4 (short-term employment) is for foreign nationals doing paid work in Korea for 90 days or less. The examples below are widely reported eligible activities — treat them as orientation, not a guaranteed list, since immigration decides what qualifies.
1. Performances & advertising
2. Paid competitions & events
3. Short research & commercial activity
C-3 vs C-4: the paid-work line
This is the distinction that matters most. The choice is driven by whether you are being paid.
| Visa | Typical use |
|---|---|
| C-3 (short-term visit) | Tourism, visiting, business meetings — no profit-making work |
| C-4 (short-term employment) | Short engagements where you receive wages or allowances |
If you are being paid for the work, the C-4 is generally correct rather than the C-3. The exact boundary is set officially — confirm which fits your activity on HiKorea or by calling 1345.
Duration, validity & the contract
The C-4 allows a stay of up to 90 days and is commonly issued as a single-entry visa valid for about 3 months from issuance, so you must enter Korea within that window. Because it is for paid work, you are typically required to attach a contract or invitation showing the engagement details and the compensation or allowances. Exact validity, stay length, and documents depend on your activity and nationality and are set officially — verify the current rules with your Korean embassy and on HiKorea before applying.
If you need to work longer
The C-4 is a short-term status and is generally not meant to be stretched into ongoing work. If you intend to work in Korea longer-term, you usually need a long-term work visa such as the E-7, which often requires applying from outside Korea or a change of status. If you stay over 90 days under any status, you must register and obtain a Residence Card (ARC). Confirm your options with immigration before relying on a C-4.
Frequently asked questions
What is the C-4 visa for?
Paid work in Korea for 90 days or less — performances, advertising/modeling, paid competitions, short research, and similar. Confirm your activity qualifies officially.
How is C-4 different from C-3?
C-3 is for non-paid short visits (tourism, meetings); C-4 is for short activities where you receive wages or allowances. If you're being paid, C-4 is generally correct.
How long can I stay?
Up to 90 days, commonly as a single-entry visa valid about 3 months from issuance. Verify current validity on HiKorea or with your embassy.
Do I need a contract?
Generally yes — a contract or invitation showing the engagement and the compensation. Exact documents depend on your activity and nationality.
Can I extend or switch to long-term work?
The C-4 isn't meant for ongoing work. For longer work you usually need an E-series visa (e.g. E-7), often via a separate application or change of status.