South Korea Student Visa
Korean D-2/D-4 Visa: Required Documents and Interview Tips
Visa Overview
South Korea offers two main student visa categories: D-2 for degree programs and D-4-1 for language training. Applicants must first secure an acceptance letter from a Korean government-recognized institution before applying at a South Korean embassy or consulate in China. The visa review process is rigorous, requiring complete documentation and potentially involving a phone interview or in-person appointment.
Process
Admitted
Receive an official admission letter from a South Korean government-recognized institution
Prepare Materials
Prepare complete application materials as required by the embassy or consulate and obtain CHSI verification.
Schedule Submission
Schedule a submission appointment at the Korea Visa Application Center
Submit Application
Visit the visa application center at your scheduled appointment to submit documents and pay fees.
Pending Approval
Pending embassy/consulate approval; phone interview or in-person interview may be required.
Claim Visa
Claim your passport and visa after approval
Application Document Checklist
- 1Visa Application Form (attach 1 color photos with white background, size 3.5×4.5 cm)
- 2Original and copy of passport
- 3Copy of ID card
- 4Original Admission Letter
- 5Proof of Tuition Payment or Scholarship Award
- 6Graduation (Provisional) Certificate and Transcript
- 7Education Credential Verification Report (CHSI Verified)
- 8Proof of Financial Capability (Bank Deposit Certificate ≥ 10 CNY or Proof of Funding Guarantee)
- 9Health Checkup Certificate (Tuberculosis Screening at Designated Hospital)
- 10Confirmation of School Information for Study Abroad (D-2-1~8) / Language Training (D-4-1)
- 11Copy of household registration book
- 12Graduate schools often require a research proposal; some institutions also require a confirmation letter from a prospective supervisor.
Processing Time and Fees
Processing Time
Visa Fees
Renewal Rules
D-2/D-4 visas are issued based on course duration. Extensions must be processed within Korea or a new application submitted after departing the country before expiration.
Top Reasons for Visa Rejections
- The admission letter was issued by a non-accredited institution in South Korea.
- Insufficient proof of funding capability (below 10 thousand RMB)
- Missing or non-CHSI degree certification
- Health examination certificate issued by a non-designated hospital
- Errors in the visa application form or information inconsistent with your passport
- Missing School Information Confirmation
- Missing household registration or proof of kinship
FAQ
1What is the difference between D-2 and D-4 visas?
D-2 is a degree-seeking visa (Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD). D-4-1 is a language training visa. D-2 allows part-time work (up to 20 hours per week), while D-4 requires you to reside in the country for 6 months before applying for work permission.
2Can I work part-time?
You can apply for a work permit 6 months after entering on a D-2 visa, with a maximum of 20 hours per week. For D-4 visas, you may apply after 6 months, but with stricter limitations.
3How long is the visa valid for?
Issued based on course duration. Typically, D-2 covers 1-2 years, and D-4 covers 6 to 1 months. Renewal is required upon expiration.
4Can it be rejected?
Possible. Common reasons for visa denial include false documentation, insufficient funds, or an unreasonable study plan. After a denial, it is recommended to analyze the cause before reapplying.
Need help with your visa application?
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