If you are going to be a
language student in Korea for more than 3 months (one term), you would need to obtain a D4(1) Visa. It takes about a week from the date of application to get the visa on your passport (it could be faster or slower depending on the number of applicants). You have to enter Korea within 3 months, and you will be given an extra month to settle into the country, look for accommodation, take the placement test etc.
You can either print out the application form from the website:
http://sgp.mofa.go.kr/english/as/sgp/visa/issuance/index.jsp
or get a copy at the embassy. There is also a photocopier and photo booth for use.
Be prepared to wait up to 4 hours from the time you submit your documents to the time your number gets called for a general evaluation of your suitability for a visa. The waiting time for visa collection is shorter. I waited less than 2 hours.
Bring along:
Certificate of admission from the university in Korea
2 passport sized color photos (3.5 x 4.5 cm)
Visa application form
Passport with more than 6 months validity
Updated bank book with a balance of more than $2500
Cash (check the website for the updated fees)
Embassy Of The Republic Of Korea
Consular Section: 47 Scotts Road
#16-03, 04, Goldbell Towers,
Singapore 228233
9 AM to 11:30 AM, Mondays to Fridays
(Second building beside Newton MRT)
Click
here to read about what I love about living in Seoul.
Click
here to read about what I hate about living in Seoul.
Click
here to read about applying for an Alien Registration Card in Seoul.
Click
here to read about studying the Korean language at Hankuk University and Sogang University.