Introduction

A South Korean internship visa allows foreign students and graduates to participate in internships in South Korea for a specified period. This visa allows interns to gain work experience, improve their language skills, and immerse themselves in the culture of South Korea. This article will provide an overview of the South Korean internship visa and the steps involved in obtaining it.

Eligibility

The following requirements must be met to be eligible for a South Korean internship visa:

• The applicant must be enrolled in a university or have graduated within the last year.
• The internship must be related to the applicant’s field of study.
• The internship must be arranged by a government-approved organization or a company registered with the Ministry of Justice.
• The internship must not be related to religious, entertainment, or sports activities.
• The intern must have sufficient funds to cover their expenses during their stay in South Korea.

Application Process

The application process for a South Korean internship visa involves the following steps:

1. Obtain an internship offer from a government-approved organization or a company registered with the Ministry of Justice.
2. Complete the visa application form and gather the required documents, including a valid passport, a letter of enrollment or graduation, an internship acceptance letter, and proof of financial support.
3. Submit the visa application and supporting documents to the South Korean embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country.
4. Attend an interview at the embassy or consulate if required.
5. Wait for the visa to be processed. Processing times may vary depending on the embassy or consulate.

Visa Validity and Extension

The South Korean internship visa is valid for up to six months. If the intern wishes to extend their stay, they must apply for an extension at the local immigration office in South Korea at least 15 days before the visa’s expiration date. The extension is granted on a case-by-case basis and depends on the intern’s situation and the internship’s length.

FAQs

Q: Can I work part-time while on a South Korean internship visa?

A: Yes, interns can work part-time up to 20 hours per week during their stay in South Korea.

Q: Do I need to provide proof of medical insurance?

A: Yes, interns must provide proof of medical insurance that covers their entire stay in South Korea.

Q: What happens if my internship is cancelled after I’ve received the visa?

A: If the internship is cancelled, the intern must leave South Korea within 30 days of the internship’s termination date.

Q: Can I travel to other countries while on a South Korean internship visa?

A: Yes, interns may travel outside of South Korea and return to South Korea without affecting their visa status.

Q: How long does it take to process a South Korean internship visa?

A: Processing times may vary depending on the embassy or consulate, but it typically takes one to two months.