2025 Guide to Part-Time Employment Permits for Foreign Students (D-2) and General Trainees (D-4)

hello, Hello, I'm Kang Byeol, an intern writer for Jobploy, a foreign recruitment platform. If you live in Korea, you will often find yourself needing to get a new passport. Did you know that it's not enough to just get a new passport; you must also report any changes to your passport information to HiKorea? If there is a change in passport information, such as passport number, date of issuance, or expiration date, you must report it to the Immigration Office within 15 days from the date of issuance. It's a good idea to take care of it in advance, as you may be subject to a late fee if you miss the deadline. Today, I'll explain step-by-step how to change your passport information online on the Hi Korea website. 1. Access and log in to Hi Korea First, access 👉 www.hikorea.go.kr in your internet browser. After logging in, click on “Civil Complaint Application” → “Electronic Civil Complaint” in this order from the menu at the top of the screen. 2. Go to the e-petition menu When you click on ‘Apply for Civil Complaint’, you will automatically be taken to the electronic civil complaint screen. If you scroll down the screen a bit, you will see a menu called “Passport Change Report.” You can proceed with the application by clicking on the relevant menu. 3. Enter new passport information When you enter the application screen, basic information such as name and alien registration number will be automatically displayed. First, please check if this information is correct. Then, based on your newly issued passport, Passport number Date of issue Validity period (expiration date) Enter each one accurately. It is important to check carefully as not even a single letter can be different from the information written on your passport. 4. Attach a copy of your passport and complete the application. Finally, scan or take a picture of your passport's personal information page (the page with your photo) with your phone and attach it as a file. After double-checking that the file has been uploaded normally, if there are no problems, click the “Apply” button to complete the application. Just remember this Changes to passport information must be reported within 15 days of the passport issuance date. Failure to report may result in fines When extending a visa or changing your status of residence If your passport information is different, unnecessary problems may arise. If you have reissued your passport, we recommend that you update your information in this order: Hi Korea Report → Bank → Telecommunications Company . The process itself is not difficult, but when you're busy, it's easy to miss this administrative reporting. To avoid unnecessary problems later when extending your visa or changing your residence status, it is safest to take care of it in advance after reissuing your passport. Going forward, JobPloy will continue to provide essential visa, immigration, and administrative information for foreigners living in Korea. Please feel free to contact me anytime if you need any information 🙂

Hello, this is JOBPLOY, the NO.1 platform for recruiting foreigners. Today, we will learn about EPS-TOPIK, which is required for non-professional employment (E-9) in Korea. What is EPS-TOPIK? EPS-TOPIK (Employment Permit System - Test of Proficiency in Korean) is a nationally recognized test that evaluates the Korean language proficiency and understanding of Korean society of foreign job seekers who wish to work in Korea through the Employment Permit System. Unlike the general academic TOPIK, EPS-TOPIK focuses on ‘communication skills in industrial settings.’ division EPS-TOPIK General TOPIK Main purpose Obtaining a Non-Professional Employment (E-9) Visa and Finding a Job in Korea Study abroad, residence (F-2), permanent residence (F-5), general employment Host organization Human Resources Development Service of Korea (HRD Korea) National Institute for International Education (NIIED) Evaluation Areas Reading, Listening (2 sections) Reading, listening, writing (TOPIK II standard) Questions/Time 50 questions / 70 minutes TOPIK I: 70 questions, TOPIK II: 104 questions Full marks/pass 200 points (80 points or higher selected) 1~6 level grading system (TOPIK I = Level 1,2, TOPIK2 = Level 3,4,5,6) Eligibility Citizens of the 17 MOU-signing countries (ages 18-39) No restrictions (worldwide) 2026 Exam Implementation Information (Current Standard) Implementing countries (17 countries) As of 2026, it is implemented in 17 countries that have signed MOUs with South Korea for the dispatch of human resources. Asia: Vietnam, Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Myanmar, Nepal, Bangladesh, Kyrgyzstan, Timor-Leste, Laos, China, Tajikistan (including new ones) Eligibility and Fees Age: 18 to 39 years old Disqualification: Must not have a criminal record and must not have any record of illegal stay in Korea in the past. Exam Fee: $24 - $28 USD (varies by country, local currency payment accepted) Note: The test schedule may vary depending on the country's transmission quota, so be sure to check the official EPS-TOPIK website or the announcements from local transmission agencies (e.g., Philippines DMW, Vietnam EPS Center, etc.). Test structure and method Distribution of points by area area Number of questions Distribution of points hour category Reading 25 questions 100 points 40 minutes Multiple choice 4-option question Listening 25 questions 100 points 30 minutes Multiple choice 4-option question total 50 questions 200 points 70 minutes - Test method (CBT preferred) Recently, the EPS-TOPIK has been transitioning from paper-based testing (PBT) to computer-based testing (CBT) and mobile-based testing (UBT). You will take the test using a tablet or PC provided at the testing center. Jobploy Recommendations: Study Materials and Preparation Methods The EPS-TOPIK exam is based entirely on the "Standard Textbook" published by the Korea Human Resources Development Institute for Industry. The key to passing the exam is to familiarize yourself with the official materials, rather than relying on external, private textbooks. If you prepare in advance using the official materials provided by EPS TOPIK below, you can get a good score. Download the official standard textbook Access free textbooks in Korean and your local language. 💾 Download NEW Korean Standard Textbook 1 (Daily Life) 💾 Download NEW Korean Standard Textbook 2 (Workplace Life) 💾 NEW Korean Standard Textbook 1 Listening File 💾 NEW Korean Standard Textbook 2 Listening File Supplementary materials for self-study It is more effective when used together with standard textbooks. 👉🏻 View Korean for English Speakers 1 Ebook 💾 Download the Korean 1 Ebook for English Speakers 👉🏻 View the Korean for English Speakers 2 Ebook 💾 Download the Korean 2 Ebook for English Speakers Public problem book Get a feel for the real exam by solving past exam questions. The link below is to the 2025 Korean Language Proficiency Test open question booklet. Reading test 💾 Problem Book 1 Problem 💾 Workbook 2 Answers 💾 Problem Book 2 Problem 💾 Workbook 2 Answers listening test 💾 Problem book 1 problem     💾 Workbook 2 Answers 💾 Workbook 2 Problems    💾 Workbook 2 Answers Listening Problem Audio 💾 Download Audio 1 💾 Download Audio 2 Special Korean Language Proficiency Test Job Questions 👉🏻 Download Passing the EPS-TOPIK is the minimum qualification for employment in Korea. A higher score increases your chances of being listed at the top of job listings and selected by employers. Focus on studying the specialized "job terminology" for your desired industry, such as manufacturing or construction, in Volume 2 of the standard textbook. Use of mock exams Have you studied sufficiently using the standard textbook? You can test your skills with the mock exam below. 👉🏻 EPS-TOPIK Exam Online Mock Test The EPS-TOPIK isn't just a test to demonstrate your Korean language skills. It's the first step toward earning the right to work safely and confidently in a new environment like Korea. While mastering an unfamiliar language and culture can be challenging, if you rely on the government's official textbooks and prepare diligently, you'll undoubtedly achieve great results. Jobploy will always be there for you with the most accurate administrative information and sincere advice, ensuring your Korean dream becomes a tangible reality.

D-2 Student Visa Extension Guide: For Overtime Semesters and Graduate School Completion Students For all D-2 student visa holders studying in Korea, visa extension is the most important administrative procedure to maintain residency status. Especially if you have exceeded the regular semester or are preparing a thesis after completing graduate school, the review process will be more rigorous and additional documents may be required. The information below outlines the procedures and key points that students who have completed additional semesters and graduate programs must know when preparing for a visa extension. When and how to apply for a visa extension Application period: Applications can be made up to 4 months prior to the expiration date of your stay. Please note: Due to the surge in applications during late February and late August, processing times can be significantly delayed. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you complete your application at least 1-2 months before the deadline. How to apply: Apply online at HiKorea (fee is 50,000 won, 10,000 won cheaper, no need to make an appointment). Visa Extension Process and Key Documents by Type The "Academic Proof Documents" you need to prepare will vary depending on your circumstances. In addition to the common documents (passport, alien registration card, application form, proof of residence, and fees), be sure to review the documents listed below. [Type ①] Oversemester students (undergraduate and graduate students) If you have remaining credits beyond the regular semester completion period. Academic Excess Reason Form: You must write the reason why you were unable to graduate within the regular semester and obtain the signature of your advisor or department head. Course Enrollment Confirmation: Proof that you are taking classes to complete your remaining credits is required. Transcripts and Certificate of Enrollment: Extensions may be restricted if your grades in the previous semester were poor. [Type ②] Graduate student (thesis preparation student) This is the case when you have attended all classes but are staying for the purpose of reviewing or submitting a thesis. Research Fact Confirmation (Supervisor's Confirmation): This is a key document for extension of the degree program. It must clearly state the progress of the thesis, the upcoming review and submission schedule, and the expected graduation date. Reason for Delay in Thesis Guidance Schedule: If you have already extended your thesis preparation period but were unable to graduate, you will need a detailed explanation of the delay and confirmation from your professor. [Important] Financial Ability Review (Banking Certificate) These are the revised guidelines and practical considerations as of 2025. Balance Criteria: For universities in the Seoul metropolitan area, a minimum balance of approximately 5 to 7 million won is required (reflecting the minimum living expenses for a six-month period of intended stay). Proof: A domestic bank balance certificate issued within 30 days of the application date. Note: * Large sums of money (lump sums) deposited suddenly just before the issuance of a certificate may be subject to investigation. If any abnormal fund flow is discovered, it will be grounds for requesting submission of a 'transaction statement' and refusing extension. Proof of residence and other required confirmations Proof of Residence: A copy of the lease agreement is required. If the property is not in your name, you must submit a "Confirmation of Accommodation Provision," a copy of the provider's ID, and the contract for the property. Health Insurance: Visa extensions are strictly prohibited if you are behind on your National Health Insurance premiums. If you have any outstanding balances, please pay them before applying. Document Validity: All certificates must be valid for no more than one month from the date of issue . (Some rigorous review procedures may require an expiration date of 15 days.) 💡 Administrative Tips for International Students Check in advance: Be sure to check your university's International Student Support Center website to see if they have school-specific forms. Utilizing online application: After applying online to Hi Korea, you should check the progress on ‘My Page’ regularly and respond immediately when you receive a ‘ Request for supplementation ’ text message. Observe the deadline: If you apply after the expiration date, you will be subject to a late fee and, in severe cases, may be deported, so be sure to mark the date on your calendar. Common Document Checklist for D-2 Visa Extension Required documents for all international students division Required documents note Proof of identity Integrated Application Form (Appendix 34) Hi Korea Download Proof of identity Original and copy of passport Sufficient validity period Proof of identity Alien registration card Bring the original Proof of academic achievement Certificate of enrollment or completion Issued within 1 month Proof of academic achievement transcript previous semester Proof of finances Balance certificate About 5 to 7 million won in the metropolitan area Proof of residence Lease Agreement If it is not in your name, add a 'Confirmation of Provision of Residence' charge 50,000 to 60,000 won Online 50,000 won / In-person 60,000 won 💾 Download the integrated application form   💾 Download the Accommodation Provision Confirmation Additional submission documents by type Depending on your current academic status, you must additionally prepare the following documents. Target Additional documents Key Checkpoints regular semester students Certificate of tuition payment Check whether you are registered for the next semester Extra semester students Academic Excess Reason Statement Reasons for delayed graduation and future plans Extra semester students Course Registration Confirmation Expected credits graduate students Research Fact Confirmation Certificate Check the progress of your thesis and your advisor graduate students Reason for Postponement of thesis guidance schedule (If extended more than twice) Delay in graduation 💾 Download the thesis advisor confirmation letter *For thesis advisor confirmation letter, the school may have a separate form, so you must check with the international student service center. Final Checklist for Preparing Documents Validity: All certificates must be valid for no more than one month from the date of issue. (A recent bank statement is recommended.) Signature Verification: Please check that your advisor's handwritten signature or seal is not missing from the statement of purpose or confirmation. Health Insurance: If you have any delinquent national health insurance premiums, your visa extension will be denied. Online Application: When applying through Hi Korea , all documents must be scanned and uploaded (PDF/JPG). After completing your application: Please note that your visa may be canceled if you leave the country during the extension review period. ※ Required documents may vary depending on the school size, accreditation level, and guidelines of the competent immigration office. Please be sure to double-check with your university's international student center before applying. Extending your D-2 visa is not a simple administrative procedure; it is the most important gateway to continuing your studies and stay in Korea. Especially for students in extra semesters or those who have completed their studies, the key evaluation criteria are “why they have not graduated yet” and “whether their future plans are clear.” Please make sure to prepare your documents and schedule with plenty of time to spare, as your extension may be denied if you are not prepared. JobPloy provides accurate information and practical guidance to international students to ensure a smooth transition from their studies and stay in Korea to employment. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of extending your visa, prepare step by step with JobPloy.

Passion that Crosses Borders, Stepping on Korean Soil December 22, 2025, was an unforgettable day for the Jobploy team. We went to Incheon International Airport to welcome Eep Sanjaya, a talented Indonesian, to support her new life in Korea. We at Jobploy were thrilled to be a part of this precious moment, a turning point in someone's life. The fruit of three months of technical expertise and trust Ep was able to open the door to new opportunities in Korea through Jobploy. While finding employment abroad can feel daunting, Jobploy's multilingual service provided a solid guide. Thanks to this, we were able to overcome the barriers of the complex international recruitment market and perfectly match Eep's outstanding skills with the needs of Korean companies. What was most surprising was the speed. The entire process, including entry into Korea, was completed in just three months from the time I received my acceptance letter. I believe this was due to the synergy between Eep's outstanding capabilities and our team's systematic support. My first meal in Korea: beef radish soup Before we began our work in earnest, we enjoyed a cozy brunch with Eep at the airport. It was our long-awaited first meal on Korean soil. Eep chose the hearty and warm "Beef Radish Soup." She smiled brightly, saying she had a similar dish in Indonesia and that the rich Korean flavor suited her taste, warming the hearts of our team members. A master of 'gravure printing' with 16 years of experience Eep, now 39, is a true "printing master" with 16 years of experience, transcending his academic background. Although he never completed higher education, his skills, honed through years of hands-on experience, are more solid than anyone else's. He possessed unparalleled expertise, particularly in the field of gravure printing, having worked as an engineer leader in Indonesia and Vietnam. I believed that his sophisticated skills in handling high-speed printing machines would be a great asset to the new company he was joining. A responsible father of two children This is Mr. Ip Sanjaya's first visit to Korea, and as a husband and father of two, he feels a deep sense of responsibility towards his family as he approaches this challenge. The Jobploy team was deeply impressed by his genuine passion for work and the positive energy he brings to brighten up his surroundings. Eep's new home: Plus Pack in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province Eep took her precious first steps at Plus Pack, a solid printing company located in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province. This company boasts a solid scale, boasting annual sales of 10 billion won, which gave her added reassurance. More than anything, what gave our Jobploy team the greatest sense of security was the CEO's mindset. He not only always prioritized safety, but also embraced foreign workers with openness and warmth, without prejudice. With such a capable leader, I was confident that even Eep, who came from a foreign country, would feel comfortable and be able to fully demonstrate her capabilities. Our Jobploy team didn't just pick you up at the airport, they personally escorted you to your work location in Pocheon and conducted a thorough orientation. In the car, we shared practical knowledge and life tips essential for living in Korea to help them relax. After arriving at the company, we arranged a time for them to formally greet the HR and technical team leaders. As a fellow Korean, I provided detailed guidance on all aspects of work and daily life. I not only reviewed the machines and factory layouts Eep would be handling, but also meticulously covered everything from her future accommodations to where she would eat, helping her quickly adapt to the unfamiliar environment. Eep, whom I met on-site, was a true veteran with 16 years of experience. As soon as he encountered the machinery while touring the factory facilities, he immediately grasped the essence of his duties. He didn't just listen to the explanation, but also took the initiative to ask the plant manager detailed questions about his working style and how the machines were operated. It was a moment when his expertise as a gravure printing leader, traveling through Indonesia and Vietnam at the age of 39, shone through. 🏢 What kind of company is Plus Pack? → View company information The value created by Jobploy and a new beginning Eep's story reminds us why Jobploy does what it does. There's nothing more valuable than a passionate person encountering a life-changing opportunity, and that opportunity leading to the growth of a company. The sight of Eep excitedly inspecting the machines he would soon lead was the most moving moment for our team this week. Eep, we sincerely welcome you to Korea! We at Jobploy will be cheering you on until the very end as you embark on your new journey. Waiting for another success story Just as Eep and Plus Pack's beautiful journey began, Jobploy is leading the way in connecting companies with top talent overseas, transcending borders. Beyond simple document matching, we pride ourselves on meticulously caring for the entire process, from entry to on-site adaptation. If you're a global talent seeking new opportunities through employment in Korea, or a company looking to hire proven, top-tier international talent who can energize your business, don't hesitate to contact us. Jobploy will be your most reliable partner for success.

Have you ever felt lost about what to do when you first came to Korea?If so, don't worry and check out this guide!Open a mobile phone accountIf you're new to Korea, the first thing you'll need to prepare is a prepaid SIM card.If possible, we recommend purchasing it in advance before departure or activating it immediately at the airport upon arrival.At this time, it is important to secure a SIM card with a ‘Korean phone number’ rather than just using an eSIM.This is because most of the initial administrative procedures in Korea require a passport + a Korean mobile phone number.Typical situations where a Korean phone number is neededImmigration Office Visit ReservationMake an appointment at the Immigration Office to obtain an Alien Registration Card (formerly known as ARC)(Refer to HiKorea reservation system)banking businessWhen opening your first Korean bank account, you need to provide your own mobile phone number.How to activate a short-term prepaid SIM cardTelecommunication booths in the airportMajor telecommunications companies such as KT, SKT, and LG U+ are operating booths at Incheon Airport.Can be opened on siteAirport pickup after pre-orderBook online before departure and pick up at the airportRecommended to reduce waiting timeConvenience store purchasesSome convenience stores sell low-cost prepaid SIM cards.It is more reliable to visit a telecommunications company branch as it is not handled at all branches.Preparationpassportunlocked phone※ Be sure to check that your country's telecommunications company has not locked your area.Open a bank accountOnce you have a prepaid number, the next step is to open a Korean bank account .Many universities have partnerships with specific banks that issue cards that combine student ID and check card functionality.However, at the beginning of the semester, there may be a large number of applicants, so it may take a long time to issue the certificate.So, while waiting for a student check card, many people open a personal bank account first.Why is it a good idea to open a bank account quickly?In my personal experience, a bank account is also essential for switching from prepaid to postpaid.Additionally, not all banks allow foreigners to open accounts with just a passport and prepaid number, so you may need to visit multiple banks.Documents required to open a bank account (based on experience)passportHome country identification cardPrepaid mobile phone number in your nameProof of residence(Dormitory confirmation or lease agreement)Cash for initial deposit(Additional amount recommended to activate transportation card function)Until you receive your Alien Registration Card (Residence Card), your use of mobile or internet banking may be restricted, and you may need to use a teller's office or ATM for the time being.Prepaid → Postpaid SIM card conversionIn Korea, there are three major telecommunications companies: KT, SKT, and LG U+ , and there are also budget phone (MVNO) rate plans.While the budget phone uses the network of the major telecommunication companies,✔ Rates are about 50% cheaper✔ Short-term or no-contract plans availableIt is especially recommended for international students and foreigners because of its advantages.Requirements for Postpaid SIM Card ActivationpassportHome country identification cardAlien registration card (if already issued)Korean bank account (for automatic transfer)Opening locationDirectly operated telecommunications agency: Be sure to check if they offer a budget phone plan.Cell phone stores near universities: Experienced in serving foreigners and fluent in EnglishBank-linked MVNOs: Kookmin Bank, Woori Bank, etc.If you are planning a long-term stay, we strongly recommend switching from a prepaid SIM card to a postpaid plan .Postpaid plans are not only cost-effective, but are also crucial for identity verification.in koreabanking servicesKakaoTalkNAVERVarious online administrative servicesAll require a verified mobile phone number.🔔 Please rememberAfter receiving your alien registration cardbanknews agencyYou must update your personal information with your Alien Registration Card information on both sides.Once your mobile phone number and bank account are properly linked to your alien registration card, administrative procedures and daily life in Korea will become much more convenient.