Part-time work while studying — get permission first

Students on Student (D-2) or language training (D-4) status must first get permission for activities outside their status from the immigration office before working part-time. Working without permission can lead to imprisonment of up to 3 years or a fine of up to KRW 30 million, and removal from Korea.

Allowed hours depend on your program, year and whether you meet the Korean standard. The Korean standard is TOPIK level 3 for associate degree students (any year) and bachelor's students in years 1–2, and TOPIK level 4 for bachelor's students in years 3–4 and graduate students, or equivalents.

If you meet the Korean standard, you may work up to 25 hours a week during the semester as an associate or bachelor's student and 30 hours as a master's or doctoral student, with no hour limit on weekends and during vacations. If you also study at a certified university or have excellent grades or Korean skills, the semester limit is 30 hours (35 for master's and doctoral students), and students in 'trained technical talent' departments designated by the Ministry of Justice may work up to 35 hours.

If you do not meet the Korean standard, the limit is 10 hours a week for associate and bachelor's students and 15 hours for master's and doctoral students, including weekends and vacations.

Special-type work such as parcel delivery or riders, dispatch or subcontracted work, and professional (E-1 to E-7) activities are not permitted (assistant or intern work in professional fields is allowed as an exception). Manufacturing jobs are allowed with Korean level 4 or higher.

Language students (D-4-1, D-4-7) can apply only after 6 months from the date the status was granted (for visa holders, the date of entry). Check the official guidance for language students' weekly hours and how preferential treatment is judged.

Changes to the part-time work system are expected to be announced. Check the latest notices before you apply.