D-2 vs D-10: which South Korean visa is right for you?
The D-2 student visa is for degree study; the D-10 job-seeker visa lets graduates and skilled people stay in Korea to look for work or prepare to start a business.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | D-2 Student (Degree Programme) (D-2) | D-10 Job Seeker / Job-Seeking (D-10) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | International students enrolled in a degree programme at a Korean university or graduate school. | Graduates and skilled people seeking professional employment or preparing a startup in Korea. |
| Government cost | ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry) | ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry) |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks | ~2-4 weeks |
| Length of stay | Duration of the course (typically renewed yearly) | Up to 6 months at a time (max ~2 years total) |
| Where to apply | Outside Korea (consulate) after admission, or change of status inside Korea | Inside Korea (change of status) or at a consulate |
| Work rights | Part-time work allowed with prior permission | Internships and job-search activities; limited paid work with permission |
| Points-tested | No | Yes |
| Pathway to PR | Graduates can move to D-10 job-seeking, E-7 work, and onward to F-2/F-5. | Designed as a bridge to E-7 work and the technology startup (D-8-4) route. |
Which is right for you?
D-2 Student (Degree Programme) (D-2)
International students enrolled in a degree programme at a Korean university or graduate school.
Full D-2 guide →D-10 Job Seeker / Job-Seeking (D-10)
Graduates and skilled people seeking professional employment or preparing a startup in Korea.
Full D-10 guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, D-2 or D-10?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, D-2 Student (Degree Programme) (D-2) is the lowest at ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, D-2 or D-10?
Indicatively D-2 Student (Degree Programme) (D-2) is the quickest at ~2-4 weeks. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between D-2 and D-10?
D-2 Student (Degree Programme) (D-2) is for international students enrolled in a degree programme at a Korean university or graduate school. D-10 Job Seeker / Job-Seeking (D-10) is for graduates and skilled people seeking professional employment or preparing a startup in Korea.