Eligibility for the D-10-1 Job-Seeking Visa falls into two major categories: the points-based system and the special exemption (non-points) track. First check whether you qualify for an exemption or whether your points are sufficient, then prepare your documents accordingly.
The D-10 visa allows qualified foreigners to legally stay in Korea while seeking employment. It is especially relevant for international students who graduated from Korean universities and high-potential overseas professionals.
D-10-1 applicants are classified as either (1) points-based or (2) exemption (special-case) applicants.
If you hold at least a bachelor’s degree (or at least a college/associate degree from a Korean institution), you may apply through the points system.
▪ Passing score: 60+ points out of a total 190
▪ Mandatory requirement: secure at least 20 points in the basic category (age, education, etc.)
If you meet any one of the conditions below, you may apply without complex point calculations.
A. First-time D-10 after graduating from a Korean university First-time change to D-10 after obtaining a Korean associate degree or higher (D-2 background) (If within 1 year after graduation, you may apply even while outside Korea).
B. Korean-university graduate with strong Korean proficiency Graduated within the last 3 years (associate degree or higher) or Holds TOPIK 4+ or passed KIIP Level 4 midterm (or assigned to Level 5)
C. Global promising talent (overseas university graduates) Age 29 or under, and within the last 3 years, holds a bachelor’s degree from a university ranked Top 200 in THE or QS, or Majored in Korean Studies and holds TOPIK Level 6
D. Others ▪ Has professional occupation work experience (only eligible via status change while holding a visa in Korea) ▪ Seeks an internship at a foreign mission in Korea |
Q: If I graduated from an overseas university, am I always subject to the points system?
Not necessarily. If you are 29 or under and graduated from a Top 200 global university, you may apply under the “promising talent” exemption without points. Otherwise, you must apply under the points system (60+ points)
Q: I graduated from a Korean university 5 years ago—can I still get an exemption?
It is difficult. The “Korean proficiency” exemption generally requires graduation within 3 years, and if you have previously received D-10, the “first-time job-seeker” exemption does not apply. In this case, prepare under the points system.
Q: Does the exemption continue at the time of extension?
No. Even if you received an exemption for the initial application, extensions typically apply the points system. Managing your points during your job-search period is important!
Q: Why can professional-experience holders only change status (not obtain a new visa from overseas)?
This category targets professionals already legally staying in Korea, so it generally does not apply to new issuance from abroad.
💼 Related information
Internship conditions under D-10
