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D-4 — General Training Visa (D-4)
South KoreaSouth Korea•Asia
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D-4 — General Training Visa (D-4)

Study

At a Glance

Processing Time

1–2 weeks

Estimated Cost

KRW ₩60,000

Stay Duration

2 years

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Official Information

Overview

Long-stay visa for language study at language institutes, vocational training, and other non-degree educational programs.

The D-4 General Training Visa is designed for individuals pursuing education or training that does not lead to a formal degree, including Korean language programs at language institutes, vocational training at specialized academies, and skill development at non-academic institutions. Applicants must demonstrate enrollment at a recognized training institution and provide a clear training plan.

The visa is typically issued for up to two years. Standard processing takes 7–14 days with a KRW 60,000 fee. Participants may work up to 10 hours per week part-time after six months with approval. Spouses cannot work independently. The visa is renewable and can be converted to other visa types such as D-2 or E-2.

This visa is ideal for language learners seeking to study Korean, professionals acquiring specialized skills through training programs, and individuals from abroad needing temporary residence for cultural immersion and personal development.

Stay & Extensions

Initial grant2 years

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

D-2 — Student Visa (D-2)
South Korea flagSouth Korea

D-2 — Student Visa (D-2)

Validity2 years
Processing1–3 weeks
View Visa Details
E-2 — Foreign Language Instructor Visa (E-2)
South Korea flagSouth Korea

E-2 — Foreign Language Instructor Visa (E-2)

Validity1–2 years (matches employment contract), renewable
Processing2–4 weeks
View Visa Details

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must be enrolled in a training program at an institution other than a university-level degree program (e.g., language institutes, specialized academies).

Must have a valid acceptance letter from the training institution.

Must demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (typically 8-10 million KRW depending on location).

Must be at least a high school graduate.

Must not have a history of visa rejection or illegal stay in South Korea.

Must be enrolled in a program of at least 6 months (for language training).

KEY CRITERIA

Education

high_school or higher

Min. Savings

10,000,000 KRW

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Visa application form

Valid passport

Passport-sized photograph

Standard Admission Letter from the training institution

Copy of the institution's business registration certificate

Proof of highest level of education (diploma/transcripts)

Proof of financial ability (bank statement, scholarship letter, or transaction history)

Training plan (including timetable and instructor details)

Family relation certificate (if using parents' financial documents)

Visa application fee

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Accessible entry for non-degree education — no bachelor's requirement
  • Renewable multi-year stay — up to 2 years per renewal
  • Affordable application fee of just KRW 60,000 (~USD 60)
  • Fast processing time of 7–14 days at embassy
  • Flexible training options — language schools, vocational, or specialized skills
  • Part-time work allowed after 6 months (up to 10 hrs/week with approval)
  • Lower financial threshold than D-2 degree visa
  • Official pathway to establish South Korean language foundation

Worth Knowing

  • Spouse cannot work independently — must obtain separate visa authorization
  • Limited work authorization capped at 10 hours/week after 6-month waiting period
  • Non-immigrant pathway — does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship
  • Financial proof required (8–10 million KRW) though lower than university programs
  • Requires confirmed program enrollment before visa application
  • Not a pathway to permanent residence or employment-based immigration
  • Dependent visa not available — family members must apply separately

Application Process

1

Enroll in program

Language school, vocational training, etc.

2

Obtain enrollment letter

From training institution

3

Apply at embassy

D-4 visa application

4

Visa processing

7-14 days

5

Visa issuance

Training visa granted

Application Forms

D-4 General Trainee Visa Application—

Related visas

Study visas in other countries

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