Published: 07.10.2026
South Korea’s Justice Ministry plans to waive separate proof-of-funds requirements for students with TOPIK Level 4 or equivalent Korean-language qualifications and expand a study-funds deposit system for higher-risk groups. The package also proposes simpler part-time work permits, a new gap-year track, differentiated D-10 job-seeking stays, and pathways from study to E-7 work visas and long-term residence.
According to the sources, South Korea is preparing a package that would make entry and early employment easier for students with stronger Korean skills while increasing scrutiny of financial capacity and unauthorized work. Future students may face less paperwork if they meet the language threshold, while applicants from certain higher-risk groups or programs may need to place study funds in a designated deposit. Graduates could receive a more flexible D-10 job-seeking period, and science and engineering students could have a clearer route to E-7 work status and long-term residence. The development is especially worth watching for people planning to study and then work in South Korea, as some measures still require further government coordination.