D-10 Job Seeker Visa — How to Apply (2026 Guide)
Quick Answer — 30-Second Summary
The D-10 (Job Seeker) visa is for foreign graduates and skilled professionals searching for employment in Korea. It bridges student/temporary status and a long-term work visa (E-7).
- Validity: 6 months per issuance, 2 years maximum total
- Apply at: HiKorea online portal or your local Immigration Office
- Fee: KRW 60,000 (single entry) / KRW 90,000 (multiple entry)
- Conversion: To E-7 once you have a job offer
Eligibility — Points-Based System
You need at least 60 points in the Korean immigration points system. Points are awarded across these categories:
| Category | Maximum Points | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Age (under 35) | 25 | Younger applicants score higher |
| Education | 35 | PhD: 35, Master’s: 30, Bachelor’s: 20 |
| Korean Language (TOPIK) | 20 | Level 6: 20, Level 4: 10, Level 2: 5 |
| Korean Residency History | 10 | Each year of D-2 study counts |
| Specialization Field | 10 | STEM, healthcare, IT preferred |
Tip: Most D-2 graduates from Korean universities easily exceed 60 points without extra effort.
Required Documents
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Application form (download from HiKorea)
- Color photo (3.5cm × 4.5cm)
- Degree certificate (apostilled if from outside Korea)
- Academic transcript
- Statement of Activity Plan (job search plan)
- Proof of finances (KRW 20+ million in bank balance)
- Application fee receipt
Application Steps
1. Prepare Documents
Gather all required documents. Foreign-issued documents need apostille or Korean consulate authentication.
2. Submit at HiKorea or Immigration Office
- Online (HiKorea): Most convenient, but identity verification (joint certificate or i-PIN) required
- In-person: Bring documents to your local Immigration Office (book appointment in advance)
3. Wait for Processing
Standard processing takes 2–4 weeks. Status is updated on HiKorea.
4. Issue Sticker / Card
Once approved, your visa sticker is placed in your passport, and you receive an Alien Registration Card (ARC) within 30 days.
Conversion to E-7 (Work Visa)
When you secure a job offer:
- Employer applies for E-7 (Special Activity) visa change
- Required from employer: employment contract, business registration, financial statements
- Required from you: D-10 sticker, ARC, degree certificate
- Processing: 2–4 weeks at the Immigration Office
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Applying without 60 points → automatic rejection
- ❌ Foreign degree without apostille → resubmit with proper authentication
- ❌ Insufficient bank balance → KRW 20M minimum required
- ❌ Working full-time without permit → visa cancellation risk
This guide is based on 2026 May Korean immigration policy. Visa rules and fees change occasionally — verify with HiKorea before applying.
자주 묻는 질문
QWho is eligible for the D-10 visa?
Foreign graduates of Korean universities (any degree) and overseas Bachelor's degree holders who meet the points-based threshold. Points are awarded for age, education, Korean proficiency (TOPIK), and prior Korean residency.
QCan I work part-time on a D-10 visa?
Yes, but only after obtaining 'Permission to Engage in Activities Other Than the Status of Stay' from the immigration office. Part-time work is limited to 20 hours per week during job search.
QHow do I convert D-10 to a work visa (E-7)?
Once you receive a job offer, your employer applies for an E-7 (Special Activity) visa change at the immigration office. Required: employment contract, employer's business registration, your degree certificate, and the standard E-7 documents.
QWhat if I cannot find a job within 6 months?
You can extend the D-10 in 6-month increments up to a maximum total stay of 2 years. Each extension requires updated job-search activity logs and proof of ongoing applications or interviews.
출처 및 인용
- [1]
D-10 visa eligibility and points-based system
- [2]
Application fees and procedures
- [3]
Maximum stay and extension rules