Overview
The South Korean student visa system is strictly regulated by the Ministry of Justice. For degree programs (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD), you apply for a D-2 visa. For those coming purely for Korean language courses at a university language center, you apply for a D-4 visa.
1. Eligibility Criteria
Academic: A Certificate of Admission (CoA) issued by a university recognized by the Korean Ministry of Education.
Language Proficiency: * Korean Track: Usually TOPIK Level 3 or 4 (depending on the major).
English Track: Usually IELTS 5.5 - 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 71+.
Financial Stability: You must prove you can support yourself without working for at least the first six months.
2. South Korea Student Visa Document Checklist
• Passport: Original and a color copy of the bio-data page (valid for at least 6+ months).
• Passport Photos: 2 copies (3.5cm x 4.5cm) with a white background, taken within 6 months.
• Visa Application Form: Fully completed (often 5 pages), available from the Korean Embassy website.
• Certificate of Admission (CoA): The official document sent by your Korean university.
• Business Registration Certificate: A copy of the Korean university’s registration (provided by the school).
• Academic Transcripts & Diplomas: Must be Apostilled or verified by the Korean Embassy in your home country.
• Financial Proof: Bank statement showing a balance of approx. $10,000 to $20,000 USD (frozen for 1 month).
• Sponsorship Letter: If using a parent's bank account, include a birth certificate and a notarized affidavit of support.
• Tuberculosis (TB) Test Result: Required for citizens of high-risk countries (must be from a designated hospital).
• Study Plan: A detailed essay outlining your academic goals and timeline in Korea.
3. Post-Arrival Requirement (ARC)
The visa in your passport only allows you to enter. Within 90 days of landing, you must apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC) at the local Immigration Office.
Cost: ₩30,000 (approx. $22 USD).
Benefit: This card is your legal ID for opening bank accounts, getting a phone plan, and signing a housing lease.