Visa

🎓 Language school over! Study abroad life begins! D-2 visa change guide

2026-05-06

Did you finish your language school safely and are you finally about to enter a Korean university?

You might be worried because you're not sure if your visa changes automatically, or when and how to prepare.

If you just follow today’s guidance, changing your visa from D-4 to D-2 won’t be difficult! ✨

Were you confused about whether you can keep your visa after finishing language school?

Changing your status of stay before admission is not optional, but required!

D-4 visa is for language training and non-degree programs.
D-2 visa is for students in degree programs such as bachelor's, master's, or doctoral courses.
Since your purpose changes once you enter university, you must change your status before the semester starts.
If you do nothing, your visa won't change to D-2 automatically, so you must apply separately.

👉 Knowing just this helps you get your Korean study life off to the right start!

You may have wondered if you can change it slowly after the semester begins.

But the timing of your application is very important!

Changing from D-4 to D-2 should be done before the semester starts as a basic rule.
After your language course ends, you must change it within 1 month during your alien registration card’s valid period.
If you apply after the semester starts, you may face disadvantages and you cannot leave the country before review is complete.
It may take 5-6 weeks after submission, so prepare in advance.

👉 If you prepare early, you can relax before the semester starts!

It's confusing with so many documents to gather, right?

We'll sort out the core required documents one by one for you!

Basic documents: Integrated application form, proof of residence, passport copy, alien registration card copy, ID photo for passport (3.5cm*4.5cm, taken within 6 months), balance certificate, etc.
Admission related: You need the standard admission letter, tuition payment certificate, and final academic achievement certificate.
D-4 special documents: A transcript and attendance certificate from your previous language institute is very important!
A status change fee applies. (As of May 2026, about 135,000 KRW. Check with each school.)

👉 If you make a checklist and check items off one by one, you can prepare quickly!

Were you anxious about how much you need to have in your bank account?

Each school has different financial requirements, so be sure to check!

Generally, you need a bank balance certificate showing at least 20 million KRW and documents proving financial capability.
For certified universities, a 50% reduction applies.
The amounts vary greatly by school and case, so confirming with the admission office is essential!

👉 If you check your school’s required amount in advance, you won’t be caught off guard!

Finally, here are some points to watch out for to avoid unexpected problems.

Be sure to check!

Required documents and eligibility may differ depending on nationality, school, and immigration office.
Your attendance and grades at the language school can affect your visa change.
Since regulations can change often, it’s most accurate to call the Immigration Contact Center (dial 1345) or your local immigration office.

👉 By making a quick phone call in advance, you can prepare perfectly!

✔️ D-4 is for language training, D-2 is for students in degree programs!

✔️ Prepare your documents in advance and change your status before the semester starts!

✔️ Financial proof standards and required documents differ by school, so be sure to check with 1345 or your school’s international office!

We truly support the start of your new campus life. Good luck! 🌸

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

Don’t worry about studying abroad or part-time work in Korea anymore—start comfortably with VIVISA! ✨