When can I apply to extend my D-10 job-seeking stay period, and what documents do I need?

You can apply to extend your D-10 from 4 months before your stay period ends until the end date. If you apply before it expires, you can stay while you wait, even if the result comes late. The documents differ by D-10 sub-type (D-10-1, D-10-2, D-10-3).

Prepare these documents

The basic documents (application form, passport, registration card, fee) are the same for all types.

General job seeking (D-10-1), points-system applicants

• Job-seeking activity plan (구직활동계획서): include your job-seeking activities for the past 6 months and your future plans
• Proof of living expenses: such as a bank balance certificate showing at least 'the yearly housing benefit standard amount for a 1-person household × number of months of stay'
• Documents accepted as needed for the points-system evaluation: these are for scoring
• Proof of residence

General job seeking (D-10-1), special cases exempt from the points system

• Korean-proficient graduates of Korean universities submit a job-seeking activity plan, a valid TOPIK Level 4 or higher score report (or a Social Integration Program mid-level test pass certificate, or a pre-test score of 81 or higher), and proof of residence. Proof of living expenses is exempt.
• People with work experience in professional occupations (E-1 to E-7) submit a job-seeking activity plan, proof of living expenses, and proof of residence.

Technology startup preparation (D-10-2)

• Technology startup activity plan: include your activities for the past 6 months and your future plans
• Proof of living expenses: exempt for K-Startup Grand Challenge participants
• Proof of residence

Advanced technology intern (D-10-3)

• Certificate of employment as an intern
• Business registration certificate, data on research facilities and research staff, and list of employment insurance subscribers
• Documents proving the inviting company keeps its eligibility
• Internship activity plan: include your activities for the past 6 months and your future plans
• Proof of living expenses: if you receive an intern salary, a salary payment statement can replace it
• Proof of residence

How to apply

1. Prepare your documents between 4 months before expiry and the expiry date.
2. Apply online at HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr), or visit the immigration office with jurisdiction over your address (출입국·외국인관서).
3. The stay period extension fee is 60,000 KRW. Online, you can pay by card, bank transfer, or mobile phone payment. For visits, you usually pay with revenue stamps.

Permitted period (the period you get each time)

• D-10-1 points-system applicants: With a total score of 80 or more, you can stay up to 3 years, and you get 1 year at a time. With 60 to 79 points, you can stay up to 1 year, and you get 6 months at a time.
• Special case for people with work experience in professional occupations (E-1 to E-7): Up to 1 year, and you get 6 months at a time.
• D-10-3, D-10-T: Up to 3 years, and you get 1 year at a time.

⚠️ Things to watch out for

• The maximum stay period is added up within your time in Korea. If you leave Korea completely, get a visa, and enter again, it is counted anew.
• If you have unpaid health insurance premiums, your permitted period may be shortened to 6 months or less. Pay in advance and keep the receipt.
• The living expense standard amount changes every year. Check that year's amount before you apply.

If you tell me your D-10 type, I can give you more specific guidance for that type. Please check the exact details once more with HiKorea or 1345.