Hello,
This is Hyunsik Ko from KOWORK. 😀
Today, I would like to guide you through a topic that many international students and job seekers often ask about:
Proof of Financial Capability (“Living Expenses”) when applying for or extending a D-10 visa.
💡 Why do I need to submit proof of financial capability when applying for or extending a D-10 visa?
When you change your visa status from a Student Visa (D-2) or a Korean Language Training Visa (D-4) to a Job-Seeker Visa (D-10), or when you extend your current D-10 visa,
Korean Immigration Office requires you to prove your ability to financially support yourself while staying in Korea.
The most common document used for this purpose is a bank balance certificate. However, many applicants are often unsure about the exact amount that needs to be deposited.
Q. “How much money do I need to keep in my bank account?”
The required amount is calculated based on the formula:
(Annual Housing Benefit Standard for a 1-person household) × (Number of Months of Stay)
As of 2025, the monthly standard amount for a 1-person household is 1,148,166 KRW.
Since the D-10 visa is granted in 6-month periods, you need to have at least:
1,148,166 KRW × 6 months = 6,888,996 KRW
📌 Note:
- The funds must actually be in your bank account on the date of your application.
- It is recommended to submit a balance certificate issued within the past week.
However, applicants who fall under the following Exemption Categories are not required to submit proof of financial capability:
✅ Exemption Categories (Point System Waivers)
- First-time applicants changing from Student Visa (D-2) to Job-Seeker Visa (D-10)
Korean university graduates with outstanding Korean language proficiency
Holders of one of the following:
- Valid TOPIK Level 4 or above certificate
- KIIP intermediate level completion certificate
- KIIP Preliminary test (pre-evaluation) score of 81 points or higher
That concludes today’s explanation on the financial capability (living expenses) requirement for the D-10 visa.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact KOWORK!
📩 E-mail: hyunsik@kowork.kr
📞 Tel: 02-6951-4108
