Last Updated: January 2026
If you are going for a full degree (Bachelor/Masters), you need a D-2 Visa. If you are going only to learn the language, you need a D-4 Visa.
Crucial Warning: The Korean Embassy in Dhaka is extremely strict about financial documents. You must show “liquid” cash (FDR or Savings) that has been in the account for at least 6 months.
1. D-2 vs. D-4: Which One Do You Need?
| Feature | D-2 Visa (Degree) | D-4 Visa (Language) |
| Purpose | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | Korean Language Course Only |
| Duration | 2 Years (Renewable until grad) | 6 Months (Renewable up to 2 yrs) |
| Work Rights | Allowed (Part-time) after 6 months* | NOT Allowed for first 6 months |
| Bank Balance | ~$20,000 USD (approx. 24 Lakh BDT) | ~$10,000 USD (approx. 12 Lakh BDT) |
| Success Rate | High (if documents are real) | Medium (High scrutiny in Dhaka) |
Note on Work Rights: D-2 students can work immediately if they have TOPIK 3+, but officially you need immigration permission. D-4 students strictly cannot work legally for the first 6 months.
2. The “Bank Solvency” Nightmare (Dhaka Specifics)
This is where 80% of Bangladeshi applicants fail. The Embassy wants to ensure you are not using “borrowed money” just for the visa.
- Who can be your sponsor?
- Parents: Best option. (Father or Mother).
- Self: Only if you can prove a high salary/business income.
- Brother/Uncle: Risk Factor. The Embassy often rejects these unless you show legal guardianship documents.
- The “6-Month” Rule:
- Your bank statement should show the required amount (e.g., 24 Lakh BDT) held in the account for at least 6 months.
- Sudden Deposit Warning: If you deposit 20 Lakh BDT one week before applying, you will be asked to explain the source (Source of Fund affidavit).
- Acceptable Accounts:
- Savings Account (Statements required).
- FDR (Fixed Deposit Receipt) – Highly recommended as it proves “saved” money.
3. Document Checklist (The “Embassy Packet”)
Since Bangladesh joined the Apostille Convention, the process has simplified, but the Embassy still demands specific formatting.
- Visa Application Form: (Form No. 34 for Students).
- Passport: Original + Photocopy (Must have 6 months validity).
- Certificate of Admission (CoA): The official PDF sent by your Korean University.
*
- Business Registration Certificate: The university will send this with your CoA.
- Academic Documents:
- SSC/HSC/Bachelor: Must be Apostilled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in Dhaka.
- Tuberculosis (TB) Test:
- MUST be from a designated hospital (e.g., IOM or Prescription Point in Dhaka). Reports from local clinics are rejected.
4. The Embassy Interview (The “Vibe Check”)
Bangladeshi applicants often face a face-to-face interview at the Embassy in Baridhara.
- Language: Usually in English (or Korean if you claim proficiency).
- Common Questions:
- “Why this specific university?” (Do not say “Because tuition is cheap.”)
- “What does your father do?” (They are checking if your sponsor is real.)
- “What is your plan after graduation?” (Correct Answer: “I will return to Bangladesh to contribute to [Industry]…” — Never say “I want to settle in Korea.”)
5. FAQ: Visa Realities
Q: Can I change from D-4 (Language) to D-2 (Degree) inside Korea?
A: Yes. This is a common path. You enter on D-4, learn Korean for 1 year, get admission to a university, and visit the Korean Immigration Office (in Korea) to switch to D-2. You do not need to return to Dhaka.
Q: My bank balance is slightly lower ($18,000). Is that okay?
A: It depends. If your university is in Seoul, strictly $20,000. If it is a “Regional University” (outside Seoul/Gyeonggi), the requirement is often lower ($16,000 – $18,000). Check your CoA—it specifically states the required amount.
Q: How long does the visa take in Dhaka?
A: Standard time is 14 working days, but during peak seasons (Jan/Feb and July/Aug), it can take 3-4 weeks. Apply early!
