From Student to Work Visa: the D-2 → E-7 Pathway

Many students want to stay and work in Korea after graduating. The usual route is the D-2 → E-7 pathway, sometimes with a D-10 stop in between. Here's how to plan it so you don't fall out of status.

Planning your move? Ask a consultant.

The direct route: D-2 → E-7

With a qualifying job offer, graduates can change status from a student D-2 to a skilled-worker E-7 — often without leaving Korea. Your Korean degree strengthens the credential side, especially when it matches the occupation code.

The bridge route: D-2 → D-10 → E-7

No offer yet by graduation? The D-10 job-seeking visa lets you stay and look for work, then switch to an E-7 once hired.

Timing (the part people get wrong)

Start before your D-2 expires — ideally before graduation.
Line up the offer and occupation-code fit early.
File the change of status so there's no gap.

Requirements recap

A job matching an approved E-7 occupation.
Degree + experience that fit the code.
A salary meeting the current guideline.

See E-7 requirements for detail.

How Langle can help

Langle's consultants map your D-2 → (D-10) → E-7 timing, check the occupation fit, and handle the change of status. 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 switch from a D-2 to an E-7 after graduating?

Yes. With a qualifying job offer, graduates commonly change status from D-2 to E-7 without leaving Korea.

What if I don't have a job offer yet?

Consider the D-10 job-seeking visa as a bridge — it lets you stay and look for work before moving to an E-7.

When should I start the switch?

Before your D-2 expires and ideally before graduation, so there's no status gap while you finalize an offer and file.

Does my degree help E-7 approval?

Yes — a relevant Korean degree strengthens the credential side of the E-7, especially when it matches the occupation.