Part-time work permission for D-2 and D-4 students

In Korea, D-2 (degree) and D-4 (Korean language) students can work part-time, but only with permission. This permission is called 시간제취업 허가 (part-time work permission). You must get it from immigration before your first day of work. Applying after you start is not allowed.

Who can apply

• D-2 students in associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral programs.
• D-4 Korean language trainees, generally only after about 6 months of stay in Korea.
• Students with good attendance and grades. Low attendance or poor grades can lead to refusal.
• Students whose school confirms the job. The international student advisor at your school checks this.

How many hours can you work?

There is a weekly limit on hours. The limit depends on your program (language, associate, bachelor’s or graduate), your year of study, your Korean level (TOPIK or KIIP), your grades and attendance, and your school’s status (for example, whether it is a government-certified school). Limits can also be different during vacations. These rules change often, so we don’t list numbers here. Check the latest HiKorea notice and ask your school’s international office before you agree on a schedule.

Documents and steps

• Application form (on HiKorea or at the immigration office)
• Passport and residence card (ARC)
• A copy of the employer’s business registration certificate
• A written labor contract with your hours, hourly wage and workplace address
• School confirmation from your international student advisor
• Attendance and grade records, if your school or immigration asks
• TOPIK or KIIP certificate, if you have one

1. 1

   Find a job

   Check that the job type is allowed for students and that the hours fit your limit.

2. 2

   Sign a written contract

   Get a labor contract that shows your hours, wage and workplace. Ask for a copy of the business registration too.

3. 3

   Get school confirmation

   Visit your international student advisor. They check your attendance and grades and confirm the job.

4. 4

   Apply

   Apply through HiKorea e-application or at your immigration office. Required documents can differ, so check the list first.

5. 5

   Wait for approval

   Do not work while you wait. You can check your application status on HiKorea.

6. 6

   Start work

   Start only after approval. Keep a copy of the permission and your contract.

Jobs you cannot take, and pay rules

• Adult entertainment businesses are not allowed.
• Some industries, such as construction and some manufacturing work, are restricted or allowed only under extra conditions.
• The list of allowed and restricted jobs can change. Check HiKorea or call the 1345 Immigration Contact Center before you accept a job.
• Minimum wage still applies to you. In 2026 it is ₩10,320 per hour, the same as for Korean workers.