When December arrives, most Koreans say, “I can’t believe the year is almost over.” But for international students, December is also the time to double-check your visa status.
📌 “Is my visa still valid?” If you’ve ever had this thought, this article is exactly what you need right now.
Today, we’ll go over the essential things D-2 visa students must check in December. Let’s go through them one by one to make sure your stay in Korea is completely secure.
1. Do you really know the exact expiration date of your Alien Registration Card (ARC)?
The D-2 student visa usually grants a stay period of 6 months to 1 year. The problem is that, in the middle of busy campus life, many students forget their expiration date.
✅ Visa extension application: Available starting 30 days before expiration
❌ Neglecting after expiration: Considered illegal stay + possible fines (up to 200,000 KRW per day depending on the case)
👉 If you’re reading this right now, take out your ARC from your wallet and check the expiration date. It’s also a good idea to set a mobile calendar reminder if needed.
2. Moved to a new place? Reporting your new address is not optional — it’s mandatory
In Korea, it’s common to move from a dormitory to an apartment, or from a one-room to a share house. However, many international students say, “I didn’t know I had to report after moving.”
According to Korean immigration law, foreigners must report a change of address within 14 days after moving.
Fine for not reporting: Approximately 50,000 to 500,000 KRW
Required documents
Lease contract or dormitory confirmation letter
Passport and Alien Registration Card
How to report
Visit the local immigration office
File online through HiKorea
👉 To sum it up:
🏠 “If you’ve moved → You must report your new address.”
Keep that rule in mind.
3. The “3 Essential School Documents” Often Required for Visa Extensions
When extending your visa, immigration often asks for three key documents:
Certificate of Enrollment – to confirm you’re actively attending classes
Academic Transcript – to check your academic performance
Tuition Payment Receipt – to verify you’ve paid the semester’s tuition
These documents are generally available at your school’s administrative office or online portal. Prepare them in advance before your visa extension date to save time and avoid stress.
4. Get Ready: Immigration Service System Will Change Starting in 2026
The Ministry of Justice is preparing new systems to make immigration services more convenient for foreigners starting in 2026.
Expanded mobile reservation system for immigration services
Simplified online submission for required documents
Although details are still being updated, it’s expected that online and mobile-based services will continue to expand significantly.
WeBring will keep tracking these changes and provide clear, student-focused guidance to help you stay updated.
5. Feeling Unsure? Get Professional Guidance for Peace of Mind
Visa and stay-related issues can become quite complicated if not handled properly from the beginning.
When you’re not sure which documents apply to your current situation
When you might have missed your address change report
When you’re unsure if your current status might lead to a fine
Rather than worrying alone, consulting with an experienced professional is often the safer and more reliable choice.
🌍 WeBring is a settlement partner that offers support for international students — including visa and residence consulting — to help you navigate life in Korea smoothly. This December, take a moment to review your visa and residence status for peace of mind.
