Studying abroad in Korea is not only a learning journey but also an opportunity to accumulate work experience, improve income and integrate into local life. However, not all international students understand the legal registration process for part-time jobs in Korea. In this article, we will guide you in detail on the conditions, procedures and important notes to start a part-time job safely and legally.
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1. Where can international students register to work part-time?
There are many sources of information to find part-time jobs in Korea, through many different channels and methods. For D2/D4 students, the fastest way to register for part-time jobs in Korea is to go to the Immigration Office to register or through the Hi Korea website.
2. Procedure for registering to work part-time in Korea
International students who wish to work part-time in Korea must follow a clear and legal process. First, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, such as holding a D-2 or D-4-1 visa, maintaining satisfactory academic performance, and having no violations of residence regulations. The process of applying for part-time work permission in Korea consists of just four steps:
- Sign a labor contract with your prospective employer;
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Obtain your school’s signature on the part-time job confirmation form;
- Apply for a permit at the Immigration Office or online via Hi Korea;
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Receive the confirmation stamp on your passport or part-time work permit.
3. Required Documents to Apply for Part-time Work
To legally work part-time while studying in Korea, international students must prepare the necessary documents and submit an application to the Immigration Office. The required documents include:
- Part-time job application form (신청서);
- Passport (여권);
- Alien registration card (외국인등록);
- Confirmation of part-time employment form (시간제 취업 확인서);
- Transcript/Attendance record;
- Korean language certificate (TOPIK/KIIP/KSI);
- A copy of the business registration certificate of the workplace;
- Labor contract;
- Confirmation form for compliance with part-time work regulations.
4. Regulations on Working Hours for International Students
In Korea, the allowed working hours for international students are clearly regulated depending on the type of study program and Korean language proficiency. According to the Immigration Office, students may only work during specified hours and must strictly comply to avoid visa violations.
Program Type | Year of Study | Korean Language Level | Permitted Hours/Week |
---|---|---|---|
Language Program | Below TOPIK 2 | 10 hours | |
TOPIK 2 or higher | 20 hours | ||
Undergraduate | 1st, 2nd | Below TOPIK 3 | 10 hours |
TOPIK 3 or higher | 25 hours | ||
3rd, 4th | Below TOPIK 4 | 10 hours | |
TOPIK 4 or higher | 25 hours | ||
College Program | Below TOPIK 3 | 10 hours | |
TOPIK 3 or higher | 25 hours |
* Note: On weekends and holidays, college and university students may work unlimited hours.
Important Notes
- Do not exceed the permitted working hours;
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You may only work at the location registered in your application;
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Jobs in sensitive industries such as bars, karaoke lounges, nightclubs, or massage parlors are strictly prohibited;
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If you change your workplace, you must re-register with the Immigration Office.
Conclusion
Part-time jobs in Korea offer many benefits, but they also come with clear legal responsibilities. Understanding the application process and following the rules will help you work legally, safely, and effectively throughout your study abroad journey.
For more information on studying and working in Korea, please contact:
C-KOREA CULTURE & STUDY ABROAD CONSULTING CO., LTD
- Address: 5th Floor, 94–96 Nguyen Van Thuong Street, Ward 25, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hotline: +84 28 7308 4247
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/duhochanquocckorea/
- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@duhoc_ckorea
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Duhoc_ckorea