Part-time work rules for students

Students (D-2, D-4) must obtain permission before taking any part-time work.

The basic rules

1. A part-time work permit is required. Working without one is an out-of-status activity violation.
2. There are limits on permitted hours, which can differ between term time and holidays.
3. Some sectors are not permitted — entertainment venues and similar are prohibited.
4. Korean ability or academic requirements sometimes apply.
5. If your workplace changes, you must check again.

Hours, sectors and requirements change often. Always confirm current rules with 1345 and your university's international office.

Steps (outline)

1. Ask your university's international office. A confirmation or recommendation is often needed.
2. Apply through HiKorea or an immigration office.
3. Start work only after permission is granted.
4. Get an employment contract and check the terms. See employment-contract.

While working

• Never exceed the permitted hours. It is recorded.
• Be paid at least the minimum wage — it applies to students too. See minimum-wage.
• Get a payslip. See payslip.
• Injuries are covered by industrial accident insurance. See industrial-accident-basics.
• Keep up your studies. Poor attendance or grades affect your residence status.

Where to go

• 1345 Immigration Contact Centre (permit requirements)
• Your university's international office
• HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr
• 1350 Ministry of Employment and Labour (wages and conditions)
• 1588-0075 Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service

Questions people ask

What happens if I work without permission? It can lead to penalties, cancellation of status and even deportation for out-of-status activity. Always get permission first. See illegal-work-risks.

I went slightly over the hours. Consult 1345 immediately. Leaving it alone is the worst option.

I wasn't paid. Regardless of the permit, you have a right to wages for work done. Consult 1350.

Can I work somewhere other than the permitted place? A fresh check or application may be needed. Ask 1345.

Take care

"They don't enforce it against students" is untrue. Unauthorised work keeps causing problems later — when changing to a work status after graduation, or in permanent residence and naturalisation assessments. Don't lose years of planning over a few months of part-time work.

Related

part-time-work-permit-students · illegal-work-risks · d2-student-visa · minimum-wage · part-time-rights

Source

Ministry of Justice, HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr / As of 2026-08