Studying in South Korea is not only an educational journey but also an opportunity for international students to gain work experience and earn additional income to help cover their living expenses. However, not every student is permitted to work immediately upon arrival in the country.
Under South Korean immigration regulations, international students holding D-2 or D-4 visas generally must obtain permission for part-time employment (시간제취업허가) before starting a job. Working without the required permission may result in penalties, visa-related consequences, or deportation.
This visa category applies to eligible students enrolled in programs such as:
D-2 visa holders may apply for part-time work permission after enrollment, provided they meet the relevant requirements, including:
Permission is not automatic. Students should confirm their eligibility with their university’s international student office before accepting a job.
For students holding a D-4-1 visa for Korean-language training:
The exact eligibility conditions should be confirmed with the university and the immigration authority.
The number of hours an international student may work depends on several factors, including:
The permitted working hours for international students depend on their visa type, academic program, Korean language proficiency, academic performance, and eligibility for part-time work permission.
| Visa Type / Program | Eligibility | Korean Language Proficiency (Reference) | Weekdays | Weekends / Vacation Periods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D-4-1 – Korean Language Training | After 6 months | TOPIK Level 2 or equivalent | 10 hours/week | 10 hours/week |
| D-4-1 – Korean Language Training | After 6 months | Meets the requirements for a higher working-hour allowance | 20 hours/week | 25 hours/week |
| D-2 – Associate Degree | Once eligible | TOPIK Level 3 or equivalent | 10 hours/week | 10 hours/week |
| D-2 – Associate Degree | Once eligible | Meets the requirements for a higher working-hour allowance | 25 hours/week | No limit under the referenced guidance |
| D-2 – Undergraduate (Years 1–2) | Once eligible | Depends on the applicable requirements | 10–25 hours/week | Depends on the applicable requirements |
| D-2 – Undergraduate (Years 3–4) | Once eligible | TOPIK Level 4 or equivalent | 10–25 hours/week | Depends on the applicable requirements |
| D-2 – Master’s / Doctoral Degree | Once eligible | Depends on the applicable requirements | 15–30 hours/week | Depends on the applicable requirements |
The figures above are for reference only. They should not be interpreted as guaranteed working-hour allowances for every international student.
Eligibility and permitted hours may vary according to the student’s visa category, degree level, Korean language proficiency, academic performance, university status, and applicable immigration rules.
International students must obtain the required part-time work permission before starting employment.
Students should confirm their individual eligibility and permitted working hours with their university’s international office or the Korean Immigration Service before accepting a job.
South Korea’s statutory minimum wage for 2026 is KRW 10,320 per hour, an increase of KRW 290 from the 2025 rate.
This is equivalent to approximately VND 180,000 per hour, depending on the exchange rate.
According to South Korean immigration guidance, international students are generally permitted to undertake eligible part-time work, typically involving simple tasks commonly performed by students, provided they obtain the required permission and comply with the applicable conditions.
Depending on the student’s eligibility and the scope of the approved permission, examples may include:
International students should exercise particular caution with the following types of work:
Certain manufacturing positions may be considered under specific exceptions, depending on the applicable rules and the student’s qualifications. Korean-language proficiency alone does not automatically authorize employment in a restricted sector.
Students should verify the permitted job category with their university and the immigration authority before accepting an offer.
The documents commonly required may include:
Additional documents may be required depending on the student’s visa category, university, and employment circumstances.
Students may be able to apply online through Hi Korea or submit an application through the competent immigration office, depending on the available application procedure.
Before applying, students should consult their university’s international student office to confirm the current document checklist and submission method.
International students should carefully follow South Korea’s part-time employment regulations to avoid jeopardizing their immigration status and studies.
Students who work without the required permission, exceed their authorized working hours, or work outside the approved scope may face penalties depending on the circumstances and severity of the violation.
Under South Korea’s Immigration Act, unauthorized activities outside the permitted status of stay may result in imprisonment for up to three years or a fine of up to KRW 30 million under the applicable legal provisions. Students may also face additional immigration measures, which can include recommendations to depart or deportation in relevant cases. The actual consequences depend on the specific violation and the applicable law.
Students should not rely on informal estimates of fines or assume that a first violation will result only in a warning. To minimize risks, they should:
South Korea’s international student policies seek to balance educational objectives with opportunities for students to gain practical experience. At the same time, immigration authorities regulate part-time employment to ensure that students maintain their primary focus on studying and comply with their visa conditions.
For the latest requirements, students should consult official government guidance and their university’s international student office rather than relying solely on information shared online.
