What is the bank balance requirement for D-10?

Published guidelines indicate the financial proof benchmark is ₩1,148,166/month (2025 figure, based on Annual Housing Benefit Standard for 1-person household). For a standard 6-month D-10 application, this translates to approximately ₩6,888,996 in available bank funds. Community forums sometimes cite ₩900,000–₩1,100,000/month or ₩30,000,000 as the requirement — these figures may reflect older embassy practices or specific consular interpretations. Verify the current threshold directly with Korean immigration (tel: 1345) or your local Korean embassy before applying. D-2 graduate visa holders applying for their first D-10 may be exempt from this financial proof requirement.

What is the difference between D-10-1 and D-10-2?

D-10-1 is the general job-seeking track for professionals looking for employment with a Korean company in categories E-1 through E-7. D-10-2 is the startup preparation track for individuals intending to establish a technology-based company in Korea. D-10-2 typically requires enrollment in a government-recognized startup support program like OASIS (Overall Assistance for Startup Immigration System) and a written business plan. The D-10-2 pathway leads to a D-8-4 (Technology Startup) visa upon successful company registration, while D-10-1 leads to an E-7 or other employment visa upon finding a job.

Can I work part-time on a D-10 visa?

Part-time work on D-10 requires prior immigration approval via 'Permission for Activities Outside the Status of Stay' (체류자격외활동허가). According to published guidelines, this applies only to D-10-1 holders from Korean institutions who are within 3 years of graduation, with no prior E-1 to E-7 visa history. TOPIK Level 4 is the minimum required for any part-time work (20 hours/week). TOPIK Level 5 or higher allows up to 30 hours/week. Permitted work is non-professional only (e.g., convenience stores, restaurants, office assistance). Prohibited categories include manufacturing, construction, English academies, tutoring, and delivery/gig work. Working without this permission — even a single part-time shift — is a visa violation that can result in deportation and re-entry bans.

How do I extend my D-10 visa?

Submit an extension application at your local immigration office at least 30 days before your D-10 expires. Required documents for extension typically include: updated bank statement (meeting the ₩1,148,166/month threshold), evidence of ongoing job search activities (application records, interview confirmations), updated resume, and your current ARC. TOPIK Level 4 or higher, or Social Integration Program completion, may strengthen your extension application and in some cases replace certain financial proof requirements. Extension increments depend on point score: 80+ points = 1-year renewals (D-10-1 up to 4 extensions, D-10-2 up to 5 extensions); 60–79 points = 6-month renewals. The maximum total stay on D-10 status is 3 years (extended from 2 years per October 2025 immigration reform). If you have not found employment by then, you will need to either leave Korea or qualify for a different visa status.

What happens if I can't find a job within 3 years?

According to published immigration guidelines, the maximum total stay on D-10 status is 3 years (extended from 2 years per October 2025 immigration reform). If you are unable to secure employment within this period, you will need to leave Korea or change to a different visa status. Options depend on individual circumstances: H-1 (working holiday, if age-eligible), D-2 (return to study), or B-2 (short-term tourist stay while arranging departure). Immigration officers evaluate the genuineness of ongoing job search activity at each extension. Begin planning your transition to E-7 (or an alternative) well before the maximum stay approaches.

Do I need TOPIK to get a D-10 visa?

TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is not a strict requirement to obtain an initial D-10 visa. However, TOPIK Level 4 is the minimum required for any part-time work authorization (20 hours/week). TOPIK Level 5 or higher allows up to 30 hours/week of part-time work. For Korean university graduates, TOPIK Level 4+ within 3 years of graduation also qualifies for exemption from the 190-point evaluation system on initial D-10-1 application. TOPIK scores are also valuable when eventually applying for E-7 or F-2 visas.

Can I freelance or work remotely for a foreign company while on D-10?

According to published immigration guidelines, D-10 is a job-seeking visa and does not authorize independent freelancing, self-employment, or work for foreign companies inside Korea. Remote work for a foreign employer while physically in Korea may violate D-10 visa conditions. If you are a remote worker employed by a foreign company, the F-1-D (Digital Nomad Visa) is the appropriate status. Engaging in unauthorized work on a D-10 visa is a status violation. Consult an immigration specialist (행정사) if your situation involves remote work.

What is the OASIS program and how do I apply for D-10-2?

OASIS (Overall Assistance for Startup Immigration System) is a government-funded program run by Korea's Ministry of Justice and startup ecosystem partners. It provides classes, mentoring, incubation support, and startup ecosystem access in English, specifically for foreigners intending to launch technology businesses in Korea. OASIS acceptance is the standard pathway to a D-10-2 visa. The program accepts cohorts 2-3 times per year. After completing OASIS requirements and registering your company, you can apply for a D-8-4 (Technology Startup) visa. Check oasisvisa.com for current intake schedules and requirements.

What is the D-10-2 to D-8-4 pathway?

D-10-2 is explicitly designed as a preparation step before obtaining a D-8-4 (Technology Startup) visa. After receiving D-10-2 status, founders attend OASIS classes and workshops, develop their business, and work toward company registration. According to published guidelines, D-8-4 qualification is points-based (60+ OASIS certificate points + bachelor's degree + IP rights). The company must be formally incorporated. Founders apply for a D-8-4 visa upon meeting these requirements, which allows full operation of the startup. The transition from D-10-2 to D-8-4 must occur within the D-10-2 validity period (maximum 3 years total).

Can I intern at a Korean company while on D-10?

Yes. According to published guidelines, internships or training positions at Korean companies are generally permitted under D-10 status with appropriate immigration permission (체류자격외활동허가). An internship can be a useful step toward transitioning to full employment and eventually an E-7 visa. The internship must be formally structured and the employment contract must not extend beyond your D-10 visa expiration date. Unpaid internships may have different treatment than paid positions — confirm with immigration.

How do I transition from D-10 to E-7?

Once you secure a full-time employment offer from a Korean company, the transition from D-10 to E-7 follows the standard E-7 process: (1) Your employer files a CCVI (Certificate of Confirmation of Visa Issuance, 사증발급인정서) application at the local Korean immigration office. (2) Immigration reviews the application (2-4 weeks). (3) You apply for a status change at the local immigration office using the CCVI number. You must not begin full-time employment before the E-7 status change is approved. Report the new employment to immigration within 15 days of starting work. The entire transition process can take 4-8 weeks, so begin the employer's CCVI process well before your D-10 expires.

What are the penalties for overstaying a D-10 visa?

Overstay may result in fines (up to ₩30,000,000), deportation, and re-entry bans of 1–10 years. Contact the immigration helpline (1345) for current penalty details. Overstaying can also make it significantly harder to obtain future Korean visas. If you are unable to leave or change status before your visa expires, contact Korean immigration (tel: 1345) immediately. Extension applications submitted before expiry are generally reviewed without overstay penalty during processing, but this is not guaranteed — submit well in advance.

What path does D-10 offer toward long-term residency in Korea?

D-10 itself does not directly lead to long-term residency. The intended pathway is: D-10 → E-7 (or D-8 for startup founders) → F-2 (Points-based Resident) → F-5 (Permanent Resident). The time spent on D-10 generally does not count toward the F-2 or F-5 continuous residency requirements. Building a strong employment history on E-7 is the most direct path toward long-term residency. Beginning Korean language study (TOPIK) and tax payment records while on D-10 can provide a head start for the E-7 → F-2 transition.

Korea Job Seeking Visa (D-10)

Stay in Korea while you search for employment or prepare your startup

At a Glance

Duration

6 months (D-10-1) or 6 months

Fees

~USD 60-100

Processing Time

2-4 weeks

Max Stay

Up to 3 years total (D-10-1 and D-10-2)

Bachelor's degree or higher
Proof of financial self-sufficiency (bank balance)
No current employment in Korea (without separate permission)
Clean criminal background

Key Requirements

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) + proof of financial self-sufficiency (bank balance) + no current employment in Korea

RequiredBachelor's degree or higher
According to published immigration requirements, applicants must hold at least a bachelor's degree from a Korean or foreign university. The degree certificate must be apostilled or authenticated by the Korean embassy in the issuing country.
Foreign degrees must be apostilled or embassy-authenticated before submission
Degrees not in Korean or English must include a notarized translation
RequiredProof of financial self-sufficiency (bank balance)
According to published requirements, applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves during the job search period. For D-10-1 initial applications from D-2 (student) visa holders, this requirement may be waived. For others and for extensions, a bank balance certificate is required. Published guidelines indicate the benchmark is ₩1,148,166/month (2025 figure, based on Annual Housing Benefit Standard for 1-person household — subject to annual government update). For a 6-month stay, this translates to approximately ₩6,888,996 in available funds. Verify the current threshold with immigration (1345) or HiKorea before applying.
The ₩30,000,000 figure cited in some community forums may refer to older requirements or specific embassy interpretations — verify current thresholds with immigration (1345) or HiKorea
Bank statements must typically be recent (within 3 months) and show a consistent balance
RequiredNo current employment in Korea (without separate permission)
D-10 is a job-seeking visa, not a work visa. Applicants must not currently hold full-time employment in Korea. Part-time work up to 20–30 hours per week may be authorized separately by immigration.

OptionalProfessional training completion (alternative to degree)
Published guidelines indicate that completion of a recognized professional training program may substitute for a formal degree in certain cases. Consult your local immigration office for specific accepted programs.
OptionalD-10-1: Two-track eligibility system
D-10-1 has two tracks: (1) Korean university graduates — exempt from point system if within 3 years of graduation with TOPIK 4+; (2) Foreign degree holders — must pass point-based evaluation (60+ points out of 190, with 20+ in basic items). Published guidelines indicate applicants should confirm which track applies before submitting documents.
OptionalD-10-1: 190-point evaluation system (for non-exempt applicants)
D-10-1 uses a 190-point evaluation system for non-exempt applicants. According to published guidelines, a minimum of 60 points is required (with 20+ in basic items). 80+ points qualifies for a 3-year stay with 1-year renewals. 60–79 points results in a 1-year stay with 6-month renewals. Korean university graduates within 3 years of graduation with TOPIK 4+ are exempt from the point system.
OptionalD-10-2: Enrollment in recognized startup support program
For the D-10-2 startup preparation track, published guidelines indicate that applicants must be enrolled in or accepted to a government-recognized startup support program. The most common pathway is through the OASIS (Overall Assistance for Startup Immigration System) program at oasisvisa.com. TIPS (Tech Incubator Program for Startup) or other Ministry of SMEs-recognized programs may also qualify.
OASIS accepts applications in cohorts — check oasisvisa.com for current intake schedules
A detailed business plan in Korean and/or English is typically required for program acceptance
OptionalD-10-2: Written business plan
For the startup preparation track, a business plan demonstrating the technology-based nature of the intended startup is required as part of both the OASIS application and the D-10-2 visa application.

See 1 additional requirements

Clean criminal background
A recent police clearance certificate from your home country is typically required. Most immigration offices require the certificate to be within 6 months of issuance and apostilled.

Work Permission

Not allowed

RestrictionD-10 is a job-seeking visa — full-time employment is not permitted
RestrictionPart-time work requires separate 'Permission for Activities Outside the Status of Stay' (체류자격외활동허가) — this must be approved before starting any work
RestrictionPart-time work permission application can only be submitted approximately 2 weeks after D-10 status is confirmed
RestrictionThe part-time employment contract must not extend beyond your D-10 visa expiration date
RestrictionFreelancing or independent contracting without immigration permission is not permitted
RestrictionWorking without permission is a visa violation and may result in deportation and re-entry bans
RestrictionOnly D-10-1 holders from Korean institutions qualify for part-time work permission, and applicants must be within 3 years of graduation
RestrictionApplicants must have no prior E-1 to E-7 visa history to qualify for part-time work under D-10-1
RestrictionPart-time work is restricted to non-professional roles only (e.g., convenience stores, restaurants, office assistance)
RestrictionPROHIBITED work types: manufacturing, construction, English academies, tutoring, delivery/gig work

D-10 is specifically designed as a non-work, job-seeking visa. Any employment — even part-time — requires prior immigration approval. Engaging in unauthorized work is the most common reason for D-10 status violations. If you receive a full-time job offer, you must change your visa status (to E-7 or another work category) before officially starting work.

Tax Implications

Threshold:: 183 days

According to Korean tax law, individuals who stay in Korea for 183 days or more in a calendar year may be classified as tax residents.
D-10 visa holders who engage in authorized part-time work in Korea are subject to Korean income tax on that income.
If you transition to E-7 or another work visa during the tax year, your global income obligations may change.
Double tax treaties may apply depending on nationality.
Consult a licensed tax professional (세무사) for specific guidance.

Source: National Tax Service (NTS)

The ₩30,000,000 bank balance figure circulates in expat communities and some embassies — but published government guidelines reference ₩1,148,166/month (2025 figure, based on Annual Housing Benefit Standard for 1-person household; approximately ₩6,888,996 for 6 months). Always verify the current requirement directly with immigration (1345) or HiKorea before applying, as requirements can vary by consulate and may have changed.
Taking TOPIK before your first extension can pay off: TOPIK Level 4 is the minimum required for any part-time work (20 hrs/week), and Level 5+ unlocks 30 hours/week. Korean university graduates with TOPIK 4+ within 3 years of graduation are also exempt from the 190-point evaluation system. Even a lower score shows good faith to immigration officers.

Process

3-6 weeks (including document preparation)

Estimated total timeline

3-6 weeks (including document preparation)

Embassy visa processing: 5-15 business days. Status change at Korean immigration: 2-4 weeks. Processing times vary by nationality, immigration office workload, and season. For criminal background checks requiring international processing (e.g., FBI for US citizens), plan for 12-18 weeks lead time. According to published guidelines, submit status change applications at least 30 days before your current visa expires.

Determine Your Eligibility and Sub-Category

Decide whether you are applying for D-10-1 (general job seeking) or D-10-2 (startup preparation). For D-10-1, confirm you hold at least a bachelor's degree and have sufficient financial proof. For D-10-2, confirm OASIS or other program acceptance before applying.

D-2 graduates: check if your university's international office can assist with status change documentation
D-10-2 founders: OASIS intake rounds occur 2-3 times per year — check oasisvisa.com for schedules
If already in Korea on another visa, apply for a status change (체류자격변경) at local immigration

Prepare All Required Documents

Gather your degree certificate (apostilled), bank statement, criminal background check, passport, resume, and job search plan. For D-10-2, also prepare OASIS acceptance letter and business plan.

Apostille and embassy authentication of foreign documents can take several weeks — start early
Criminal background checks from some countries (e.g., FBI check for US citizens) take 12-18 weeks
Open a Korean bank account before applying if possible — Korean bank statements are strongly preferred

Option A: Apply at Korean Embassy (from abroad)

5-15 business days

If you are outside Korea, submit your D-10 visa application at the Korean embassy or consulate in your country. Book an appointment in advance. Bring originals and copies of all documents.

Book embassy appointments early — wait times vary by location
Some embassies accept mail-in applications — check your local embassy website
Bring certified Korean translations of any documents not in Korean or English

Option B: Status Change at Korean Immigration (already in Korea)

2-4 weeks for decision

If you are already in Korea on a valid visa (D-2, H-1, E-2, etc.), apply for a status change (체류자격변경) at your local immigration office. Book an appointment on HiKorea (www.hikorea.go.kr).

Apply before your current visa expires — overstay may result in fines (up to ₩30,000,000), deportation, and re-entry bans of 1–10 years. Contact the immigration helpline (1345) for current penalty details.
Submit at least 30 days before your current visa expires to allow processing time
Some immigration offices allow same-day walk-in applications for status change — but waits can be hours long; appointments are strongly recommended

Enter Korea and Register for ARC

2-3 weeks for ARC issuance

After receiving your D-10 visa, enter Korea. New arrivals must register for an Alien Registration Card (ARC) within 90 days of entry. The 14-day deadline applies to reporting a change of address — not ARC registration. For in-country status changes, ARC is updated during the status change process.

Book ARC appointment on HiKorea in advance
Bring passport, photos, proof of address, and visa-specific documents
You receive a receipt immediately that serves as a temporary ID
ARC is required for opening a bank account, signing a phone contract, and most official services

Apply for Part-Time Work Permission (if needed)

Typically 1-2 weeks processing

If you wish to work part-time while job searching, you must apply separately for 'Permission for Activities Outside the Status of Stay' (체류자격외활동허가) at immigration. This must be approved before starting any part-time work.

According to published guidelines, there is an approximately 2-week waiting period after your D-10 status is confirmed before you can apply for part-time work permission
The employment contract for part-time work must not extend beyond your visa expiration date
TOPIK Level 4 is the minimum for any part-time work authorization (20 hours/week). TOPIK Level 5+ allows up to 30 hours/week. Only D-10-1 holders from Korean institutions within 3 years of graduation with no prior E-1 to E-7 visa history qualify. Non-professional work only — prohibited categories include manufacturing, construction, English academies, tutoring, and delivery/gig work.

Actively Job Search and Document Your Activities

Engage in documented job search activities: apply to positions, attend interviews, use employment agencies, and network. Keep records of all activities as these are reviewed at extension time.

Job portals: Saramin (saramin.co.kr), JobKorea (jobkorea.co.kr), LinkedIn Korea, Wanted, Jumpit (IT/tech)
Government job matching for foreigners: Work Together Korea (고용노동부)
Document every application, interview, and networking event — immigration may ask for proof at extension

Transition to E-7 (or D-8 for startup founders)

3-6 weeks (CCVI review + status change processing)

Once you secure employment with a Korean company, work with your employer to file for a status change to E-7 (or the appropriate E-category). For D-10-2 founders who incorporate a startup, apply for D-8-4 (Technology Startup) visa.

Your employer must file the CCVI application at immigration before your D-10 expires
Report starting any new employment to immigration within 15 days
For D-10-2 to D-8-4: satisfy OASIS program points requirements and company registration before applying

Many D-10 holders report that immigration requires approximately a 2-week waiting period after your status change before you can apply for part-time work permission. Plan for this gap if you are relying on part-time income.
Walk-in attempts at immigration offices (especially Seoul Nowon and Gangnam) are reported to involve hours-long waits. Booking an appointment online via HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) is strongly recommended for status change and extension applications.
Immigration officers reviewing D-10 extensions assess whether you are genuinely job seeking. Keep screenshots of every application, interview email, and recruiter conversation. A folder of documented activity goes a long way at the extension counter.

FAQ

Show all 13 questions

Tips

Open a Korean bank account immediately after ARC registration — this simplifies financial proof for extensions
Document all job search activities (application emails, interview invitations, company contacts) from day one — you may need to show these at extension time
Submit your status change or extension application at least 30 days before your D-10 expires — processing can take 2-4 weeks
For D-10-2 founders: OASIS intake rounds are competitive and occur only 2-3 times per year — do not wait until you arrive in Korea to start the application process
TOPIK Level 4 is the minimum for any part-time work authorization (20 hrs/week). TOPIK Level 5+ increases the limit to 30 hours/week and strengthens extension applications
Internships at Korean companies are permitted under D-10 with immigration approval and can lead directly to E-7 sponsorship
Job portals: Saramin (saramin.co.kr), JobKorea, LinkedIn Korea, Wanted.co.kr, Jumpit (tech-focused)

Sources & Related Visas

Official Sources

Last updated: 2026-03-18

Visa Status Change

Looking to change your visa status?

See 3 available paths from D-10

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized immigration guidance, consult a licensed immigration consultant (행정사) or attorney (변호사). Final decisions on visa issuance rest solely with the Korean Ministry of Justice and immigration authorities.

Based on published requirements. Not legal advice.

Korea Job Seeking Visa (D-10)

At a Glance

Key Requirements

Work Permission

Tax Implications

Documents

Required Documents (0 of 11 completed)

Prepare Yourself

Optional Documents

Process

Determine Your Eligibility and Sub-Category

Prepare All Required Documents

Option A: Apply at Korean Embassy (from abroad)

Option B: Status Change at Korean Immigration (already in Korea)

Enter Korea and Register for ARC

Apply for Part-Time Work Permission (if needed)

Actively Job Search and Document Your Activities

Transition to E-7 (or D-8 for startup founders)

FAQ

Tips

Sources & Related Visas

Official Sources

Related Visas

Work Permission

Tax Implications

Required Documents (0 of 11 completed)

Prepare Yourself

Optional Documents

Determine Your Eligibility and Sub-Category

Prepare All Required Documents

Option A: Apply at Korean Embassy (from abroad)

Option B: Status Change at Korean Immigration (already in Korea)

Enter Korea and Register for ARC

Apply for Part-Time Work Permission (if needed)

Actively Job Search and Document Your Activities

Transition to E-7 (or D-8 for startup founders)

Tips

Official Sources

Related Visas