South Korea Job Seeker D-10 in 2026

D-10 is a preparatory status used for eligible job-search or startup-preparation activity. It is not the same as the work status a person needs after taking a qualifying full-time Korean position.

D-10-1 job seeking

For eligible graduates of Korean universities, the Ministry of Justice expanded the job-search period effective in late 2025.

The reform changed the framework from extensions of six months with a maximum two-year period to one-year extensions with a maximum of up to three years for the covered graduate group.

That is a maximum, not an automatic three-year grant for every applicant.

Internship rules also changed

The same reform made internships more flexible for the covered job seekers:

  • the previous total internship-duration cap was removed; and
  • the maximum internship period with one company increased from six months to one year.

Internship activity still has to fit the D-10 rules. The reform does not turn D-10 into unrestricted employment permission.

D-10 to E-7

A person who finds a qualifying professional job normally needs to change to the appropriate employment status, such as E-7, before performing work outside the D-10 scope.

The E-7 occupation, qualifications, employer and wage requirements remain separate.

D-10-2 startup preparation

D-10-2 is a startup-preparation category and should not be confused with D-10-1 general job seeking.

The Global Startup Center states that OASIS programs support prospective founders working toward both D-10-2 and Technology Startup D-8-4. D-10-2 can provide preparation time, but it is not itself the final D-8-4 startup operation status.

Compare Startup Visa D-8-4.

Overseas promising-talent exceptions

Ministry of Justice materials also describe special treatment for certain overseas promising-talent groups, including exemptions or points advantages within D-10-1 and later E-7 assessment. These are targeted programs, not a general rule for every applicant.

Evidence and eligibility

D-10 eligibility can depend on education, current status, points or special exemptions, financial evidence and the precise activity proposed. Applicants should confirm the current HiKorea/immigration-office checklist for their situation.

Not a permanent-residence status

D-10 is temporary and preparatory. Time and activity under D-10 do not by themselves guarantee F-5 permanent residence.

For Korean graduates, see Student to Work. Return to the Korea hub.

Verified against Ministry of Justice and Global Startup Center material on 20 September 2026.

Official and supporting sources

Related routes in Korea, Republic of