How Indian Students Can Apply for a D-2 Visa to Study in Korea
The D-2 visa is a long-term visa issued to international students who wish to pursue full-time studies at a higher education institution in South Korea. Indian students who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for a D-2 visa to study in Korea.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a D-2 visa, Indian students must meet the following criteria:
- Admission to a Korean University: Have been admitted to a Korean university or college for a full-time degree program (undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral).
- Financial Stability: Have sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay in Korea, including tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in Korean or English, the primary languages of instruction in Korean universities.
- Good Health: Be in good physical and mental health, and have no communicable diseases or conditions that pose a health risk to others.
- No Criminal Record: Have no criminal record or history of involvement in illegal activities.
Application Process
1. Gather Required Documents:
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Acceptance letter from the Korean university
- Proof of financial stability (bank statements, scholarship documents, etc.)
- Certificate of language proficiency (TOPIK or IELTS/TOEFL)
- Health certificate from a designated medical institution
- Criminal record certificate
- Passport-sized photographs
2. Apply Online:
- Visit the website of the Korean Immigration Service (KIS): https://www.immigration.go.kr/
- Click on “Apply for Visa” and select “D-2 Visa.”
- Create an account and complete the online application form.
- Upload the required documents.
3. Submit Application in Person:
- After completing the online application, make an appointment to submit the physical documents at the Korean embassy or consulate in India.
- Bring the original and copies of all required documents.
4. Biometrics and Interview:
- At the embassy or consulate, you will be required to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph).
- In some cases, you may also be interviewed by a visa officer.
5. Visa Issuance:
- The visa processing time varies depending on the embassy or consulate.
- Once your application is approved, you will receive a D-2 visa sticker in your passport.
Additional Information
- Duration of Visa: The D-2 visa is valid for the duration of your studies, plus an additional 90 days.
- Extension: You can extend your D-2 visa if you continue your studies or change universities.
- Employment: D-2 visa holders are allowed to work part-time in Korea, up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during university breaks.
- Health Insurance: All D-2 visa holders are required to have health insurance coverage while in Korea.
- Cost: The visa application fee varies depending on the embassy or consulate.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply well in advance of your intended departure date to allow ample time for processing.
- Ensure that all documents are complete, accurate, and translated into Korean or English if necessary.
- Practice your interview skills and be prepared to answer questions about your study plans and financial stability.
- Check the website of the Korean Immigration Service or contact the Korean embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements and procedures.