For international students in Korea, the most relevant visas are D-2, D-4, and D-10, with E-7 (employment) and F-2 (residency) becoming important for those planning long-term settlement.
Most students begin their journey on a D-2 or D-4 visa, transition to a D-10 job-seeking visa after graduation, and eventually qualify for an F-2 residency visa. This pathway reflects the typical progression from study to work and long-term residence in Korea.
The Most Common Visa Questions
Before applying, students often ask:
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What is the difference between the D-2 and D-4 visas?
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How do D-2-2, D-2-3, D-2-4, and D-2-6 differ?
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What documents are required to obtain a student visa?
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How long does the application process take?
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How long does each visa remain valid?
K-campus addresses these questions while focusing on D-2, D-4, D-10, E-7, and F-2 visas and their key requirements.
Understanding D-Type Visas
Korea offers 10 main D-type visas (D-1 to D-10). Among them, D-2, D-4, and D-10 are the most relevant for international students.
D-2 Visa — Degree-Seeking and Exchange Students
The D-2 visa is the standard student visa for those enrolled in Korean universities, including both full-time degree students and exchange students.
Key subcategories include:
Further details can be found in “Your Guide to the D-2 Visa.”
D-4 Visa — Language and Training Programs
The D-4 visa is most commonly issued to students attending Korean language institutes affiliated with universities. It also applies to vocational trainees, high school students, and private institution trainees.
Main subcategories include:
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D-4-1: Korean language programs
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D-4-2: Vocational training
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D-4-7: General training programs
More information is available in “Your Guide to the D-4 Visa.”
Other D-Type Visas
Some lesser-known D-type visas include:
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D-1: Academic, artistic, or cultural nonprofit activities (e.g., taekwondo, calligraphy, royal cuisine).
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D-5: Journalism and media professionals.
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D-6: Religious and social welfare workers.
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D-7: Intra-company transferees.
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D-8: Foreign investors and startup founders.
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D-9: International trade professionals.
D-10 Visa — Job-Seeking Visa
The D-10 visa allows international graduates to remain in Korea while searching for employment.
Its main categories include:
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D-10-1: General job seekers
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D-10-2: Startup founders or preparation stage
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D-10-3: High-tech internship participants
The D-10 visa is issued for six months at a time and can be extended for up to three years in total.
Employment and Residency Visas
E-7 Visa — Skilled Employment
The E-7 visa, officially titled “Foreign National of Special Ability,” is granted to professionals invited by Korean organizations to work in designated fields approved by the Ministry of Justice.
Major categories include:
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E-7-1: Professionals
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E-7-2: Semi-professionals
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E-7-3: General workers
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E-7-4: Skilled workers (points-based system)
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E-7-S: High-income professionals in advanced technology fields
For more information, see “Your Guide to the E-7 Visa.”
F-2 Visa — Residency in Korea
The F-type visa represents residency in Korea, with F-2 being the most common for foreign professionals. There are seven subcategories, with F-2-7 standing out as the only residency visa based on a points system.
Holding an F-2 visa provides greater job flexibility and long-term stability in Korea.
