Asylum seekers and humanitarian stay permit holders can enroll in Korean university language programs, undergraduate programs, and graduate programs while keeping their current residence status (G-1). In the past, many people who had already received an admission offer could not actually enroll because they did not hold a student visa (D-2). That barrier is now gone.

Who does this apply to?

This applies to the following people:

  • Asylum seekers (holders of G-1-5 residence status)
  • Humanitarian stay permit holders (holders of G-1-6 residence status)
  • Children born in Korea to parents in either of the above categories

Enrollment process

Step 1: Receive an admission offer from a university

If you are a foreign national legally staying in Korea with G-1 residence status, you may apply to a university or graduate school. Each institution decides independently whether to admit you, so contact the admissions office of the school you are interested in and follow their application process.

Step 2: Enroll directly, no extra permit needed

To take up paid work, you would normally need a separate “permission to engage in activities outside your residence status” from the Korea Immigration Service. However, enrolling in and attending university does not require this extra permission. You can attend language program, undergraduate, or graduate classes while keeping your G-1 status exactly as it is.

If your G-1 status expires or is cancelled

If your G-1 status lapses or is cancelled while you are enrolled at a university or graduate school, a change to D-2 (student) residence status based on your enrollment may not happen automatically. If there is any chance this situation could arise, it is important to contact your local Korea Immigration Service office in advance and find out what your options are.

Possibility of changing to a D-2 visa for humanitarian stay permit holders

As of 2026, changing to D-2 (student) residence status from within Korea may be restricted for humanitarian stay permit holders (G-1-6), based on guidance updated in September 2025. In the past, there was guidance suggesting an in-country change could be granted at the discretion of the head of the Korea Immigration Service, but the criteria currently in effect may differ. If you are planning to enroll, be sure to confirm in advance whether a change is possible in your case with your local Korea Immigration Service office or the Immigration Contact Center (1345).

Important things to keep in mind

  • Each university decides independently whether to admit you, so policies can differ from school to school. Before applying, be sure to contact the international student office or admissions office of the school you are considering.
  • Language requirements for admission, such as the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK), differ from school to school. Check with the admissions office of the school you want to apply to.
  • Residence status rules and permit conditions can change when laws are revised. Before you start preparing to enroll, check the latest information with the Immigration Contact Center (1345) or your local Korea Immigration Service office.
  • For reference, the policy that grants residence status to protect the right to education of long-term resident children has been extended until March 31, 2028.