Which work visa lets me stay in South Korea while I prepare for the Korean Medical Licensing Examination after medical college?
10 Nov 2026 · Answered by Sweety Shah · 2 min read
Quick Answer
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Medical graduates typically use the D-10-1 job-seeking visa to stay in South Korea while preparing for the Korean Medical Licensing Examination. It is valid for 6 months per issuance and extendable up to 2 years, but it does not permit paid clinical practice. Check official rules.
After graduating from a medical college in South Korea, you can typically use the D-10-1 job-seeking visa to stay while you prepare for the Korean Medical Licensing Examination (KMLE). It suits job searching and exam preparation, but it does not permit paid clinical practice.
Visa Categories for Medical Graduates
| Visa type | Purpose for medical graduates | Validity and conditions |
|---|---|---|
| D-10-1 (Job-Seeking Visa) | Stay while preparing for the KMLE and searching for jobs; no paid clinical practice | Valid for 6 months per issuance, extendable up to 2 years |
| E-5 (Specialty Professional Visa) | Clinical practice as a medical intern, resident or physician; needs a valid employment contract from an approved healthcare institution | Valid for 1 to 5 years, renewable based on employment status |
| E-1 (University Professor Visa) | Medical education, academia or research at universities and research institutions | Valid for 1 to 3 years, renewable based on the employment contract |
| F-2-7 (Points-Based Residency Visa) | Greater professional flexibility, can change employers without a new visa sponsor, and may lead to permanent residency | Valid for 1 to 5 years, renewable subject to eligibility |
Choosing the Right Path
- Use D-10-1 while you prepare for the exam, not for paid clinical work.
- Move to E-5 if you want to practise clinically with an approved healthcare institution's contract.
- Consider E-1 for teaching or research careers, and F-2-7 for long-term flexibility.
My Advice
Plan your visa step before your current status ends, and keep your exam preparation timeline in view. Visa rules change, so confirm the latest requirements with the official immigration authority.
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