South Korea, which reached its goal of 300,000 international students in mid-2025, now aims for up to 400,000. On 7 October 2026 the Ministry of Justice announced new visa rules that reward students who learn Korean.
What changes
Proof of funds: most students who reach TOPIK Level 4 or KIIP Level 4 no longer have to prove their financial means for a study visa.
Deposit for some applicants: students judged at high risk of overstaying, or of putting work before study, must deposit money for living costs for a set period.
Part-time work: permission to work depends on at least TOPIK Level 3 and on academic results.
After graduation: graduates can stay one to three years, depending on their Korean level and job preparation.
Alumni visa: a planned visitor visa for graduates in science, engineering, manufacturing and technical fields would help them keep ties to Korea, with priority for the E-7 skilled worker visa if they meet the language requirements.
Good to know
Korean universities offer more than 1,000 English-taught departments at over 70 universities. Reaching TOPIK Level 4 usually takes at least a couple of years of intensive study, so the new benefits favour students who start learning Korean early.
Key points
- TOPIK or KIIP Level 4 removes the proof-of-funds requirement for most students.
- Part-time work requires at least TOPIK Level 3 and good grades.
- Graduates can stay 1–3 years depending on Korean skills and job preparation.
- High-risk applicants may have to place a living-expense deposit.
Planning to study in Korea, even in English? Start Korean early: a TOPIK certificate now saves paperwork and opens work and post-study options.
Source
- South Korea introduces new incentives for foreign students to develop Korean language skillsICEF Monitor · Oct 28, 2026
Written by the Study and Work Abroad team in our own words from the sources above. Rules change often: before you apply, ask us to check the current rules for your case.
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