D-4 language-study visa: from application to switching to D-2
Last checked: 2026-11-10
This is general information. Rules and criteria can change and differ by situation, so confirm the latest details on HiKorea or with your school before applying. It is not legal advice.
The D-4 is the visa for foreigners learning Korean at a university language institute or similar. This guide covers how it differs from the D-2 and what happens when you later enroll in a degree program.
What is the D-4 visa?
D-4 is the general training status of residence. The most typical case is learning Korean at a university-run language institute. It has sub-categories such as D-4-1 depending on the type of training. The key difference from the D-2 is that it is not a degree program.
If you are entering a degree program at a university or graduate school, see the D-2 visa.
D-2 vs D-4: what is different?
| D-2 (study) | D-4 (language training) | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Degree or research study | Korean language or other training |
| Admission | Standard Admission Letter from a university or graduate school | Standard Admission Letter from a language institute or training provider |
| Duration | Extended to match your degree program | Term by term. It varies by school, and there may be a limit on the total time you can stay for training |
| Part-time work | Prior permission required | Prior permission required. Conditions such as when you may start can be stricter |
| Next step | Graduation, jobs and so on | Apply to change to D-2 when you enter a degree program |
Application flow (big picture)
- Apply to a language institute and get accepted. The school issues a Standard Admission Letter. Many university institutes run terms of about 10 weeks, but it varies by school.
- Apply for the visa at an embassy or consulate, or the school may obtain a Certificate for Confirmation of Visa Issuance and send it to you.
- Register as a foreign resident within 90 days of arrival.
- Extend your stay before the term ends if you continue to the next term.
Documents usually required
This varies by school and nationality. Follow your acceptance notice and the school's guidance for the exact list.
- Visa application form, passport, passport-style photo
- Standard Admission Letter from the language institute
- Proof of your last education
- Proof of financial ability (such as a bank balance certificate). The required amount differs by school and nationality.
- For some nationalities, health documents such as a TB test result
- Fee
When you enter a university: from D-4 to D-2
After language study, once you are accepted to a university or graduate school, the usual route is to apply for a change of status of residence to D-2. Follow the admitting school's instructions for documents and timing, and do it before your current permitted stay ends. Many schools require a Korean-language level (TOPIK), so check the admission conditions early.
Part-time work
With a D-4 you need prior permission to work part-time, and there are conditions such as a waiting period after arrival. Working without permission can hurt your stay, so check with your school and immigration before you start.
Official sources
- HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr)
- Study in Korea (studyinkorea.go.kr)
- Immigration Contact Center 1345
- The international office of your language institute
Frequently asked questions
Can I go to university later if I come on a D-4?
Usually yes. Once accepted, you apply to change your status of residence to D-2. Check each school's admission conditions, such as TOPIK, first.
How long can I stay on a D-4?
There may be a limit on the total time you can stay for training. Check the latest rule on HiKorea.
How long is a language-institute term?
Many university institutes run terms of about 10 weeks, but it varies by school. Check the institute's admission guide.