Korean Student Visa Guide: Requirements & Application Process

Studying in South Korea offers international students an exciting opportunity for high-quality education and cultural experiences. However, before beginning your academic journey, you'll need to obtain a Korean student visa. Understanding the visa requirements and application process is essential for a smooth transition to studying in South Korea.

 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Korean student visas, including visa types, required documents, application steps, processing times, and tips for approval.

 

Step 1: Determine the Right Student Visa Type

South Korea offers two main types of student visas:

 

Common Korean Student Visa Types:

- D-2 Visa (Regular Student Visa) – For students enrolled in full-time degree programs at universities or graduate schools.

- D-4 Visa (General Training Visa) – For students attending language courses, vocational training, or research programs.

 

Each visa type has specific eligibility criteria, so choose the one that matches your study plans.

 

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

The documents required for a Korean student visa vary by nationality and university but typically include:

 

General Requirements:

✔ Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your visa application date.

✔ Visa Application Form – Available from the Korean embassy or consulate website.

✔ Recent Passport-Size Photo – Taken within the last 6 months.

✔ Certificate of Admission (표준입학허가서) – Issued by your Korean university.

✔ Proof of Financial Stability – Bank statements showing sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.

✔ Tuition Payment Receipt – Proof of initial tuition payment.

✔ Health Certificate (if required) – Some universities require a medical examination.

✔ Visa Fee – Payment varies by nationality and visa type.

 

Additional Documents Based on Visa Type:

- For D-2 Visa (Degree Programs):

- University acceptance letter

- Academic transcripts and diplomas

- Proof of accommodation in Korea

- For D-4 Visa (Language Programs):

- Certificate of enrollment in a Korean language institute

- Proof of Korean language study plans

 

Check with your local Korean consulate for specific requirements, as additional documents may be needed depending on your country of residence.

 

Step 3: Submit the Visa Application

After gathering all required documents, submit your visa application.

 

Where to Apply?

1. Korean Embassy or Consulate – If applying from your home country.

2. Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) – In countries where KVAC services are available.

3. Korean Immigration Office (if applying from within Korea) – For visa extensions or status changes.

 

Visa Application Process:

✔ Step 1: Check specific requirements on your local Korean embassy's website.

✔ Step 2: Download and complete the student visa application form.

✔ Step 3: Prepare all documents with Korean or English translations if needed.

✔ Step 4: Submit your application at the Korean Embassy, KVAC, or Immigration Office.

✔ Step 5: Pay the visa processing fee.

✔ Step 6: Receive your submission receipt and note the processing time.

 

Step 4: Track Your Visa Status

After submission, track your visa status online:

✔ Visit the Korean embassy website or KVAC portal.

✔ Enter your passport number and application receipt number.

✔ Check for updates on visa approval or document requests.

 

Processing Time (Estimated):

- D-2 Visa (Degree Program): 2-4 weeks

- D-4 Visa (Language Training): 2-3 weeks

 

If your visa is delayed or rejected, you may need to provide additional documentation or clarification.

 

Step 5: Receive Your Visa & Prepare for Korea

 

If Approved:

✔ Collect your visa-stamped passport from the embassy or visa center.

✔ Verify visa details (name, passport number, validity dates).

✔ Book your flight and accommodation.

✔ Prepare necessary health or quarantine documents (if applicable).

 

If Rejected:

✔ Review the rejection reason (if provided by the embassy).

✔ Consider reapplying with additional supporting documents.

✔ Seek legal assistance if needed.

 

Common FAQs About Korean Student Visas

 

1. Can I work in Korea with a student visa?

Yes, D-2 and D-4 visa holders can work part-time with Immigration Office approval, subject to work-hour limits.

 

2. How much is the Korean student visa fee?

- Single-entry visa: $50 USD

- Multiple-entry visa: $80 USD

 

3. Can I extend my student visa?

Yes, you can apply for a visa extension at the Korean Immigration Office before your current visa expires.

 

4. Do I need health insurance to study in Korea?

Yes, all international students in Korea are required to enroll in National Health Insurance (NHI).

 

5. Can I apply for a student visa online?

No, you must apply at a Korean embassy or consulate.

 

Obtaining a Korean student visa is a crucial step toward studying in South Korea. Following this step-by-step guide carefully will help ensure a successful visa application and prevent delays. Remember to gather all required documents, verify requirements at your local embassy, and apply well in advance.

For official updates, visit the Korean Immigration Service website or contact your university's international office.