South Korea Send-Off Package

Arrive in Korea stress-free with one-on-one support on your South Korea Working Holiday Visa application and everything you need to live, work and travel in Korea. All you need to do is focus on planning the fun stuff!

Start Dates

Year-round

Duration

1 - 24 months

Cost

C$499

Program Overview

Dreaming of traveling to South Korea but feeling overwhelmed by the Working Holiday Visa process? Let our team of experts help you! Your personal travel advisor will walk you through each step of the application and ensure your documentation is completed correctly. 

Prior to your departure, receive a one-on-one video call orientation where you will be equipped with lots of information needed to begin living, working, and traveling in South Korea. Start your South Korean Working Holiday off right and let our travel experts share their wealth of knowledge to prepare you for a seamless and stress-free transition to the Land of the Morning Calm.

What’s Included

Pre-departure

  • Step-by-step South Korea Working Holiday Visa application consultation
  • Review of your visa application documents to ensure they are completed correctly
  • Korean resume template and job resources
  • Info package with everything you need to know about living in South Korea
  • One-on-one video call orientation before your departure explaining health insurance, setting up a bank account, phone plans, finding a job, and much more!
  • Find the perfect place to live with our trusted accommodation providers

In Country

  • Legal right to live and work throughout South Korea
  • Assistance with foreign registration documents
  • Support with health insurance registration
  • Information guide and resources to help you find a job in South Korea
  • Support from our team leading up to your trip and throughout
  • Tax return assistance

The Fun Stuff!

  • Invitation to connect with other Stepabroad South Korean participants and alumni!
  • Immerse yourself in local South Korean customs and traditions for a deeper experience!
  • Make long-lasting memories exploring the world with no stress.
  • Satisfy your taste buds with diverse local cuisine and food adventures.
  • Have a blast improving your South Korean language skills in a native-speaking environment.

What’s Not Included:

Flights, medical insurance, South Korea working holiday visa and/or work permit application fees, local transportation, food & rent.

What Will I Do?

Although there are restrictions that prevent Working Holiday visa holders from obtaining some professional roles in South Korea, you will be able to work a casual role to help fund your stay! Work for accommodation positions can also help to decrease your living costs, making your stay much more affordable. Our team will explain your work permit regulations and provide you with helpful resources to point your job search in the right direction.

Possible Working Holiday Jobs

  • Restaurant or Kitchen Staff
  • Customer Service
  • Retail
  • Sales
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Language Cafe Assistants

Want to Stepabroad to South Korea?

Interested in learning more about applying for a working holiday in South Korea? Get in touch to speak with one of our expert travel coordinators today to start planning your adventure!

Let’s Get Started!

The application takes anywhere from 1-4 weeks to be approved, but it takes at least a few weeks to gather all your visa application documents! We recommend preparing for your journey at least 3-4 months prior to your ideal departure date to South Korea.

Please note: South Korea Working Holiday Visa applications made with less than five weeks before your departure may not be approved in time.

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Travel Insurance

We know that travelling with a peace of mind is important to you. That’s why it’s a good idea to have travel insurance in case something unexpectedly goes wrong while you’re abroad.

FAQs

Do I need to be in Canada to apply for a Working Holiday Visa for South Korea?

Yes, this is non-negotiable. To apply for the South Korea Working Holiday Visa, you must be a Canadian resident and physically in Canada during the application process.

Documents must be obtained from Canada, and in-person appointments are required at the consulate in your jurisdiction. If you’re overseas, you’ll need to return to Canada before starting the application.

What are the most popular cities for Working Holiday makers in South Korea?

  • Seoul: South Korea’s capital offers vibrant nightlife, cultural landmarks, and countless hiking spots. It’s a great starting point for expats, with a large international community to help you settle in.
  • Gyeonggi Province (e.g., Incheon): These cities near Seoul offer a lower cost of living while keeping you close to the capital.
  • Busan: Known for its beaches and relaxed vibe.
  • Jeonju: Famous for its food scene, including the iconic Bibimbap.

How much money is required to be approved for a South Korea Working Holiday Visa as a Canadian?

You’ll need a bank statement showing at least $3,400 CAD and should plan for round-trip flights, which typically cost between $800–$1,500 CAD.

Remember, do not book flights until your visa is approved.

If it is an in-person visa application, how can Stepabroad support me?

Stepabroad provides step-by-step guidance for your South Korea Working Holiday Visa application, ensuring every document meets the strict consulate requirements.

We review all your paperwork to minimize the risk of rejection, helping you confidently complete your in-person appointment.

What is the processing timeline for the South Korea Working Holiday Visa for Canadians?

It typically takes 2–3 months to gather the necessary documents and 2–4 weeks for visa processing after submission, depending on the consulate.

We recommend starting the process at least 3–4 months before your desired departure date.

Do I need to send my passport to get my South Korea Working Holiday Visa?

No. For in-person appointments, your South Korea Working Holiday Visa is issued as an electronic PDF, not a passport stamp.

If you mail your application (a rare case), you’ll need to send your original passport, which the consulate will hold during processing.

How long do I have after approval to travel to South Korea to start my Working Holiday?

  • 1-year visa: You have 1 year from approval to enter and activate your visa.
  • 2-year visa: You have 2 years to do so.

Check with your consulate for any specific conditions after your visa is approved.

What’s the best time of year to start a Working Holiday in South Korea?

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) are ideal for experiencing cherry blossoms or fall foliage.

Winter offers snow-filled activities like skiing, while summer is perfect for beaches and festivals. The South Korea Working Holiday Visa allows you to enjoy all four seasons!

Will I get support to find a job in South Korea during my Working Holiday?

Absolutely! Stepabroad connects you to job boards, recruitment agencies, and trusted employer contacts, especially in the English café industry. These opportunities ensure you can take full advantage of your Working Holiday in South Korea.

How do I find accommodation for my Working Holiday in South Korea?

We provide access to trusted accommodation partners, housing agents, and resources like Facebook groups to help you find housing. Whether you’re looking for a private room or a shared space, you’ll have options to suit your preferences

What kind of work do Canadians typically do on a South Korea Working Holiday?

Most Canadians work in:

  • Tourism and hospitality
  • English cafés
  • Customer service
  • Ski resorts (e.g., teaching kids how to ski)

The South Korea Working Holiday Visa allows you to work in almost any job except those that require professional qualifications or are against public morals.

How much money should I budget for my first months in South Korea if I don’t speak Korean?

The South Korean government believes that you will need at least $3,400 CAD in order to survive in South Korea for the first few weeks without a job.

Flights cost around $800-$1500 CAD depending on whether or not you are booking round-trip flights, and the average rent of a private room in a shared house in Seoul ranges from $600-$1000 CAD.

How much exactly you should budget really comes down to the location and your lifestyle and preference, so please feel free to schedule a call today with our Travel Coordinator who is from South Korea!