EPS-TOPIK Requirements for Filipinos: A Complete Checklist 2026

Before you spend a single peso on a review center or hours studying, the most important step is to find out: "Am I even eligible?"...

Before you spend a single peso on a review center or hours studying, the most important step is to find out: "Am I even eligible?"

The requirements for the EPS-TOPIK, as set by the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Korea's HRD, are extremely strict. If you fail to meet even one, you cannot proceed.

Here is your complete, no-nonsense 2026 checklist.

Part 1: Am I Eligible? (The "Go/No-Go" List)

This is the official list of qualifications. You must be able to say YES to every single point here.

• Age: You must be between 18 and 38 years old on the date of registration. (This is a firm rule. If you are 39, you are no longer eligible).

• Citizenship: You must be a Filipino citizen.

• Education: You must be at least a high school graduate.

• Criminal Record: You must have no criminal record for a serious offense punishable by imprisonment.

• Korea Travel History: You must have no history of deportation or a forced departure from the Republic of Korea.

• Illegal Stay: You must have never stayed illegally (overstayed) in South Korea.

• Philippines Travel Status: You must not be restricted from traveling or departing the Philippines (i.e., you have no "travel ban").

• Previous EPS Status: You must not have stayed in Korea for five years or more under the E-9 (work) or E-10 (seafarer) visa.

Part 2: The "Automatic Disqualifiers" (Health & Physical)

This is the section that causes the most confusion and heartbreak. Be brutally honest with yourself here.

• Color Vision: You must NOT be color-blind or have color weakness. This is an automatic disqualifier and will be checked during the medical exam and skills test.

• Physical Conditions: While you can still apply, those with the following conditions may be excluded during the 2nd round (Skills Test) or medical exam:

  • Herniated disc (slipped disc)

  • Amputated fingers or limbs

  • Severe back pain or joint problems

• Infectious Diseases: You must be free from infectious diseases like Tuberculosis (TB), Hepatitis, and Syphilis, which will be checked in the medical exam.

Part 3: The Document Checklist (What to Prepare NOW)

When the DMW announces the registration, you will only have a few days to apply. Slots fill up in minutes. You must have these digital files ready on your computer before the announcement.

1. A Valid Passport:

   • It must be your current, valid Philippine passport.

   • The Scan: You will need a clear, scanned copy of the data page (the page with your photo and info).

   • Digital Specs (Strict!): DMW advisories are very specific. The file must be:

     • Format: JPG

     • File Size: 90KB or 100KB or less

     • Dimensions: Often 800px (width) x 600px (height)

   • Pro-Tip: Do not just take a photo with your phone. Use a real scanner and save the file with the correct specs.

2. A Digital ID Photo:

   • It must be a formal, passport-sized photo (3.5cm x 4.5cm).

   • Must be taken within the last 6 months.

   • Must have a plain white background.

   • Digital Specs (Strict!):

     • Format: JPG

     • File Size: 13KB or 15KB or less

     • Dimensions: Often 300px (width) x 400px (height)

   • Pro-Tip: Get this done at a professional photo studio and ask for the digital file with these exact specifications.

3. A Working Email Account:

   • Use a professional-sounding Gmail account that you check every day. This is where all official notifications will be sent.

If you meet all the eligibility requirements and have these documents ready, you are in the perfect position to apply as soon as the DMW makes the official announcement.

➡️ Now that you know the requirements, learn about the schedule: [EPS-TOPIK 2026 Exam Schedule in the Philippines (Official Dates & Updates)] 

➡️ Ready for the full overview? Read our pillar guide: [The Ultimate 2026 Guide to EPS-TOPIK for Filipinos]

Next Steps: Prepare Your Mind, Not Just Your Papers

Confirming your eligibility and gathering your documents is a critical first step, but it is only the beginning. Once you know you are qualified, the real challenge begins: mastering the language enough to pass the exam.

While you organize your files, make sure you are also organizing your study habits. Let Pinoy Seoul Radio be your productivity partner in this process. By streaming the sounds of Korea while you review, our app helps create an immersive environment that keeps your brain engaged and your motivation steady. Don't just be eligible—be prepared.

Download the app and start your immersive study routine: Get Pinoy Seoul Radio on Google Play

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