How many hours per week am I legally allowed to work?

You may work up to 30 hours per week as a D‑2 (student) or D‑4 (general training) visa holder, with no extra unlimited weekend or holiday allowance permitted; apply for part‑time work permission before starting any job. Full details below.

Details

• Legal baseline – The Foreigner Employment System regulations set a 30‑hour weekly limit for part‑time employment of D‑2/D‑4 visa holders【3†L1-L3】.

• Eligibility requirements

• Hold a valid D‑2 (student) or D‑4 (general training) visa.
• Obtain prior part‑time work permission from the local immigration office (or university International Office)【1†L4-L9】.
• Meet the minimum Korean language proficiency (e.g., TOPIK Level 2 or higher)【5†L12-L15】.

• Application steps

1. Gather required documents: employment contract, business registration copy, Part‑Time Work Confirmation Form (signed by employer and university), transcript, GPA ≥ C, and official TOPIK score if needed【2†L9-L20】.
2. Submit the application via your university’s portal (e.g., KUPID) and then to the immigration office【2†L21-L28】.
3. Receive the permission sticker or online approval before commencing work【4†L13-L18】.

• Working‑hour record – Keep a log of hours to ensure you do not exceed 30 hours per week; violations can lead to penalties, including possible deportation【3†L44-L48】.

• If you exceed the limit or are denied permission

• File a complaint with the local Labor Office (call 1350).
• Seek free legal aid for foreign students (call 132).

• Hotlines for assistance

• Immigration inquiries: 1345
• Labor issues (hour disputes, illegal employment): 1350
• Legal aid for foreign students: 132
• Multicultural foreign‑worker counseling: 1577‑0071