Can I change from D-2 (study abroad) to another status of stay?

Yes, you can. But you must get permission to change your status of stay from the Ministry of Justice (법무부) before you start the activities of the new status¹.

Commonly chosen statuses (general examples)

• Job seeking (D-10-1): when you look for a job after graduation
• Specially designated activities (E-7): when you work in a professional job related to your major
• Residence (F-2-7, points-based talented person): when you meet the points requirement
• Marriage immigrant (F-6): when you marry a Korean citizen

Each status has different requirements, such as degree, income, points, and employment contract. Be sure to check the detailed requirements on HiKorea (하이코리아).

Application steps (general case)

1. Check the requirements and documents for the status you want.
2. Book a visit on HiKorea or apply through the e-application (전자민원).
3. The Immigration Office (출입국·외국인관서) with jurisdiction reviews your application.
4. Start the activities of the new status only after you receive permission.

Usually, you must apply before your current period of stay ends.

⚠️ Things to note

• If you do activities of another status (for example, regular employment) without permission, it is a violation of the law¹. In this case you pay a fine for a criminal offense (범칙금), not an administrative fine (과태료). This fine is money you pay instead of criminal punishment. It ranges from 500,000 won up to a maximum of 30,000,000 won, depending on the violation period².
• A change of status is decided by review. Applying does not always mean you will be approved.
• If your period of stay has already passed or you were denied, get a consultation from the K-VISA AI Administrative Agent (K-VISA AI 행정사) (Visa Service in the app).

For final confirmation, use HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the Foreigner Comprehensive Information Center (외국인종합안내센터) (1345).