You can legally do part‑time with a D‑2 visa
D‑2 holders can work up to 20 hrs/week during semesters, unlimited in vacation. This right is clearly in the immigration law.
But you must get a 'part‑time work permit' first. Working without it or over 20 hrs may cause visa extension denial. Check your university’s international office for how to apply.
Extension may be denied
Violation can hurt future E‑7 application
Working in non‑permitted jobs is also a violation
D‑2 part‑time time limits at a glance
Rules differ in semester vs vacation. Use vacation time wisely.
| category | Max weekly time | Need permission? | Prohibited business examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| in the semester | 20 hours | essential | nightlife venues, gambling business |
| on vacation | No limit | essential | nightlife venues, gambling business |
| Master/PhD program | 30 hrs/week (research purpose) | essential | nightlife venues, gambling business |
Seoul '30 Days in Seoul' adaptation class: new job lectures in 2026
'30 Days in Seoul' is a free program for foreign students currently at Seoul universities or within 2 years after graduation. From 2026 batch 3, two job‑related lectures were added.
New AI job‑search lecture and basic labor‑law lecture. Learn about unpaid wages, contracts, 4 insurances, etc., for free.
Target: 75 students currently at Seoul universities or job‑seekers within 2 years after graduation
Application period: 2026 Apr 1 – Apr 14
Completion benefits: certificate from Seoul mayor + up to 4 hrs recognized in social integration program
Contact: 02-2133-5077
4 steps to switch from D‑2 to E‑7 work visa
You can't apply for E‑7 right after graduation. You must get D‑10 job‑search visa first. Start preparing 30 days before D‑2 expires.
D‑10 is up to 1 year. If you don't secure a job within that, you must leave.
Step 1: Start job activities while on D‑2
Begin job prep before graduation. Internships or part‑time within 20 hrs/week build experience for E‑7 review. Prepare resume in Korean.
Step 2: Switch to D‑10 after graduation
Apply for D‑10 about 30 days before D‑2 expires. You can apply online at hikorea.go.kr or at immigration office. D‑10 allows up to 1 year stay.
Step 3: Apply for E‑7 after job is secured
After signing employment contract, apply for E‑7. Required docs: passport, standard contract, business registration, graduation certificate, transcript, criminal record.
Step 4: Start work after E‑7 is issued
E‑7 takes about 2–4 weeks. Once approved, you can start work right away. Update alien registration card within 14 days of entry.
Which visa route fits my situation now?
Answer the questions and we'll suggest the next step.
Q&A on common labor issues for foreign students
30 Days in Seoul class application steps (deadline Apr 14)
Application is easy. Follow the steps below. You’ll get a certificate from the Seoul mayor upon completion.
Step 1: Check eligibility
You must be a foreign student currently at a Seoul university or within 2 years after graduation, and want to work.
Step 2: Fill online form
Go to Seoul welfare policy site (news.seoul.go.kr) to fill the form. Application period: 2026 Apr 1 – Apr 14.
Step 3: Submit documents
Prepare copy of passport, enrollment or graduation certificate, alien registration card. Contact: 02-2133-5077
Step 4: Participate and complete
Intensive program in May–June, 6 sessions total. Completion gives a certificate from the Seoul mayor and up to 4 hrs counted in social integration program.
Free job support resources for my situation
What’s my current situation?
Apply to Seoul '30 Days in Seoul' class (deadline Apr 14).
Get part‑time work permit from university international office and start internship.
Improving Korean to TOPIK 3+ helps job prospects.
Switch to D‑10 before D‑2 expires
Use JobKorea Global, Worknet foreign hiring portal
Get free job counseling at Sinchon Seoul Global Student Support Center (opens April).
Check E‑7 required documents in advance
Get a free first consult from a visa specialist
You can call MOJ Immigration Policy Bureau (1345)
Gather work records and proof of wage promises (texts, KakaoTalk, etc.) first
Call Labor Ministry 1350 or report at minwon.moel.go.kr
You can report without affecting your D‑2 visa
D‑2 → E‑7 switch, feeling stuck alone?
Get a free first consultation at Seoul's immigration office
📞 02-2133-5077