At a glance
- Foreigners can receive unemployment benefits if they were covered by employment insurance — which depends on the visa.
- You need 180 days of coverage in the 18 months before leaving, and you must have lost your job involuntarily.
- In 2026 the benefit is ₩66,048–₩68,100 a day (8-hour workers) for 120–270 days, tax-free.
Eligibility by visa
| Visa | Employment insurance (unemployment part) |
|---|---|
| F-2 (resident), F-5 (permanent), F-6 (marriage) | Covered like Korean workers |
| E-9, H-2 | Covered for job training and stability programs; the unemployment benefit part generally requires enrollment on application |
| Other work visas (E-1 to E-7, F-4 and others) | Generally covered only if you applied to join |
If you are not sure whether you were enrolled, check your payslip for an employment insurance deduction (0.9% of pay) or ask the Employment Center. Rules for foreigners have changed several times, so confirm your status by calling 1350.
Unemployment Benefit Calculator →Estimate your daily amount, days and totalOther conditions
- 180 days of insured work in the 18 months before your last day.
- Involuntary job loss — layoff, contract ending, closure, recommended resignation. Quitting voluntarily usually doesn't qualify unless there was an accepted reason such as unpaid wages or harassment.
- Able and willing to work, actively looking for a job, and legally allowed to work in Korea with your visa.
How much and for how long (2026)
- Daily amount: 60% of your average daily wage, with a maximum of ₩68,100 and a minimum of ₩66,048 for an 8-hour worker. Because the range is narrow, most people get almost the same amount.
- Duration: 120 to 270 days, depending on your age (under 50, or 50+/disabled) and how long you were insured.
- Example: under 50, insured 1–3 years, monthly wage ₩3 million → ₩66,048 × 150 days = ₩9,907,200.
How to apply
- Make sure your employer has filed your loss-of-employment report with the correct reason.
- Register as a job seeker on Work24 (work24.go.kr) and complete the online orientation.
- Visit your local Employment Center with your alien registration card to apply for recognition.
- Report your job search activities on the scheduled dates to keep receiving payments.
Apply soon after leaving: benefits can only be paid within 12 months of your last day, even if days remain. Losing a job can also affect your stay, so speak with immigration (1345) as well.
FAQ
Will receiving benefits affect my visa?
Receiving unemployment benefits itself is not a problem for F-2, F-5 and F-6 holders. For employment-based visas, losing your job can start a limited period to find a new employer, so check with immigration (1345) early.
Can I get benefits if I leave Korea?
No. You must be in Korea, available for work and actively looking for a job while receiving benefits.
Is there help in English?
The Employment and Labor helpline 1350 offers interpretation in many languages. Some Employment Centers also have staff for foreign job seekers.