Introduction
Thinking about studying in South Korea in 2025? 🇰🇷
You’ve probably heard about different student visa categories like D-2, D-4, and D-4-7, but figuring out which one is right for you can feel confusing.
This guide will make it super simple — a step-by-step breakdown of each South Korea student visa type, the application process, new updates in 2025, and what you should prepare as an international student (especially from Nepal or India).
South Korea Student Visa Types Explained
D-2 — Student Visa (Degree Programs)
Who it’s for: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, professional degrees at accredited universities.
You need:
- University admission letter
- Financial proof (per current 2025 guidance)
- Language: English-taught programs may accept IELTS/TOEFL/PTE; Korean-medium programs usually need TOPIK or equivalent
- Insurance, passport, photos, completed forms
Work rules (typical): Part-time on weekdays with limits (see above), often after initial permission and/or after 6 months of study, plus unlimited weekends/holidays with proper approval.
After graduation:
- Apply for job-seeker stay (length depends on the current rule; up to 3 years for eligible fields is being rolled out)
- Convert to a work visa (E-series) or long-term residency when you meet requirements
D-4 — General Trainee & Language Training
Who it’s for:
- D-4-1: Korean language training at universities/language institutes
- Other D-4 sub-types: skills/training courses at accredited schools/centers
Good for: Students who want to learn Korean first, then move to a degree later.
Work rules (typical): Part-time is possible with permissions and usually after a set study period; weekday hour limits apply; weekends/holidays often more flexible.
Pathway: Many students upgrade from D-4 to D-2 once they enter a degree program.
D-4-7 — General Trainee
Who it’s for: Structured internships or practical training at approved companies/organizations in Korea.
Length: Often 6–12 months (can vary).
Important: This is not a full work visa; it’s for training, with restrictions on job type and hours.
Pathway: If you receive a proper job offer in a qualifying role and meet salary/qualification rules, you may switch to a work visa (e.g., E-7).
Which visa should I choose?
- Want a degree (Bachelor/Master/PhD)? → D-2
- Want to learn Korean first, then do a degree? → D-4 (then switch to D-2)
- Got a structured internship/training offer in Korea? → D-4-7
Step-by-Step From Nepal
1) Pick your pathway
- Degree (D-2): shortlisting universities, intake, language
- Language first (D-4): pick a reputable institute with clear schedule
- Internship (D-4-7): confirm training plan and host company approval
2) Prepare documents (keep names/dates identical)
- Application form, passport, biometric photos
- Admission/training letter
- Academic certificates + transcripts
- Language proof (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or TOPIK/Korean level)
- Financial proof: follow current 2025 amount on the official checklist
- Health/travel insurance
- Accommodation plan (booking or letter)
- Any extra items requested by your specific visa category
3) Book your visa appointment (Embassy/authorized center)
- Apply early (2–3 months before course start is safe; earlier for peak intakes)
- Organise your file exactly in the checklist order
- Be ready to explain your study plan, finances, and career path
4) Arrive & register
- Get your Alien Registration Card (ARC) within the deadline
- Maintain attendance and good academic standing
- Apply for part-time work permission if required by your school/immigration office
5) After your course
- Use the job-seeker stay (length per current rule; some fields up to 3 years)
- Convert to a work visa when you meet job/qualification/salary criteria
- Build towards long-term residency with consistent legal stay and employment
2025 Cost Reality (rough guide)
- Tuition: language programs often lower; degree tuition varies by major and university
- Living: plan around KRW 800,000–1,200,000/month outside luxury living (≈ USD 600–900), higher in central Seoul
- Insurance, visa, setup: keep a buffer for deposits, transport, phone, first month rent
Money tip: Keep a little extra above the finance requirement to cover fees/exchange rate changes.
Common Mistakes (and how to avoid them)
- Applying late for peak intakes → Book early
- Finance below requirement → Follow the current 2025 amount on your checklist
- No part-time permission → Always get approval via your school/office
- Weak SOP → Clearly explain study goals, career plan, and why Korea
- Ignoring attendance → Attendance affects visa extensions and work permissions
FAQs
1) Can I work part-time on D-2 or D-4?
Yes, but with limits and permissions. Undergrad weekday hours are commonly around 25/week, postgrad 35/week, weekends/holidays more flexible.
2) Is Korean language required for English-taught degrees?
Not always, but basic TOPIK helps for part-time jobs and full-time roles later.
3) What is D-4-7 exactly?
A trainee/intern visa category for structured on-the-job training at approved hosts. Not a full work visa.
4) How long can I stay after graduation?
A longer job-seeking period is being implemented for eligible fields (up to 3 years in some cases). Check the rule in force when you graduate.
5) Can I bring dependents on a student visa?
Student categories are limited for dependents. Many students invite family later after moving to a work visa.
6) What’s the finance amount in 2025?
It’s lower than before, but you must follow the exact figure on your current embassy checklist/provider page at the time you apply.
7) Can I switch from D-4 to D-2?
Yes—once you’re admitted to a degree program.
8) What visa comes after D-2 for work?
Often an E-series work visa (e.g., E-7) if your job and salary qualify.
9) Are scholarships available?
Yes—GKS and many university scholarships. Apply early.
10) Is South Korea safe for students?
Yes, Korea consistently ranks as safe and student-friendly with great transport and modern campuses.
Final Motivation
“Plan smart, apply early, and keep everything clean and consistent.” Korea in 2025 gives real opportunities—affordable study routes, clear work rules, and growing post-study options. Your next step is closer than you think.
Call to Action — ACCEL Education & Migration
Visit us near Shankar Dev Campus, Putalisadak Kathmandu
📞 01-5919110
We’ll help you choose the right visa (D-2, D-4 or D-4-7), prepare documents, and avoid common mistakes—step by step.
