South Korea – D-2 Student Visa
By South Korea has become a top study destination thanks to its high educational standards, vibrant culture, and advanced technology. Popular fields include business, science, engineering, and Korean language studies.
To study in South Korea, international students must gain admission to an accredited university. After acceptance, they apply for the D-2 visa through a Korean embassy or consulate. Requirements include the admission letter, a valid passport, proof of financial resources (around ₩10 million), health insurance, and academic records.
Visa processing typically takes 2–4 weeks. Once in South Korea, students must register their residence and obtain an Alien Registration Card within 90 days.
Students can work part-time up to 20 hours per week during semesters (after completing six months of study) and unlimited hours during holidays. Work requires permission from immigration and a certificate from the school.
After graduation, students can apply for a job-seeking visa or convert to a work visa if they secure employment. Korea offers various employment pathways for international graduates in tech, manufacturing, and language education.
South Korea’s dynamic society, affordability, and strong academic institutions make it an increasingly attractive destination for international students.
South Korea – D‑2 Student Visa
A D‑2 visa is the primary residence permit for international students pursuing full-time degree programs in South Korea. Here’s a clear and detailed guide on the process, requirements, and student rights:
1. Who Needs It
Non-Korean nationals enrolling in a Korean university, college, or graduate school for full-time study generally require a D‑2 Student Visa.
2. Application Steps
a. Admission & CoE
- Secure an acceptance letter from a Korean institution.
- The university applies for a Certificate of Admission (sometimes called the CoE) from immigration on your behalf.
b. Visa Application
- Once the Certificate of Admission is issued, apply at a Korean embassy or consulate.
- Required documents typically include:
- Completed visa application form and passport photos
- Valid passport
- Certificate of Admission
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement, guarantor letter)
- Relevant identification documentation (e.g., criminal record check, health certificate)
Processing time varies but typically takes 2–4 weeks.
3. Upon Arrival
- Upon landing, you’ll receive an Alien Registration Card (ARC) at the immigration checkpoint or city hall.
- You must register your local address at your nearest immigration office or police station within 90 days.
4. Visa Duration & Renewal
- The D‑2 visa is issued for the duration of your academic program, usually 1–4 years.
- You must renew the visa annually by submitting proof of current enrollment and meeting academic progress requirements at the local immigration office before expiry.
5. Work Permissions
- Part-time work is allowed up to 20 hours per week during semesters with prior approval.
- During vacation periods, full-time work is permitted.
- Types of work allowed include language tutoring, internships, campus jobs, and certain service roles.
- Work permission is endorsed on your ARC; working beyond this cap can lead to fines, deportation, or visa cancellation.
6. Health Insurance & Student Support
- All D‑2 visa holders are required to enroll in National Health Insurance (NHI) through their university.
- Most universities provide orientation services and counseling to help students acclimate to Korean academic and cultural life.
7. After Graduation
- Graduates can apply to change their status to a job-seeker or employment visa (such as E‑7 for professionals, D‑10 for job search).
- The D‑10 visa (job-seeker) allows up to six months to secure employment after graduation.
- Once employed, you can apply for a relevant work visa and retire the job-seeker status.
8. Compliance & Obligations
- Maintain full academic enrollment and satisfactory progress.
- Report any changes in address, major, or school to immigration authorities.
- Keep your ARC valid and up to date.
- Do not work outside permitted hours or types—violations may result in visa cancellation or deportation.
Summary
- Obtain acceptance; university secures Certificate of Admission.
- Apply for D-2 visa at embassy with required documentation.
- Arrive in South Korea, receive your ARC, and register your address.
- Annually renew visa based on enrollment and academia.
- Work part-time with permission during studies, full-time during breaks.
- Health insurance and student support are mandatory.
- Upon graduation, apply for job-seeker status or work visa.
- Always comply with visa conditions to maintain legal status.
The D‑2 visa offers a structured pathway for studying, working part-time, and transitioning into professional life in South Korea. With proper planning and adherence to regulations, international students can make the most of their time in Korea.