Changing from D-2 to D-10 after graduation

Want to look for a job in Korea after you graduate? Here is when to apply for D-10, the documents you usually need, and what changes after you switch.

Updated Oct 21, 2026As of Oct 20266 min read

After you graduate from a Korean university, you can change your status from D-2 (student) to D-10 (job seeker) if you want to look for a job in Korea. This is a change of status (체류자격 변경), so you must apply before your D-2 period of stay ends.

Timing: apply after your graduation is confirmed and before your D-2 expires. Do not wait until the last week. Offices can be busy, and you may be asked for extra documents.

Do you need the points test?

Many D-10 applicants must pass a points test. If you graduated from a Korean university, you usually do not need it. Rules can change, so check the HiKorea guide for your case.

Documents usually needed

Application form
Passport and ARC
One photo
Fee (check the current fee on HiKorea)
Graduation certificate or degree certificate
Job-search activity plan
Proof of residence
Sometimes proof of funds
Check the HiKorea checklist for your case. Some cases can be applied for online. Others need a visit with a reservation.

D-2 and D-10 compared

Item	D-2 (student)	D-10 (job seeker)
Main purpose	Studying at a school	Looking for a job
Part-time work	Possible with permission. Hour limits apply.	You need a new permission after the change. Your D-2 permission does not continue.
Internship	Only in limited cases. Ask your school and check HiKorea.	Possible under certain conditions. Check before you start.
What you must show	Enrollment and study record	Job-search activities (keep records)
Period of stay	Linked to your study period	Given for a set period at a time. The total time on D-10 is limited.

Swipe to see the whole table

Timeline: from your last semester to approval

1
Last semester
Check your expected graduation date and your D-2 expiry date. Talk to your school’s international office. Start writing your job-search activity plan.
2
Graduation confirmed
Get your graduation certificate or degree certificate from your school.
3
Prepare documents
Collect everything on the list above. Check the HiKorea checklist again for your case.
4
Apply
Apply online if your case allows it. If not, book a visit on HiKorea early and apply in person.
5
Wait and check
Check your application status on HiKorea. If you are asked for more documents, send them quickly.
6
After approval
Check your new period of stay. Get part-time work permission before you start any part-time job. Keep records of your job search, such as applications and interviews.

Already have a job offer? If the job meets the E-7 conditions, you may be able to change directly from D-2 to E-7. Ask a counsellor before you apply for D-10.

Need help? K-PASS GLOBAL counsellors can check your case (study/visa/jobs).

Official sources

We link to the original source so you can check it yourself.

General information only. Rules change and depend on your situation — talk to an expert before you act.

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