Working in Korea
Complete guide to employment regulations, visa types, and job opportunities for international students in Korea
Quick Facts
Key employment information for international students
Minimum Wage (2026)₩10,320/hr
Bachelor (TOPIK met)25 hrs/week
Master/PhD (TOPIK met)30 hrs/week
Vacation/HolidaysUnlimited (TOPIK 4+)
Work Permit Fee₩20,000
Penalty (no permit)Up to ₩30M fine
Important Legal Notice
International students must obtain a part-time work permit before working in Korea. Working without a permit can result in up to 3 years imprisonment or fines up to ₩30,000,000, visa cancellation, and deportation. Always verify your eligibility with your university's international office.
How to Get a Work Permit
Step-by-step guide to obtaining your part-time work permit
1
Check Eligibility
Valid D-2 or D-4 visa, TOPIK level met, GPA 2.0+, attendance 70%+
2
Prepare Documents
Passport, ARC, enrollment certificate, transcript, employer info
3
Apply at Immigration
Submit at local Immigration Office or online at hikorea.go.kr
4
Receive Permit
Processing: 7-14 days. Fee: ₩20,000. Permit stamped on passport.
Required Documents
- Passport and Alien Registration Card (ARC)
- Enrollment certificate (재학증명서)
- Official transcript (GPA 2.0+ / attendance 70%+)
- Standard admission letter (표준입학허가서)
- Employment contract or employer info
- TOPIK certificate or English proficiency proof
Where to Apply
- Online (recommended): Apply at Hi Korea (hikorea.go.kr) — 24/7 available
- In person: Visit local Immigration Office (출입국·외국인청)
- Through university international office (for document prep)
- Processing time: 7-14 business days
- Fee: ₩20,000 per application
- Permit stamped on passport or issued as separate document
Questions About Jobs in Korea?
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