Summary: South Korea Student Visa for Indians
Visa Types: D-2 (Regular Academic Courses) and D-4 (Non-Academic, Non-Degree Courses)
Key Requirements:
Admission Letter from a South Korean university
Valid Passport (≥ 6 months)
Visa Application Form
Language Proficiency (TOPIK, TOEFL, IELTS, or TEPS)
Proof of Financial Support (≥ KRW 18,000,000 for D-2)
Health Insurance
Application Process:
Apply for university admission
Prepare documents
Submit application (in-person or through a registered agency)
Pay visa fee (KRW 30,000 - 90,000)
Collect visa after approval
Post-Arrival:
Apply for Alien Registration Card within 90 days
Possible health check
Tips:
Check latest requirements
Apply early
Ensure document apostille (if required)
Table of Contents
South Korea student visas are intended for international students who wish to pursue academic programs in the country. These visas are generally valid for the duration of the chosen course, along with a short grace period before and after the program. Depending on the visa type and the issuing embassy's discretion, the visa may be granted as a single, double, or multiple entry permit.
Similar to D-2 Visa requirements with the following adjustments:
Research: Look for universities in South Korea that offer your desired course.
Eligibility: Check the university's eligibility criteria for international students.
Application Portal: Submit your application through the university's online portal.
Required Documents for University Admission:
Academic Transcripts
Diplomas
Language Proficiency Tests (TOPIK, TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
Personal Statement/Essay
Letters of Recommendation
Application Fee: Pay the fee as specified by the university (if applicable).
Find an Agent: Look for agents registered with the Korean Embassy/Consulate or the university.
Agent’s Role: They can guide you through the application process, document preparation, and sometimes offer additional services like accommodation assistance.
Fees: Be aware of any additional fees charged by the agent.
Timeline for University Admission:
Deadline: Varies by university and semester (typically 2-6 months before the semester starts).
Response Time: Universities usually respond within 1-3 months after receiving the application.
Outcome:
Admission Letter: If accepted, you'll receive an admission letter from the university, which is crucial for your visa application.
Rejection: If rejected, you can apply to other universities or appeal the decision (if the university allows it).
Gather Required Documents (as detailed in the initial guide):
Admission Letter
Valid Passport
Visa Application Form
Recent Passport-Sized Photos
Transcripts and Diplomas
Proof of Language Proficiency
Proof of Financial Support
Health Insurance
Police Clearance Certificate (if required)
Translation and Apostille:
Translation: If documents are not in English or Korean, translate them.
Apostille: For documents that require authentication, obtain an apostille from the relevant Indian authority.
Make Copies: Keep original documents safe and make copies for submission.
Tips for Document Preparation:
Double-Check: Ensure all documents meet the embassy/consulate’s requirements.
Organize: Keep documents in order for easy submission and review.
In Person:
Choose the Correct Office:
Embassy of the Republic of Korea in New Delhi: For residents of certain areas; check the embassy's website.
Consulate General in Mumbai, Chennai, or Kolkata: Depending on your residence.
Visit the Office:
Hours of Operation: Check the office hours to plan your visit.
Required Documents: Bring all prepared documents.
Submission Process: Submit your application to the designated officer.
Receive a Receipt:
Acknowledgement: Get a receipt or a reference number for your application.
Find an Authorized Agency:
Check with the Embassy/Consulate: Ensure the agency is authorized to submit visa applications.
Submit Through the Agency:
Service Fee: Pay the agency’s service fee in addition to the visa application fee.
Document Review: The agency will review your documents before submission.
Tracking:
Application Status: The agency may provide updates on your application status.
Submission Timeline:
Recommended: Submit your application at least 4-6 weeks before your intended departure to South Korea.
Peak Seasons: Allow more time during peak application seasons (usually before semesters begin).
Fee Amount:
Currently, KRW 30,000 to KRW 90,000 (approximately INR 2,000 to INR 6,000).
Dependent on Visa Type and Duration.
Payment Methods:
Cash: At the embassy/consulate (if accepted).
Credit/Debit Card: If the embassy/consulate or agency accepts card payments.
Bank Transfer: In some cases, payment can be made through a bank transfer; check for specific details.
Receipt:
Proof of Payment: Ensure you receive a receipt for the visa application fee.
Processing Time:
Typical: 2-4 weeks.
Variable: Can be longer depending on the application's complexity or during peak seasons.
Additional Requirements:
Interview: You might be called for an interview at the embassy/consulate.
Further Documentation: Be prepared to submit additional documents if requested.
Communication:
Email/Phone Updates: The embassy/consulate or agency might contact you for updates or requirements.
Tracking: If available, use online tracking services to monitor your application status.
Notification:
Email/Phone: You'll be notified once your visa is ready.
Collection Time: Check the specified time for collection.
Visa Collection:
In Person: Typically, you or an authorized person must collect the visa.
Required Documents for Collection:
The receipt or reference number given during submission.
Your passport.
Verify Your Visa: Before leaving the embassy/consulate, ensure all visa details are correct.
Validity Period:
Entry Before Expiration: Ensure you enter South Korea before your visa's entry permit expires.
Travel Documents:
Valid Passport: With the visa.
Admission Letter: Sometimes requested by immigration.
Proof of Onward/Return Ticket: May be required.
Immigration Process:
Proceed to Immigration: After arriving at the airport.
Present Documents: Show your passport with the visa and other requested documents.
Biometric Data: May be collected.
Post-Arrival:
Register with the University: Complete any necessary university registration processes.
Alien Registration Card: Apply for this within 90 days of arrival, as guided by your university.
Typically 2-4 weeks, but can vary depending on the application's complexity and the embassy's workload.
Yes, with certain restrictions. For D-2 visa holders, you can work up to 20 hours a week after obtaining an additional permit. D-4 visa rules may vary; check with your university.
Yes, ensure your health insurance is valid in South Korea and covers the entire duration of your stay. Your university can provide recommendations.
Currently, the final submission often requires a physical presence at the embassy or consulate, or through a registered agency. However, some initial applications or document submissions might be facilitated online; check with the relevant authority.
You can reapply after addressing the reasons for the rejection, which will be communicated to you by the embassy/consulate. Ensure you have sufficient time before your intended departure to South Korea.