D-10 Visa Points System: Extension Requirements and Application Document Checklist

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D-10 Visa: A Comprehensive Guide on Points System, Extension Requirements, and Application Documents

For international students who have completed their studies in South Korea, the D-10 visa serves as a vital pathway to engage in job hunting or gain internship experience. In this article, we will meticulously break down the main types of D-10 visas, the points system criteria, application and extension procedures, essential documentation, and exemptions from the points system.

1. Types and Features of the D-10 Visa

The D-10 visa can be categorized into three primary types:

  • General Job Search (D-10-1): Designed for individuals seeking employment or internships in South Korea before securing full-time jobs, this category includes internships in professional fields (E-1 to E-7).

  • Startup Preparation (D-10-2): This is designated for activities related to entrepreneurship, such as patent applications and completion of startup training programs.

  • High-Tech Internships (D-10-3): This is for graduates or current students from prestigious overseas universities engaging in internships at advanced technology companies.

2. Points System Criteria and Extension Conditions

Applicants wishing to apply for or extend their D-10-1 visas must meet the following points system criteria:

  • A minimum of 20 points in the basic category and a total score of at least 60 out of 190 points.

  • Basic Criteria: Focused on age and highest degree attained.

  • Extension Conditions: Allow extensions of up to two years, in increments of six months.

  • Eligibility for 2-Year Extension: This includes:

  • Graduates with an Associate’s degree or higher from a domestic institution within the last three years.

  • Individuals with work experience in a global top 500 company within the last three years.

  • Graduates from top QS or Times-ranked universities outside Korea within the last three years.

  • Patent holders and participants in specific immigration startup programs.

3. Detailed Points System Breakdown

The points allocation example is as follows:

  • Age: 10 points (20–24 years), 15 points (25–29 years), 20 points (30–34 years), 15 points (35–39 years), 5 points (40–49 years).
  • Educational Background: 15 points for an Associate’s degree, 20 points for a Master’s degree, and 30 points for a Doctorate.
  • Additional points may be awarded for employment experience and studying in Korea (refer to official documentation for comprehensive scoring details).

4. Exemptions from the Points System

Certain individuals are eligible to apply for the D-10-1 visa without meeting the points criteria:

  • Those who graduated from accredited Korean institutions (Associate’s degree or higher) and are within three years of graduation with a TOPIK level 4 or higher, or those evaluated as excellent in the social integration program.

  • Professionals with work experience in E-1 to E-7 jobs seeking to transition after leaving their positions.

5. Summary of Required Documents

When applying for or extending the D-10-1 visa, the following documents are commonly required:

  • Application form, recent photo, passport copy, foreign registration card copy, and application fee.
  • Job search plan (including past activities and future plans).
  • Degree certificate and transcript.
  • Certificate of Korean language proficiency (if applicable).
  • Financial proof (living expenses): approximately 5.4 million KRW (around 900,000 KRW per month for 6 months).
  • Proof of residence (e.g., rental agreement).

6. Timing for Extensions and Restrictions

Extensions can be applied for starting four months before the visa’s expiration date. However, if the applicant has engaged in illegal employment, violated part-time work regulations, or incurred fines exceeding 400,000 KRW, the application for extension will be denied.

7. Conclusion

The D-10 visa is a crucial resource for international students exploring job opportunities or internships in South Korea. It is essential to fully understand the differences between the points system and exemptions, the required documentation, and the maximum allowable extension period. Pay particular attention to extensions, points requirements, and any illegal employment history, as these factors can significantly impact the assessment process.

For the most up-to-date points allocation table and guidelines, please refer to the Ministry of Justice or the HiKorea website. If you have specific circumstances (e.g., patent ownership or overseas education), tailored advice may be necessary for your situation.

Please note that this information is based on the current context and government policies may change over time. This article serves as general information and does not constitute legal advice.

For further consultations, feel free to visit our 1:1 Consultation Board.

If you want to calculate your D-10 points, check out the details here.