The D-2 visa is the standard student visa for Nepali students enrolling in full degree programs (bachelor's, master's, or PhD) at accredited Korean universities. Unlike some countries with online visa applications, the Korean visa process is handled directly at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kathmandu.
The process is relatively straightforward compared to countries like Australia or the USA, but the documentation requirements are strict — particularly around financial proof and document authentication. This guide walks you through every step so you know exactly what to prepare.
If you are still deciding whether South Korea is right for you, start with our complete guide to studying in South Korea from Nepal.
D-2 Visa Categories
The D-2 visa has several subcategories depending on your program level:
| Category | Program Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| D-2-1 | Associate Degree | 2 years |
| D-2-2 | Bachelor's Degree | 4 years |
| D-2-3 | Master's Degree | 2-3 years |
| D-2-4 | Doctoral Degree | 3-5 years |
| D-2-6 | Exchange Student | 1 year |
Note: If you are coming for Korean language training only (not a degree program), you would apply for the D-4 visa instead. The D-2 is specifically for enrolled degree students.
Required Documents
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Machine Readable Passport (MRP) | Issued by Government of Nepal, valid for at least 6 months |
| Certificate of Admission | From the Korean university |
| Academic Credentials | Apostille or Korean Embassy confirmed |
| Transcripts | Official transcripts from all previous institutions |
| Financial Statement | KRW 20,000,000 (incl. tuition) for minimum 28 days |
| Study Plan | Written statement explaining your study goals |
| TB Test Certificate | Nepal is on Korea's required list |
| Passport Photographs | Recent, Korean visa specification |
| Language Proficiency | TOPIK for Korean programs; IELTS/TOEFL for English programs |
Critical requirement: All Nepali documents must be translated into English and notarized. Academic credentials must be either apostilled through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or confirmed by the Korean Embassy in Kathmandu. Many students underestimate the time this takes — start at least 4-6 weeks before your intended submission date.
Financial Requirements
The financial proof requirement for the D-2 visa is specific and strict:
- Amount: KRW 20,000,000 (approximately NPR 20.4 Lakh) including tuition
- Duration: Funds must be in the account for a minimum of 28 consecutive days
- Bank statement: Must be recent and clearly show the required balance
- Source of funds: Clear documentation of fund source (parent income, savings, loan)
At the current exchange rate of approximately NPR 102 per 1,000 KRW, the KRW 20,000,000 requirement translates to roughly NPR 20.4 Lakh. This is significantly lower than the financial requirements for Australia, UK, or New Zealand.
TOPIK Language Requirements
Your language requirement depends on whether you are enrolling in a Korean-taught or English-taught program:
| Program Language | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Korean-taught programs | TOPIK Level 2-3+ (varies by university) |
| English-taught programs | IELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL equivalent |
| GKS/KGSP scholars | Must achieve TOPIK Level 3 before degree start |
Tip: Even if you plan to study in English, having a TOPIK score gives you a significant advantage. It earns 5-10% preference points in KGSP applications and may qualify you for additional tuition discounts at many universities. Learning Korean also dramatically improves your part-time job prospects and daily life in Korea.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Research and apply to Korean universities: Apply directly to Korean universities or through the GKS/KGSP scholarship. Many universities have online application portals. Check intake periods — most Korean universities have 2 intakes per year (March and September).
- Receive your Certificate of Admission: Once accepted, your university issues a Certificate of Admission — the core document for your visa.
- Apostille your academic documents: Get your academic credentials (SLC/SEE, +2, bachelor's, master's as applicable) apostilled through Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs or confirmed by the Korean Embassy. This process takes 2-4 weeks.
- Prepare financial proof: Ensure KRW 20,000,000 has been in your bank account for at least 28 days. Get an official bank statement.
- Get the TB test: Visit a designated medical facility for the tuberculosis test certificate.
- Translate and notarize documents: All Nepali documents must be translated into English by a certified translator and notarized.
- Submit at the Korean Embassy: Visit the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kathmandu with all documents. Submit your application and pay the visa fee.
- Wait for processing: D-2 visa processing takes 2-4 weeks. You may be called for an interview.
Timeline for Nepali Students
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| University application | 2-6 weeks |
| Document apostille and translation | 2-4 weeks |
| Financial proof preparation | 4+ weeks (28-day requirement) |
| Visa processing | 2-4 weeks |
| Total | 10-18 weeks (roughly 3-5 months) |
After Arriving in South Korea
- Alien Registration Card (ARC): Register at the local immigration office within 90 days of arrival. Your ARC is your ID in Korea.
- Bank account: Open a Korean bank account for daily transactions and receiving scholarship payments.
- Part-time work permission: Apply for activity permission from immigration before starting any part-time work.
- Health insurance: All international students must have Korean national health insurance (NHIS).
Next Steps
- KGSP/GKS Scholarship — fully funded scholarship guide
- South Korean universities — SNU, KAIST, Yonsei, Korea University
- Complete South Korea guide — costs, work rights, and post-study options