Immigration Control
D10 visa
job seeker visa
1. Definition of D10 Visa
The D10 visa is for foreign professionals who wish to pursue training or job search for employment at domestic companies.
Seeking employment in a field corresponding to professional qualifications from Professor (E-1) to Special Activity (E-7), or,
This is for those who are preparing to start a technology business.
2. Practical overview and requirements
1. Legal basis
Article 10 of the Immigration Control Act and Appendix 1 of the Enforcement Decree of the same Act
Ministry of Justice Job Application (D-10) Qualification Point System Application Guidelines
2. Key Requirements
D-10 visas are issued on a points-based system.
You must obtain a certain number of points out of a total of 190 points and meet the basic requirements for each item.
Point system components
Basic items: Age, highest level of education (maximum 50 points)
Optional: Domestic work experience, Domestic study abroad experience, Korean language proficiency (up to 110 points)
Bonus points: Graduates from prestigious domestic or international universities, experience working at a global company, master's or doctoral degrees in science or engineering, etc. (up to 30 points)
Passing Criteria: 60 points or more out of 190 points (but must score at least 20 points in the basic items)
3. Type
D-10 visas are broadly classified into two types depending on their purpose.
General Job Search (D-10-1)
Foreigners who wish to find professional employment in Korea
Graduates of domestic universities or those with experience at top 500 global companies, etc.
Technology Startup Preparation (D-10-2)
A person with a bachelor's degree or higher who possesses intellectual property rights or equivalent technical skills
Participants in the Technology Entrepreneurship Education Program (OASIS), etc.
4. Issuance period and required documents
Duration
It usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks from the date of application, but this may vary depending on the workload of the immigration office in charge.
Key submission documents
Integrated application form and passport copy
1 standard size photo
Job Search Plan (Specific Plan for the Next 6 Months)
Degree certificate (if applicable, Apostille or consular verification required)
Certificate of employment (if applicable)
Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) score report or social integration program completion certificate
Proof of residence (lease agreement, etc.)
Deposit balance certificate (for proof of stay expenses)
3. Visa issuance procedures
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1Counseling and qualification diagnosis
Check score calculation and issuance possibility
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2Prepare documents
Prepare a list of documents tailored to each applicant and proceed with notarization/certification.
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3Application acceptance
Apply at the immigration office in your jurisdiction (reservation required)
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4Review and supplement
Review of job search plan by immigration officials and submission of additional documents if necessary
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5Visa issuance
Upon approval, residence status is granted or changed.
Why you need an immigration specialist
The D10 visa is not just about submitting documents,
This is a process in which you must logically prove your abilities in accordance with the scoring system guidelines.
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1. Calculating accurate scores
If the score you calculated is different from the actual score for immigration, you may be denied admission.
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2. Write a job search plan
The key to obtaining approval is the creation of a practical and concrete plan.
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3. Ensuring the credibility of documents
We provide one-stop support for translation, notarization, and apostille procedures for overseas documents.
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4. Minimize the risk of rejection
Prevents the occurrence of supplementary documents in advance in accordance with recently strengthened screening criteria.
The first step for foreigners to settle in Korea is
It starts with obtaining the right visa.
Seum Administrative Law Firm is based on numerous successful cases.
So that the client's career is not interrupted
We will show you a clear path.
Beyond simple document processing,
We will be your partner in realizing your dreams in Korea.
If you are having trouble with visa issues
Talk to a Seum expert right now.
January 3, 2026
Seum Administrative Attorney Firm
Written by: Sangyoon Kim, Administrative Scrivener
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I change my D-2 (student) visa to D-10 immediately after it expires?
A: Yes, domestic university graduates or those who are expected to graduate can change their scores if they meet the score requirements.
Q: Can I work part-time with a D-10 visa?
A: In principle, for-profit activities are restricted, but internships related to your major or part-time employment with prior approval may be permitted.
Q: How many times can I extend my visa?
A: It is extended in basic 6-month units, and the maximum stay is 3 years.
However, proof of job search activities for the past 6 months is very important for each extension.