Student Visa for South Korea (D-2 and D-4): Documents, Requirements and Process
After you receive an offer from a Korean university, the next major step is your student visa. South Korea uses two main student visa categories, the D-2 and the D-4, and knowing which one applies to you is essential. This guide explains the difference, the documents you need, and how the process works for Bangladeshi students.
D-2 or D-4: what is the difference?
The two visas cover different kinds of study:
- The D-2 visa is for students enrolled in a full degree program, such as a Bachelor's, Master's, MBA, or doctoral course at a university.
- The D-4 visa is for students in a language or preparatory program, such as a university Korean language course or an EAP pathway.
If you are joining a degree, you will normally apply for the D-2. If you are starting with language study or a preparatory year, you will normally apply for the D-4.
Start with the Certificate of Admission
Your visa application depends on the Certificate of Admission issued by your university after you are accepted. This document confirms your enrollment and is one of the core items the Korean mission reviews. You cannot apply for a student visa without a genuine admission from a recognized institution.
Documents you will usually need
Requirements can vary slightly, but Bangladeshi applicants are generally asked to prepare:
- A completed visa application form.
- A valid passport and passport-sized photographs.
- Your Certificate of Admission from the university.
- Academic transcripts and certificates, often notarized or apostilled.
- Proof of financial ability, such as bank statements, to show you can cover tuition and living costs.
- Evidence of language ability where required, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or a TOPIK result.
Consistency is important. Your name, dates, and details should match across every document. Missing translations or inconsistent records are common causes of delay.
How the process works
The typical sequence looks like this:
- Receive your admission offer and Certificate of Admission from the university.
- Prepare and organize your visa documents, including financial proof.
- Submit your application to the Korean mission responsible for Bangladesh, following its current instructions.
- Wait for processing, which can take several weeks, so apply early.
- Collect your visa and finalize your travel plans.
Because embassy requirements and processing times can change, always confirm the latest details before you apply.
After you arrive in Korea
Your responsibilities do not end at the airport. Most international students must register for an Alien Registration Card within the first ninety days, arrange health insurance, and complete university orientation. Keeping your enrollment active and following the conditions of your visa is important for maintaining your status. Students who wish to work part time generally need permission and must meet the conditions set by immigration.
How Near Korea Education supports your visa
Visa preparation is where careful guidance makes a real difference. Near Korea Education helps you verify your Certificate of Admission, organize and check every document, prepare your financial proof, and understand each step of the D-2 or D-4 process. Our experienced team helps you apply with confidence, reducing the risk of avoidable errors and delays, so your move to South Korea starts smoothly.