A student visa is a legal document that allows someone to enter and stay in a foreign country to study. The visa lets them live in the country for the duration of their studies, and it often includes certain conditions, such as restrictions on work. A student visa is essential for anyone who wants to study abroad legally.
Obtaining a student visa ensures compliance with local regulations and provides the legal framework necessary for pursuing higher education abroad, ultimately facilitating a successful and rewarding academic experience.
Why is a student visa necessary for studying in South Korea?
A student visa is an official document issued by the South Korean government that allows foreign nationals to enter and stay in the country to study. This visa is essential for international students who wish to pursue education at South Korean institutions, whether for language courses, undergraduate degrees, graduate programs, or other academic pursuits.
Without a valid student visa for South Korea, foreign students cannot legally enroll in South Korean schools or universities, nor can they remain in the country for extended periods to complete their studies. The student visa for Korea not only grants permission to study but also provides certain rights and responsibilities, ensuring that international students can fully engage in their academic experiences while complying with South Korean immigration rules and laws.
Types of student visas for South Korea
Understanding the different types of student visas for Korea is essential for international students. Each visa type caters to various study programs, from language courses to university degrees. Here are the types of visas:
D-2 Visa
The D-2 student visa for South Korea is designed for international students who plan to study at a Korean university or educational institution. To qualify, you need to be accepted into a recognized program and demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay. It is valid for according to the course taken and should be renewed accordingly.
The visa is typically issued for the duration of your study program, with an extension possible if needed. While on a D-2 visa for Korea, you are generally allowed to work part-time, though there are restrictions on the number of hours and types of work. It is also advisable to have health insurance and to familiarize yourself with Korean culture and language to ease your transition. For any extensions or status changes, you should contact your local immigration office in Korea.
D-4 Visa
The D-4 visa for South Korea is intended for international students who want to study at Korean language schools or other non-degree programs. To be eligible for this visa, you must be accepted into a Korean language institution or a non-degree program and prove that you have enough financial resources to support yourself during your stay. It is valid for 6 months to 1 year according to the course taken and should be renewed accordingly.
The D-4 visa for South Korea is typically granted for your language program or non-degree course, and it can be extended if your studies take longer. While holding a D-4 visa, you are not allowed to work part-time.
The conversion of D-4 visa to D-2 visa
To convert from a D-4 visa to a D-2 visa in South Korea, you’ll need to switch from a Korean language school or non-degree-seeking student to a studying program degree at a university. First, make sure you’re eligible for the D-2 visa by being accepted into a new institution and having enough financial support.
Gather the required documents, including your new acceptance letter and proof of finances. Then, visit the local immigration office in South Korea to submit your application for a visa. The office will review your paperwork and decide whether to approve the switch. If approved, you’ll receive the D-2 visa, allowing you to stay in Korea for your program degree studies. Make sure to stay compliant with visa regulations while your application is processed, and consider seeking advice from the immigration office for specific details.
South Korea 2025 Update: The Latest Student Visa Application Process Update
The Korean Embassy in Nepal announced a special service for the consular verification of academic documents and student visa applications for the 2025 Spring Semester (March Intake). Here is a simplified summary:
1. Consular Verification of Academic Documents
- Universities can submit up to 50 students’s applications for document verification at once.
- The application period is from October 16 to October 29, 2024.
- Only one Nepali representative is allowed to handle the submission at the embassy.
- Universities must submit a list of students and required information by email.
2. Student Visa Applications
- Universities can submit up to 50 student visa applications in bulk from December 2 to December 12, 2024.
- Similar to document verification, only one Nepali representative can handle the submission at the embassy.
- A list of students applying for visas must be emailed during the application period.
3. Fall 2025 Student Visa Review (September Intake)
- Credit requirements for Nepali students will be stricter.
- Proof of Korean language proficiency (like TOPIK or Sejong Institute certificates) will be required.
If a university has more than 50 Nepali students, those not included in the batch submission must book individual appointment dates for consular verification and visa applications. Batch submissions are only allowed once per semester, and issues during the process may lead to discontinuation of the service.
How to apply for a South Korea student visa?
- Select your program and school: Choose an accredited (licensed) South Korean educational institution and a suitable program. Popular enrollment periods are typically in March and September.
- Obtain admission: Apply to your chosen school and secure an official letter of acceptance.
- Gather required documents: Collect necessary paperwork, which may include your passports, acceptance letter, proof of financial support, and academic records.
- Submit visa application: Complete the appropriate visa application form (usually D-2 for degree-seeking students) and submit it to the nearest South Korean embassy or consulate along with your supporting documents.
- Pay the visa fee: Submit the required visa application fee, which can vary based on your nationality and the specific visa type.
- Biometrics and Interview: If required, provide biometric information and attend an in-person interview at the embassy or consulate.
- Await decision: Allow time for your application to be processed. The duration can vary depending on the embassy’s workload and your specific case.
- Receive a visa: If approved, collect your visa from the embassy or consulate.
- Register with immigration: Upon arrival in South Korea, register with the local immigration office within 90 days to obtain your Alien Registration Card (ARC).
Required Documents for Student Visa Application
Various documents and procedures are necessary during the student visa application. Here is the list of the required documents:
- Application form
- Passport, one copy of the passport ID page (the page with your photo)
- Passport-size photo (3.5×4.5cm with white background; must be taken within the past 6 months)
- If applying for a D- 2 visa (English track), one must have an IELTS certificate scoring 5.5
- Certificate of admission (issued by the International Education Team at the university)
- Personal ID in residing country (Nation ID or Citizenship Card)
- Tuberculosis Test Certificate, If the applicants have never submitted it after 2016.3.2, it is mandatory for them to resubmit it.
- SOP (statement of purpose), a personal statement that applicants can use to convince visa officers or admissions committees of their suitability for a visa or program
- No Objection Letter (NOC) provided by the NOC council or individual stating no objection to the covenants mentioned in the certificate.
- Additional documents: Final Academic Credentials (choose one from the following)
- Apostile/confirmation from a Korean embassy or consulate located in the country where the applicant’s final education was complete.
- Financial statement: $20,000 (USD) including tuition fee (with receipt), and scholarship (if applicable).
- Proof of residency:
- Living on-campus: Confirmation of Residence/Apartment’ from CJ I-House office with signature and dormitory payment receipt.
- Living off-campus: Submit a copy of the rental contract; if the contract is not under the applicant’s name, one is required to submit a copy of the accommodation provider’s ID card and ‘Confirmation of Residence/Apartment.
Note: It is advised that students contact the Korean embassy or consulate in their home country before applying for the visa to check if there is any additional document required for the application.
Alien Registration Card (ARC)
Alien Registration Card (ARC) is an identification card for international students studying in Korea. It is illegal to take a degree-seeking program without ARC, regardless of a valid period of student visa (D-2). The students should apply for ARC as soon as they arrive in Korea with a student visa (D-2) before the beginning of the semester. Required Documents for ARC Application:
- Application form
- Passport and one copy of the passport ID page
- Proof of residency
- Application fee: 30,000 KRW (in cash)
South Korea Student Visa Process Time
The visa process for a student visa from Nepal to South Korea can take at least 21 working days, according to the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nepal. The process may be delayed if the applicant doesn’t provide all the necessary documents or information. Peak seasons, which can include summer and winter, may also cause longer processing times as it has higher intakes.
Conclusion
Obtaining a student visa for South Korea provides access to world-class education, rich cultural experiences, and exciting career opportunities. Whether seeking personal growth or professional advancement, the benefits of studying in South Korea are substantial and enduring.
A One Global Consultants stands out as a primary choice for international students studying abroad. A One Global has helped thousands of students achieve their higher education goals by helping them study career-focused degrees in various universities and colleges across South Korea.
With expert guidance and support, students can embark on a transformative educational journey in this vibrant Asian nation.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ's)
For applying for a student visa for South Korea, A One Global Consultants should be your primary choice for action.
Student visas like D-2 and D-4 are available for South Korea.
- Being accepted at a recognized institution
- Prove that you have sufficient funds
- Having a valid passport
- Passing medical examination
- Meeting other countries’ specific requirements
One should apply for visas before the beginning of the semester.
The whole-year fee may cost 10 to 12 lakhs, while a semester fee could be up to 6 lakh initially.
Yes, you will need to take a language test before applying for visas.
Visa is valid for 6 months to 1 year according to the course taken and should be/can be renewed accordingly.
One should apply for an ARC (Alien Registration Card) before the beginning of the semester.
