D visa student visa and part time work rules guide 2026

Studying in South Korea offers a dynamic blend of high-tech modern living and deep-rooted tradition, but financing that lifestyle is a primary concern for many international students. Navigating the D Visa Student Visa and Part Time Work Rules is critical for any expat looking to supplement their income while pursuing education. With the cost of living in Seoul averaging between 1.2 million to ₩1.5 million (approx. $900-$1,150 USD) per month excluding tuition, securing legal part-time employment is often a necessity, not a luxury.

However, the Korea Immigration Service maintains strict oversight on student employment. Violating these rules can lead to heavy fines or deportation. This guide breaks down exactly how to legally work under D-2 (Degree) and D-4 (Language Trainee) visas, ensuring you stay compliant while earning.

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Understanding the Visa Types: D-2 vs. D-4

Before discussing work permits, it is essential to distinguish between the two primary student visas, as their work privileges differ significantly. The South Korean government issued over 200,000 student visas in the last fiscal year, with regulations tightening slightly in 2026 regarding attendance records.

Learn more in our comprehensive guide to Changing visa status while in Korea guide for expats.

D-2 Visa (Degree Seeking)

This visa is for individuals enrolled in Junior Colleges, Universities, or Graduate Schools.

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• Work Eligibility: Generally eligible immediately upon arrival, provided you have the permission from your university and immigration office.
• GPA Requirement: You must maintain a GPA of C (2.0/4.5) or higher to apply for work permission.

D-4 Visa (General Trainee/Language)

This visa is primarily for students studying Korean at a university-affiliated language institute.

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• Work Eligibility: strictly prohibited for the first 6 months of your stay.
• Attendance: You must maintain over 90% attendance to qualify for work permission after the 6-month waiting period.

The Golden Rule: Part-Time Work Permission (S-3)

You cannot simply walk into a cafe and start working. You must obtain "Permission for Part-time Activities outside the Status of Sojourn" (commonly referred to as the S-3 designation) from the Immigration Office.

The application process typically takes 1 to 2 weeks if done online via HiKorea, or it can be done instantly if you visit your local immigration office in person (appointment required). The immigration offices are generally located within 5 to 10 kilometers of major city centers.

Allowable Work Hours and TOPIK Requirements

The number of hours you can work is directly correlated to your Korean language proficiency. The government incentivizes learning Korean by offering more work hours to those with higher TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) scores.

Undergraduate Students (D-2)

• TOPIK Level 3 or higher: Up to 25 hours per week.
• Below TOPIK Level 3 (or no score): Limited to 10 hours per week.
• Note: First and second-year students usually need TOPIK 3; third and fourth-year students may require TOPIK 4 for maximum hours.

Graduate Students (D-2-3, D-2-4)

• TOPIK Level 4 or higher: Up to 35 hours per week.
• Below TOPIK Level 4: Limited to 15 hours per week.

Language Trainees (D-4)

• TOPIK Level 2 or higher: Up to 20 hours per week.
• Below TOPIK Level 2: 10 hours per week (after the 6-month wait).

Permitted vs. Prohibited Jobs

Not all jobs are open to international students. The government restricts industries to protect the local labor market and ensure students focus on their studies.

Permitted Jobs

• Service Industry: Convenience stores, restaurants, coffee shops.
• Office Support: Administrative assistant roles, translation, drafting documents.
• Education: Teaching a foreign language at a private academy (requires specific registration) or tutoring.
• Tourist Assistance: Tour guide assistant, duty-free shop sales.

Prohibited Jobs

• Manufacturing: Factory work is strictly banned for D-2 and D-4 holders (unless specific exceptions for master's/PhD students in related fields apply).
• Construction: Heavy labor sites are prohibited.
• Adult Entertainment: Bars, karaoke clubs (that serve alcohol/hostesses), and nightlife venues.
• Delivery Services: Rider jobs (motorcycle delivery) are generally restricted due to safety and visa category mismatches.

How to Apply for Work Permission

The application process involves coordination between your employer, your university, and the immigration office.

Financial Reality: Wages and Living Costs

Understanding the income potential versus the cost of living is vital. In 2026, the minimum wage stands at approximately ₩10,030 per hour.

If an undergraduate student works the maximum 25 hours per week, the monthly gross income would be approximately ₩1,003,000 (4 weeks).

Income Taxation

International students working part-time are considered freelancers or daily workers for tax purposes. A flat rate of 3.3% is usually deducted from your paycheck for income tax (3% income tax + 0.3% local residence tax). You do not need to file a complex year-end tax return unless you hold a full-time residency visa, but you can file in May to potentially get a refund.

As shown above, part-time work often covers living expenses (food, transport, bills) but rarely covers full tuition and high-end rent simultaneously. Most students need savings or parental support for tuition fees, which range from 3 million to ₩6 million per semester depending on the major.

Where to Find Jobs

Finding a job as a foreigner can be challenging if your Korean skills are limited. However, specific platforms cater to this demographic.

1. Alba Apps (Korean)

• AlbaMon & AlbaCheonguk: The two largest platforms. While entirely in Korean, they have the most listings. Search for keywords like "foreigner possible" or "English."
• Pro Tip: Create a resume in Korean, even if it is basic.

2. University Boards

Every university has an online community or physical bulletin board. Jobs listed here are often specifically looking for students from that university, making the hiring process smoother. Distance is also a factor; these jobs are usually within a 1-2 kilometer radius of campus.

3. Community Groups

Facebook groups such as "Jobs in Seoul" or "Part time jobs in Korea" are active. However, be wary of scams. Legitimate employers will never ask for an "application fee."

Pros and Cons of Working While Studying

Balancing academics and employment in Korea's intense educational environment requires discipline.

Vacation Period: The Exception

One of the massive benefits of the D-2 visa is the vacation period. During official semester breaks (Summer: July-August, Winter: January-February), the hourly restrictions are lifted for D-2 visa holders.

You can work unlimited hours during these periods, provided the job type remains within the permitted categories (no manufacturing). However, you must still have the S-3 permit active. This is the prime time for students to save money for the upcoming semester's tuition.

Change of Workplace

If you quit your job and find a new one, strictly speaking, you must report this change. You need to update your permission with the new employer's details.

Timeline: You must report the change before starting the new job (or within 15 days depending on the specific immigration officer's interpretation, but "before" is the safest legal route). Documents: New contract, new business license, and a new application form.

Penalties and Strict Enforcement

In 2026, the Ministry of Justice has integrated more digital tracking. If your bank account shows regular large deposits from a corporate account that isn't registered on your visa file, it triggers an automatic audit.

• First Violation: Fine (usually 10-30% of the illegal income earned).
• Second Violation: Cancellation of student visa and deportation.
• Employer Penalty: Employers hiring students illegally face fines up to ₩20 million and are banned from hiring foreigners for 3 years.

Conclusion

Working part-time in Korea as a student is a rewarding way to offset the high costs of living in dynamic cities like Seoul or Busan. By adhering to the D Visa Student Visa and Part Time Work Rules, you protect your academic future and gain valuable international work experience. Always prioritize your GPA and attendance, as these are the keys that unlock your ability to work.

Remember, the rules regarding TOPIK scores are strict. If you want to work more hours and earn more money, the best investment you can make is in your Korean language skills.