Introduction
South Korea is a popular destination for international students due to its educational structure. However, the recent reform in the South Korea student visa policy is expected to benefit international students even more.
To facilitate more foreign students’ enrolment, the South Korean government introduced a few changes to the existing student visa and work visa policies effective from July 3rd, 2023.
New South Korea Student Visa Policy
The new policy upgrades include financial and work hours relaxation for international students to ensure maximum enrolment. These are the new additions:
Financial Ease
Since funding is a major concern for students, the Korean Government has eased finance-related policies for visa applicants.
Previously, for a D-2 student visa, students needed KRW 26 million (USD 20,000). Now it is reduced to KRW 20 million (USD 15,000).
Students seeking a D-4 visa for language studies must have:
- KRW 10 million (USD 7,600) – Minimum bank balance
- KRW 13 million (USD 10,000) – In some cases
Working Hours / Internship Hours Ease
Earlier, international students could work up to 20 hours per week. As per the new policy:
- Up to 25 hours per week allowed
- Up to 30 hours per week for students studying outside major cities
Inclusion of Other Language Proficiency Tests
South Korea now accepts language test results other than TOPIK:
- King Sejong Institute Level Test
- Korean Language Ability Test (KLAT)
Increased Employment Opportunities (E-7 Visa)
South Korea reduced the required term period for the E-7 visa from 5 years to 4 years and loosened hiring restrictions for foreign professionals.
Why Did South Korea Change Its Student Visa Policy?
Despite having one of the world’s best educational systems, South Korea has seen a sharp decline in college-aged population. Reports show this number will drop by almost 40% in the next 20 years.
The Ministry of Education also identified 84 universities that are economically bankrupt. To preserve educational quality and international relations, South Korea is encouraging more international students.
How Indian Students Benefit from the New Policy
Indian students can take advantage of these updates in many ways:
- Relaxed minimum bank balance requirement
- Increased part-time working hours
- More employment opportunities through the E-7 work visa
- Multiple language proficiency test options (TOPIK not mandatory)
South Korea Student Visa Requirements for Indian Students
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Certificate of Admission (CoA) from a Korean university
- Visa application fee
- 1 passport-size photo
- Proof of finances (minimum required bank balance)
- Additional documents for exchange programs
If you are planning to study in South Korea, you can now benefit from these new student visa policy changes and fulfil your dream.
To know more about the visa process, language tests, and requirements — feel free to reach us!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in South Korea after graduation?
Yes. You can apply for a work visa or an E-7 visa to work in a South Korean company.
How to get a South Korean student visa?
Follow these steps:
- Step 1: Apply for a student visa
- Step 2: Choose a Korean university and apply
- Step 3: Visit your nearest Korean Embassy
- Step 4: Submit documents — passport, SOP, CoA, income proof
- Step 5: Collect your visa after approval
How much are South Korea student visa fees for Indians?
The visa fee ranges between INR 2,100 to INR 6,300 depending on the visa type.
“South Korea’s upgraded student visa policy opens new doors for global learners — especially Indian students.”
