🌿 International student part-time jobs, "No permit needed!" Is it true?

When looking for a part-time job in Korea to earn living expenses, you may hear things like “You don’t need permission!” 😢

You might be tempted because you want to work right away, but as a foreign student you really need to be careful.

Here's a thorough summary of essential tips you must know to avoid visa problems! ✨

🚨 Don’t believe statements like "No need to report," or "You don’t need permission!"

Even good employers often don't know the visa laws for international students well.

D-2 and D-4 visas basically prohibit part-time work without proper documents.

1. Even for simple labor, cafes, or restaurant jobs, prior part-time work permit is mandatory.

2. If caught working without a permit, you could be fined up to 30 million KRW for violating immigration law.

3. Employers may also face up to 3 years in prison or fines up to 30 million KRW.

👉 Following the permit procedure is the way to keep both you and your employer safe!

⏰ Work hours differ by visa type and Korean proficiency!

Did you know that your allowed work conditions change completely depending on your visa type and Korean skill?

1. D-4 language students can only apply for jobs after 6 months since entry or status change.

2. If your Korean is below standard, undergraduates may work up to 10 hours per week (including weekends), and graduate students up to 15 hours.

3. If you meet the requirements or depending on your university, weekly hours can increase up to 25~35 during weekdays. If you qualify, there’s no hourly limit during vacation!

👉 Check your allowed work hours in advance using the 'VIVISA part-time hour calculator' in 'My Page' - 'Check available hours'!

❌ Check the industries strictly prohibited and exceptions!

International students can’t work just anywhere! There are restricted fields, so pay attention.

1. Construction, entertainment venues, massage, delivery, and kids cafes are restricted for part-time work.

2. Especially for construction, you can receive a departure order upon your first violation regardless of previous offenses.

3. On-campus student jobs (like assistants) and one-time short-term jobs are allowed without prior approval.

👉 Before starting any part-time job, carefully check if the field is allowed for you!

📝 Essential steps to start working safely!

The process looks complicated, but if you follow step by step, it won’t be hard at all! Apply in advance before starting work.

1. Fill out a standard employment contract stating the hourly wage (10,320 KRW as of 2026).

2. Obtain a confirmation of part-time employment signed by your university official, then submit it to the Immigration office or HiKorea.

3. Workplaces are limited to two locations; if you change workplaces, you must re-report within 15 days.

👉 If you have trouble, you can get free advice through 'Consult within the VIVISA app'. Get advice and work with confidence!

In conclusion

✔️ For student part-time jobs, prior 'part-time work permit' from immigration is required even if your boss says it’s okay!

✔️ The allowed work hours and time vary by your visa type and Korean proficiency.

✔️ Before you start working, always fill out and report the standard employment contract with the 2026 minimum wage.

Even if it’s a bit inconvenient, following the correct procedure is the safest.

We always support your successful and wise study abroad life in Korea! 💖

💡 VIVISA will help you.

VIVISA organizes the following information in an easy-to-understand way.

• Foreigner/International student visa information

• Part-time & employment regulations

• Essential administrative guide for living in Korea

Don’t worry about studying or working part-time in Korea anymore—just start easily with VIVISA! ✨