Visa information
Study D-2 · General Training D-4
This guide explains the difference between the Study (D-2) and General Training (D-4) visas, limits on part-time work while enrolled, and the path to D-10 and E-7 after graduation from the perspective of an international-student hiring pipeline.
South Korea
At a glance
- D-2 eligibility
- International students in degree programs at junior college level or above, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs
- D-4 eligibility
- Students in language training or general training, including university-affiliated language institutes
- Work while enrolled
- Permission for activities outside status of stay (part-time work) is required; weekly-hour limits vary by program and stage
- Post-graduation path
- D-10 (job seeking) → conversion to an employment status such as E-7
- Employer perspective
- A pipeline that verifies workers through part-time work while enrolled, then hires them full-time upon graduation
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between D-2 and D-4?
D-2 is a status for international students in degree programs at junior college level or above, while D-4 is a status for non-degree trainees, including language trainees. A common path is to enter under D-4 for language study and later change to D-2.
Can international students be employed while they are enrolled?
Only international students who have received permission for activities outside status of stay (permission for part-time work) may be employed. Weekly working-hour limits differ according to degree program, year of study, and Korean-language ability, and there are limits on permitted industries.
How can we hire a graduated international student as a full-time employee?
The usual path is to change to D-10, the job-seeking status, after graduation and conduct job seeking; once hiring is confirmed, the person converts to an employment status such as E-7. The relationship between the major and the job is a key review point.
Why does hiring international students form a pipeline?
Part-time work while enrolled makes it possible to verify practical fit and Korean-language ability before leading to full-time employment at graduation, so it carries less risk than hiring someone overseas from the outset.
Related visas and systems
Visa schemes and figures may change in line with government notices and Cabinet decisions. This page provides general information as of the date of writing; please contact us to confirm the requirements that apply to your company and the latest criteria.
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