Part-time work permit

Who this applies to

D-2 and D-4 holders who have obtained a part-time work permit

What to know

• Undergraduates who meet the Korean language requirement may work up to 25 hours on weekdays; those who do not, up to 10 hours.
• Graduate students who meet it may work up to 30 hours on weekdays; those who do not, up to 15 hours.
• The language requirement is TOPIK level 3 for first and second year undergraduates, level 4 for third and fourth year, and level 4 for graduate students. KIIP stages and Sejong Institute levels can substitute.
• Weekends and vacation periods are not subject to the weekly cap.
• Only certain kinds of work are permitted. Working without the permit affects your right to stay directly.

How it works

1. 1

   Agree the job and sign an employment contract.

2. 2

   Have your university international office confirm it.

3. 3

   Apply for the permit through HiKorea or your local immigration office.

4. 4

   Start work only after the permit is granted.

Common questions

Is working a few days without the permit really a problem?

Yes. Length does not matter — it is treated as unauthorised employment and stays on your record when you later apply to extend your stay or change status.

Are the hours the same every semester?

No. The hours and the requirements have been adjusted semester by semester. The figures here follow the sources listed above; confirm the current rules with your university and HiKorea before you start.