South Korea student visa guide
South Korea issues the D-2 student visa for degree study, applied for at the Korean Embassy after admission, with proof of funds and a Korean or English language qualification at its core.
The D-2 is the dedicated visa for students enrolling in degree programmes at Korean universities, applied for at the Korean Embassy or Consulate once you receive a certificate of admission. It is one of the faster routes in the region, and after arrival you register for an Alien Registration Card to complete your residence formalities.
You must show financial capacity of around 10,000 US dollars, or provide a sponsor letter with supporting documents, to demonstrate you can fund your studies. Language requirements are typically TOPIK Level 3 and above for Korean-taught courses or IELTS 5.5 and above for the growing range of English-taught programmes. Your admission, academic records, and bank evidence make up the rest of the file.
Admission certificate and financial proof
The university issues a certificate of admission after you are accepted, and this anchors your D-2 application. You then assemble bank statements showing around 10,000 US dollars, or a sponsor letter accompanied by the sponsor financial documents, along with your academic transcripts and passport. Consistency between the funds, your programme, and your records is important.
We review your admission and financial documents free of charge before you submit to the consulate.
Processing, language, and post-study options
The D-2 visa is commonly processed within two to four weeks, which suits students working to admission deadlines, though you should still apply promptly. Match your language proof to your course, whether TOPIK Level 3 and above or IELTS 5.5 and above. After graduation you can apply for the D-10 job-seeker visa, valid for six to twelve months, to look for work.
Refusals usually arise from insufficient funds, an unclear study purpose, or documents that do not align, so prepare your evidence carefully.
Visa facts at a glance
GKS applications via Korean Embassy in home country (deadline usually September). University direct applications open September–November.
| Visa type | D-2 Student Visa |
| Issuing authority | Korean Embassy / Consulate |
| Processing time | 2–4 weeks |
| Financial proof | USD 10,000 or sponsor letter |
| Language requirement | TOPIK Level 3+ or IELTS 5.5+ (English programmes) |
| Post-study work | D-10 Job-seeker visa for 6–12 months after graduation |
Visa application steps
- 1
Receive your admission letter
Apply to a South Korea university and obtain your acceptance — we help you choose programmes and apply.
- 2
Prepare financial proof
Arrange evidence of USD 10,000 or sponsor letter as required by the Korean Embassy / Consulate.
- 3
Gather documents
Passport, admission letter, language certificate, photos and the visa application form.
- 4
Submit & attend appointment
Submit your D-2 Student Visa application and attend any interview. Processing takes about 2–4 weeks.