South Korea has become a global education hotspot, attracting thousands of international students each year. Known for its cutting-edge technology, respected universities, vibrant culture, and high-quality education system, the country offers excellent opportunities for immigrants seeking to study and build a future in Asia.
In 2025, the South Korea Study Visa (D-2 Visa) is one of the most accessible and well-supported immigration routes for foreign students. Whether you’re aiming to study language, pursue a degree, or conduct research, this visa opens the door to a world of academic excellence—and in many cases, visa sponsorships and scholarships are available.
What is the South Korea Study Visa?
The D-2 Study Visa is issued to international students admitted to a recognized South Korean university or college. It allows you to live, study, and even work part-time during your academic stay in Korea.
| Feature | Description |
| Visa Type | D-2 Study Visa |
| Eligibility | International students accepted by Korean institutions |
| Duration | Valid for the length of study (1–4 years) |
| Work Rights | Part-time work allowed (up to 20 hours/week) |
| Sponsorship | Many universities offer scholarships or housing |
Key Benefits of the South Korea Study Visa
| Benefit | Description |
| World-Class Education | Study at top universities like Seoul National, KAIST, etc. |
| Affordable Tuition | Lower than many Western countries |
| Work While Studying | Legally work part-time jobs to support your expenses |
| Visa Sponsorship Opportunities | Many schools offer financial aid or sponsorship |
| Path to Work and Residency | Transition to job-seeking (D-10) or work (E-7) visa |
Types of South Korea Student Visas
| Visa Type | Purpose |
| D-2 | Degree programs (Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) |
| D-4 | Non-degree programs (language schools, training, etc.) |
| D-10 | Post-study job-seeking visa (transition after D-2) |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a South Korea Study Visa, you must:
- Be accepted into a Korean university or language institute
- Demonstrate financial ability to support tuition and living costs
- Have a valid passport and clean criminal record
- Show academic transcripts and proof of graduation
- Provide medical clearance if required by your institution
How to Apply for the South Korea Study Visa
- Apply and Get Admission to a Korean University
- Choose a school and program, then submit your application
- Receive the Certificate of Admission
- Issued by the university for visa processing
- Gather Your Visa Documents
- See list of required documents below
- Apply for the D-2 Visa at a Korean Embassy or Consulate
- Submit in person or through mail with the application fee
- Receive Your Visa and Book Travel
- Once approved, you can enter South Korea and register as a student
Required Documents
| Document | Description |
| Valid Passport | Must have at least 6 months’ validity |
| Completed Visa Application Form | Available from Korean visa portal or embassy |
| University Admission Letter | Certificate of Admission (CoA) from your Korean institution |
| Financial Proof (min. $10,000 USD) | Bank statement, scholarship letter, or sponsor details |
| Academic Transcripts and Certificates | From previous schools or universities |
| Passport Photos | Standard passport-sized photos (2 copies) |
| Visa Fee Receipt | Payment for visa processing |
Visa Sponsorship for the South Korea Study Visa
Many universities and government programs offer visa sponsorship in the form of scholarships, including:
| Sponsorship Program | Description |
| GKS (Global Korea Scholarship) | Full tuition, airfare, stipend, and housing covered |
| University Scholarships | Offered by universities like Yonsei, Korea Univ., KAIST |
| Private/Corporate Sponsors | For specific majors (engineering, business, etc.) |
Visa sponsorship usually includes documentation to ease visa issuance, such as financial guarantees and expedited processing.
Cost and Processing Time
| Expense | Estimated Amount (USD) |
| Visa Application Fee | $40 – $90 |
| Tuition Fees (per year) | $3,000 – $6,500 |
| Living Costs (per month) | $500 – $1,000 |
| Health Insurance (required) | $60 – $100/month |
| Total Annual Estimate | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| Process Step | Timeline |
| Admission & CoA Issuance | 2–4 weeks |
| Visa Processing Time | 7–15 business days |
| Entire Application Process | 1–2 months total |
Top Jobs for International Students in South Korea
While on a D-2 Visa, students can work part-time with university permission.
| Job Type | Description |
| English Tutoring | Popular for fluent English speakers |
| Café or Restaurant Jobs | Serving, cleaning, or barista work |
| On-Campus Jobs | Library assistant, lab work, or office jobs |
| Translation/Content Work | For bilingual students |
| Tech/Internships | Available for students in STEM programs |
Living in South Korea as an International Student
| Factor | Experience |
| Accommodation | Dormitories or shared housing ($200–$500/mo) |
| Transport | Efficient metro and bus systems |
| Language | Basic Korean needed for daily life |
| Food & Lifestyle | Affordable meals; vibrant youth culture |
| Expat Communities | Student networks and international clubs |
South Korea offers excellent opportunities for international students to pursue their academic dreams, thanks to its high-quality education system, advanced research infrastructure, and vibrant cultural environment. With the South Korea Study Visa, students can access world-class institutions while benefiting from visa sponsorship programs that make the application process easier. Whether you’re interested in technology, business, or the humanities, South Korea presents numerous possibilities for personal and professional growth. Begin your application today and take the first step toward an exciting academic adventure in one of Asia’s most dynamic countries.
FAQs
1. Can I work while studying in South Korea with a student visa?
Yes, international students on an D-2 Study Visa can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic term, and up to 40 hours per week during breaks, as long as they get approval from their university and immigration.
2. Is there a scholarship option available for international students?
Yes, South Korea offers various scholarships for international students, including the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) and university-specific funding that can help with tuition and living expenses.
3. How long can I stay in South Korea on a study visa?
Typically, the D-2 Study Visa is valid for the duration of your program, which can range from 1 to 4 years, depending on your course of study. Extensions can be granted if needed, and you may also be eligible to apply for a post-study work visa.
4. Can I bring my family with me while studying in South Korea?
Yes, international students can bring their dependents (spouse and children) to South Korea, but they will need to apply for a D-2 dependent visa. It’s important to check with the Korean consulate for specific eligibility and requirements.
