Part-time Work Rules for D-2 and D-4 Students
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You can work part-time in Korea as a student, but only with permission, only for limited hours, and only in allowed jobs. Breaking these rules can cost you your visa. Here is what you need to know.
How many hours can you work?
Your weekly limit depends on your visa, your year of study and your Korean level (TOPIK or KIIP). These are the standard limits for 2026:
| Student | Korean level | With it | Without it |
|---|---|---|---|
| D-4 language student | TOPIK 2 | 20 h/week | 10 h/week |
| D-2 bachelor, year 1–2 | TOPIK 3 | 25 h/week | 10 h/week |
| D-2 bachelor, year 3–4 | TOPIK 4 | 25 h/week | 10 h/week |
| D-2 master's or PhD | TOPIK 4 | 30 h/week | 15 h/week |
D-2 students who meet the language level can usually work without an hour limit on weekends, public holidays and school vacations. Some universities have extra hours or special rules, especially for English-track students. Always confirm your own limit with your international office.
Other conditions
- Grades: D-2 students usually need a GPA of C (2.0) or higher in the last semester.
- Attendance: D-4 students usually need good attendance (often 90% or more).
- Waiting time: D-4 language students must usually be in Korea for 6 months before they can work.
How to get permission
- Find a job and sign a standard employment contract (hourly wage, duties and hours written down).
- Ask your university's international student advisor to sign the confirmation form.
- Apply online on HiKorea or at the immigration office.
- Start work only after approval.
You will usually need your passport, ARC, enrollment certificate, transcript or attendance record, TOPIK certificate, the employment contract, and the employer's business registration certificate.
Jobs you cannot do
- Construction work
- Delivery riding and designated driving
- Private tutoring
- Door-to-door or direct sales, and insurance sales
- Jobs through dispatch or subcontracting agencies
- Bars and entertainment venues
- Manufacturing, except in limited cases
Know your pay
Korea's minimum wage is KRW 10,320 per hour in 2026 and will be KRW 10,700 per hour from January 2027. It applies to foreign students too. If you are not paid, call the Ministry of Employment and Labor at 1350.
Watch out for scams
- Jobs that ask you to collect or deliver cash for someone.
- Anyone who asks to "rent" your bank account, bank card or ARC.
- Offers that ask you to pay a fee before you start.
- Very high pay for very easy work, often posted on social media.
These are often linked to voice-phishing crimes, and students can be punished even if they did not know.
