Guide to South Korea Student Visas: Application, Extensions, and Part-Time Work Permits for International Students

 

Are you planning to study in South Korea?

 

Understanding the visa process, how to extend your stay, and the regulations around part-time work is essential for a smooth and successful academic experience.

 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about student visas for international students in South Korea, from the types of visas available to the steps for applying and obtaining permission to work while studying.

 

1. Types of Student Visas

 

If you want to study in Korea, you generally have two main visa options:

 

 

1. D-2 Visa (Degree-Seeking Student Visa):
This visa is for students enrolled in undergraduate, master's, or doctoral degree programs at a university.

 

2. D-4 Visa (Language Training Visa):
This visa is for students who are enrolled in Korean language programs or other educational institutions for language training.

 

 

 

2. How to Apply for a Visa

 

The visa application process is as follows:

 

1. Prepare the Documents:

• Admission letter from a Korean educational institution
• Passport and passport-sized photos
• Visa application form (available from the Korean embassy or consulate)
• Tuition fee receipt and financial proof (such as a bank statement)
• Family relationship certificate (if required)

2. Visit the Korean Embassy or Consulate:
You need to apply for the visa at the Korean embassy or consulate in your home country. Each embassy may have slightly different requirements, so check in advance.

 

3. Processing Time:
Visa processing typically takes about 2-4 weeks, depending on the embassy's workload.

 

 

3. How to Extend Your Stay

 

If you need to extend your visa, follow this process:

 

1. Visit the Immigration Office:
You can apply for an extension from 4 months before your visa expiration date up until the expiration date.

 

2. Required Documents:

• Application for extension of stay
• Passport and alien registration card
• Enrollment certificate or academic transcript from your school
• Proof of tuition payment
• Financial proof (may be requested when extending)

   - Online Application:
     You can also apply for a visa extension online through the HiKorea website.

 

 

https://www.hikorea.go.kr/Main.pt

홈 < 하이코리아

 

 

 

4. Part-Time Job Permit

 

International students need permission to work part-time:

 

1. Part-Time Work Eligibility:

• D-2 visa holders can work part-time during their studies. Undergraduate and master's students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week, while doctoral students can work up to 30 hours per week. There are no time restrictions during school breaks.

 

2. How to Apply:
You need to visit the immigration office with a permission letter from your school and your alien registration card to apply for a work permit. Once approved, your visa will include a notation that permits part-time work.

 

3. Important Notes:

• Working without a permit can result in fines or visa cancellation.
• Jobs in certain sectors, like entertainment establishments, are off-limits for international students.

 

This information is essential for ensuring that international students can live and study in Korea legally and safely.

 

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Navigating the student visa process and adapting to life in South Korea can be challenging, but with the right information, you can make informed decisions and enjoy a rewarding study experience.

 

Whether you're preparing to apply for your visa, extend your stay, or seek part-time employment, following the guidelines outlined in this post will help ensure that your time in South Korea is as stress-free as possible.

 

Best of luck on your journey!