D-2 Student (Degree Programme)
International students enrolled in a degree programme at a Korean university or graduate school.
The D-2 Student (Degree Programme) is a South Korean study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry)) and processing time (~2-4 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the D-2 Student (Degree Programme) is for
International students enrolled in a degree programme at a Korean university or graduate school.
Graduates can move to D-10 job-seeking, E-7 work, and onward to F-2/F-5.
D-2 Student (Degree Programme) - eligibility criteria
- Admission to a recognised Korean university or graduate school
- Proof of sufficient funds / tuition and living costs
- Academic records and certificates
- Health insurance coverage
D-2 Student (Degree Programme) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the D-2 Student (Degree Programme) (South Korea) is ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry), with an indicative processing time of ~2-4 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at HiKorea (Korea Immigration).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside Korea (consulate) after admission, or change of status inside Korea |
| Length of stay | Duration of the course (typically renewed yearly) |
| Work rights | Part-time work allowed with prior permission |
| Study rights | Full-time degree study at the host institution |
| Government fee | ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry) |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks |
| Route to PR | Graduates can move to D-10 job-seeking, E-7 work, and onward to F-2/F-5. |
Pathway & next steps
Graduates can move to D-10 job-seeking, E-7 work, and onward to F-2/F-5.
Many applicants also compare D-4 · D-4 General Training / Language Study, D-10 · D-10 Job Seeker / Job-Seeking, F-2-7 · F-2-7 Points-Based Residence. Run a free VisaChief check to see which South Korean route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common D-2 Student (Degree Programme) pitfalls we fix
D-2 Student (Degree Programme) - frequently asked questions
How much does the D-2 Student (Degree Programme) cost?
The D-2 Student (Degree Programme) government fee is ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at HiKorea (Korea Immigration) before applying.
How long does the D-2 Student (Degree Programme) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-4 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the D-2 Student (Degree Programme) lead to permanent residence?
Graduates can move to D-10 job-seeking, E-7 work, and onward to F-2/F-5.
Can I work on the D-2 Student (Degree Programme)?
Work rights: Part-time work allowed with prior permission.
Who can apply for the D-2 Student (Degree Programme)?
International students enrolled in a degree programme at a Korean university or graduate school.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official South Korea government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- HiKorea (Korea Immigration) - official South Korea immigration authority