Student Visa Types
You need the appropriate visa to study in Korea. You should obtain either a D-2 or D-4 visa depending on your degree program or language training.
D-2 (Study) Visa
This visa is for studying in university degree programs.
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| D-2-1 | 전문학사 과정 (2~3년제 전문대학) |
| D-2-2 | 학사 과정 (4년제 대학교) |
| D-2-3 | 석사 과정 |
| D-2-4 | 박사 과정 |
| D-2-5 | 연구 과정 (박사 후 연수 등) |
| D-2-6 | 교환학생 (1~2학기) |
| D-2-7 | 학위 연계 어학연수 (어학당 + 학위과정) |
| D-2-8 | 단기 과정 (6개월 이하) |
Requirements
- Standard admission letter (issued by university)
- Proof of financial ability (bank statement, etc.)
- Academic credentials (diploma, transcript)
Visa Application Process
- Receive admission letter (Standard Admission Letter) from university
- Prepare visa application documents (financial proof, academic credentials, etc.)
- Apply for visa at the Korean Embassy/Consulate in your country
- Visa issued after review (usually takes 1-4 weeks)
- Receive passport with visa sticker and enter Korea
Financial Proof Guide
Bank statements must show funds maintained for at least 1 month. Accounts can be in your name or your parents' name. Required amounts may vary by country, so check with your local Korean embassy.
- Bachelor's/Master's: Approximately $10,000~$20,000 or more
- GKS Scholarship recipients: Can be replaced with scholarship certificate
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D-4 (Training) Visa
This visa is for non-degree programs such as language training.
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| D-4-1 | 대학 부설 어학당 (한국어 연수) |
| D-4-7 | 외국어 연수 (영어 등) |
Requirements
- Language institute admission letter
- Proof of financial ability
- Must maintain 80% or higher attendance
Visa Application Process
- Receive admission letter from your chosen language institute
- Prepare all required documents (financial proof, academic certificates, etc.)
- Submit visa application at the Korean embassy/consulate in your home country
- Pay the visa fee ($50~$80 USD, varies by country)
- Wait for processing (usually 2~4 weeks)
- Once approved, collect your passport with visa sticker and book your flight to Korea! ✈️
Start preparing documents 2 months before enrollment. You must apply for the visa within 90 days after receiving the admission letter.
Financial Proof Requirements
You must demonstrate financial stability when applying for a D-4 visa.
- Bank statement in your name or parent/guardian's name
- Recommended amount: Approx. ₩10,000,000~₩12,000,000 KRW ($7,500~$9,000 USD)
- If sponsored by parents: Sponsorship Letter + Parent's bank statement required
Additional Documents by Country
Some countries may require additional documents. Always confirm with your local Korean embassy.
- Personal Statement or Study Plan - A brief essay explaining why you want to study in Korea
- Health Check or TB Test - Required for students from certain countries
- Criminal Background Check - Not always required, but some embassies may ask for it
Applications may be rejected if documents are incomplete. Always check the latest requirements on the embassy website.
Visa Application Fee
Fees may vary by country. Please confirm with your local embassy.
Approx. $50~$80 USD (varies by country)
Duration and Extension
Initially 6 months to 1 year, extendable up to 2 years (in 6-month increments)
Extension Requirements
- Maintain 80% or higher attendance at language institute
- Continuous enrollment (consecutive semesters)
- TOPIK level improvement recommended (advantageous for extension)
D-4 → D-2 Visa Conversion
After language training, you can change to a D-2 visa at the Immigration Office when enrolling in a Korean university degree program.
- Standard admission letter from university
- Language institute attendance and transcript
- Proof of financial ability (additional submission)
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Alien Registration
Alien registration is the most important procedure for legal residence in Korea. The Alien Registration Card (ARC) serves as your ID and is essential for opening bank accounts, getting a phone, and other daily activities.
How to Apply (2 methods)
- ① Online reservation: Make a reservation on Hi Korea (www.hikorea.go.kr) and visit the Immigration Office
- ② University group application: Some universities process applications through the International Office (check with your school)
Required Documents
| Document | Note |
|---|---|
| Passport | Original (including visa page) |
| Alien registration application | Download from Hi Korea or fill out on-site |
| Standard admission letter | Copy acceptable |
| Enrollment certificate | Issued by university (English preferred) |
| Photo | 3.5×4.5cm, taken within 6 months, white background |
| Fee | ₩30,000 (Card payment available) |
| Residence proof | Dormitory contract, lease agreement, or accommodation confirmation |
Processing time: About 2-3 weeks (May take 4+ weeks during peak season)
How to Receive ARC
- By mail: Delivered via registered mail (ensure correct address)
- In person: Visit the Immigration Office again (reservation required)
How to Use ARC
- Use as ID when opening a bank account
- Subscribe to postpaid mobile plans
- Apply for part-time work permit
- Register at libraries, gyms, etc.
- Identity verification at medical institutions
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Status Change
If your purpose or program changes during your studies, you must also change your visa status. Status changes must be applied for before your current visa expires.
D-4 → D-2 Change
Change from language training (D-4) to university degree program (D-2). This is the most common path for international students.
Requirements for Change
- Language institute attendance rate of 80% or higher
- University admission letter obtained
- TOPIK Level 3 or higher, or passing university's Korean language test (varies by school)
Required Documents
- Integrated application form
- Passport and ARC
- University admission letter
- Language institute attendance and grade certificate
- Proof of financial ability
D-2 → D-10 Change (Job Seeking After Graduation)
To seek employment in Korea after graduation, you must change to D-10 (Job Seeking Visa). You can conduct job search activities for up to 2 years.
- Graduation certificate or expected graduation certificate
- Transcript
- Job search activity plan
- Resume
- Proof of financial ability
D-10 → E-7 Change (Employment)
Once you find employment, change from D-10 to E-7 (Specific Activities) visa. Employment contract and company recommendation letter are required.
Application: Local Immigration Office or Hi Korea online (partially available)
Processing Time: About 2-4 weeks (may vary depending on review)
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Stay Extension
If your stay period expires during your degree program, you need to apply for an extension. Unlike status change, stay extension maintains your current visa type while only extending the period.
Application Methods
- Online: Hi Korea (www.hikorea.go.kr) - Most convenient
- In-person: Local Immigration Office (reservation required)
Required Documents
| Document | Note |
|---|---|
| Integrated application form | - |
| Passport and ARC | - |
| Enrollment certificate | Current semester |
| Transcript | Previous semester |
| Attendance certificate | 80% or higher |
| Financial proof | Bank statement, etc. |
| Fee | ₩60,000 |
Extension Period Available
- D-2: Up to 2 years per extension (until expected graduation)
- D-4: 6 months to 1 year per extension (maximum 2 years total)
Reasons for Extension Denial
- Attendance rate below 80%
- Poor academic performance (varies by school)
- Insufficient financial proof
- Applying while on leave of absence (must be enrolled)
- History of illegal employment
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Address Change Report
You must report when you move or change your residence. This applies when moving from a dormitory to a studio apartment, or to a different area.
How to Report (3 options)
- ① Online: Hi Korea (www.hikorea.go.kr) - Most convenient and fast
- ② Community Center: Visit the community center in your new residence area (processed immediately)
- ③ Immigration Office: Convenient when handling other tasks together
Required Documents
- Address change report form (fill out on-site or download from Hi Korea)
- Passport (original)
- ARC (original)
- New residence proof (one of the following)
Types of Residence Proof
- Lease agreement (in your name, or co-resident's name + consent form)
- Dormitory confirmation (issued by school)
- Accommodation confirmation letter (written by host for staying at acquaintance's home)
- Goshiwon/shared house contract
Fee: Free
Processing Time: Instant online~1 day, instant when visiting community center
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Part-time Work
International students can work part-time with proper authorization. You need to obtain a part-time work permit from the Immigration Office before starting work.
Eligibility
- D-2 or D-4 visa holders
- Can apply after 6 months from entry
Permitted Hours (2024 Standard)
| Category | During Semester | During Vacation |
|---|---|---|
| Language student (D-4) | 20 hrs/week | No limit |
| Undergraduate (D-2) | 25 hrs/week | No limit |
| Graduate (D-2) | 30 hrs/week | No limit |
※ During vacation, you can work without hour limits (except prohibited industries). However, it's only valid within your permit period.
2024 Minimum Wage
Hourly: ₩9,860
Monthly (based on 40 hrs/week): Approx. ₩2.06M
Minimum wage applies to part-time work too. You can report to the Labor Office if paid below minimum wage.
Required Documents for Permit
- Part-time work permit application
- Passport and ARC (original)
- Enrollment certificate (current semester)
- Transcript (previous semester, C grade average or higher)
- Employment contract or offer letter
- Fee: Free
Processing Time: About 3-7 days (for online applications)
Popular Part-time Jobs for Students
- Convenience stores, cafes, restaurant service
- Campus work-study (library, admin office, etc.)
- Translation/interpretation work
- Tutoring (teaching native language, etc.)
- Logistics centers, delivery (during vacation)
Prohibited Industries (Absolutely not allowed!)
- Entertainment venues (karaoke hostess, bars, etc.)
- Massage parlors, adult establishments
- Gambling-related businesses
- Other industries against public order
Penalties for Illegal Employment
- Fines (up to ₩20 million)
- Deportation and entry ban (1-10 years)
- Visa cancellation and loss of residency status
- Employer is also subject to penalties
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Work Visa
After graduation, you'll need to change your visa to continue staying in Korea for employment. The most common paths are D-10 (Job Seeking) → E-7 (Specific Activities).
D-10 (Job Seeking) Visa
This visa allows you to seek employment in Korea after graduation. You can stay up to 2 years for job searching.
Eligibility
- Associate degree or higher from a Korean university
- Apply within 6 months of graduation
- Good academic record and attendance
Required Documents
- Integrated application form
- Passport and ARC
- Graduation certificate or expected graduation certificate
- Transcript
- Job search activity plan
- Resume
- Financial proof (bank statement)
Stay Period: Initial 6 months, extendable up to 2 years (in 6-month increments)
Activities Allowed on D-10 Visa
- Job seeking activities (interviews, job fairs, etc.)
- Internship (up to 1 year, separate permit required)
- Technical training and vocational education
- Part-time work (part-time work permit required)
E-7 (Specific Activities) Visa
The most common visa for professional employment. Requirements vary by occupation.
Main Requirements
- Associate degree or higher (in related field)
- Employment contract (with company)
- Company's employment recommendation letter
- TOPIK Level 4 or higher (for some occupations)
- Meet occupation-specific experience/certification requirements
Major Work Visas Comparison
| Visa | Target | Features |
|---|---|---|
| E-7 | 전문직 취업 | 가장 일반적, 직종별 요건 상이 |
| E-1~E-6 | 교수, 연구, 기술지도, 예술 등 | 전문 분야별 특수 비자 |
| F-2-7 | 점수제 거주 비자 | 우수 인재, 취업 제한 없음 |
| F-5 | 영주권 | 5년 이상 체류 후 신청 가능 |
F-2-7 Points-based Residence Visa
This visa uses a points system based on education, age, Korean proficiency, salary, social contribution, etc. You can apply if you score 80 points or more. There are no employment restrictions, so you can freely change jobs.
- Education: Bachelor's 26pts, Master's 30pts, Doctorate 35pts
- Korean: TOPIK Level 6 20pts, Level 5 15pts
- Age: 20s 25pts, 30s 20pts
- Salary: Extra points for 2x GNI or higher
Contact
- Immigration Contact Center: 1345 (24 hours, multilingual)
- Hi Korea Website:
- Foreign Worker Support Center: 1577-0071
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Can I work part-time on a D-2 or D-4 visa?
Yes, but you need to apply for a Part-time Work Permit first. D-2 visa holders can work up to 20 hours/week during semesters (unlimited during vacations). D-4 holders can work up to 20 hours/week after 6 months of study.
Q. How long does it take to get an Alien Registration Card (ARC)?
Usually 2-3 weeks after application. You can apply at the immigration office after arriving in Korea. The ARC is essential for banking, phone contracts, and many other services.
Q. Can I change from D-4 to D-2 visa?
Yes, if you get accepted into a degree program at a Korean university. You'll need admission documents and can apply for status change at the immigration office without leaving Korea.
Q. What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying is illegal and results in fines, deportation, and potential entry ban. Always apply for extension before your visa expires. You can apply up to 4 months before expiration.
Q. Can I stay in Korea after graduation to find a job?
Yes! You can change to D-10 (Job-seeking) visa within 6 months of graduation. This allows you to stay for up to 2 years while searching for employment.
Q. Where can I check my visa status and expiration date?
Visit Hi Korea (www.hikorea.go.kr) or call 1345. You can check your status, apply for extensions, and make appointments online.