Working Part-Time on a Student Visa (Time Permit)
Can you work on a Korea student visa? How the part-time work permit works, the hour limits by level, eligible jobs, and rules to stay compliant.
Yes, you can work part-time on a student visa in Korea — but only with a work permit and within set limits. Doing it right protects your status; doing it wrong can end your studies. Here's how it works.
Questions about your situation? Ask a consultant.
You need a permit first
D-2 and D-4 students can work part-time only after receiving a work permit from immigration. Working before you have it — or beyond your allowed hours — can jeopardize your visa.
Hour limits
Weekly hour caps are tied to your study level and often to your grades and Korean ability:
- Degree students (D-2) usually get more hours.
- Language students (D-4) have stricter limits.
- Limits are often higher during official vacation periods.
Always confirm the current limits — they're updated periodically.
How to get the permit
- Gather proof of enrollment, attendance/grades, and often an employer confirmation.
- Apply at your immigration office (book on HiKorea).
- Start working only after approval.
Staying compliant
- Keep within your hour limit.
- Avoid excluded job types.
- Maintain attendance and grades — they affect permits.
- Re-check rules when you renew your visa.
How Langle can help
Langle's consultants confirm your eligibility and hours and prepare the permit application. Start free on our visa consulting page.
General information, not legal advice. Rules change; verify on HiKorea or with a consultant before applying.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I work on a student visa in Korea?
- Yes, but only after you get a part-time work permit from immigration, and within the weekly hours allowed for your study level. Working without the permit risks your status.
- How many hours can I work?
- There are weekly limits tied to your level and, often, your grades and Korean ability. Degree (D-2) students usually get more hours than language (D-4) students.
- How do I get the work permit?
- Apply at your immigration office (via HiKorea) with proof of enrollment, attendance/grades, and often a confirmation from the employer. Get it before you start working.
- What jobs are not allowed?
- Certain jobs are excluded, and full-time work isn't permitted. Check the current restrictions before accepting a role.