D-10-3 (Advanced Technology Intern) Korea Visa Guide | 2026
D-10-3 (첨단기술인턴) is an INTERNSHIP code, not a job-seeking one. Introduced in August 2022, it lets students and recent graduates in advanced-technology fields do an internship at a qualifying Korean company or institution.
D-10-3 sits within the job-seeking (D-10) status but is distinct in purpose from its siblings: D-10-1 is 일반구직, general job seeking; D-10-2 is 기술창업준비, technology startup preparation; D-10-T is 최우수인재, the preliminary Top-Tier code. D-10-3 exists specifically for advanced-technology internship activity at a company or institution meeting the Ministry of Justice's requirements.
2. Eligibility Checklist
Currently enrolled on a master's-level or higher programme, OR graduated no more than three years ago.
AGE LIMIT applies: under 30, raised to under 35 for those holding a master's degree or above.
The internship is in an advanced-technology field.
The host company or institution meets the requirements set by the Minister of Justice.
This is internship activity — if you are looking for work generally, D-10-1 is the code; if you are preparing a technology startup, D-10-2.
No unresolved compliance issues block review.
3. Criteria Summary
D-10-3 is not a points-visa category.
Review emphasizes pathway fit and documentary coherence.
Specialized transition logic must be explicit and evidence-backed.
Ambiguous pathway selection can lead to refusal or supplementation.
4. Salary and Contract Rules
D-10-3 does not require an active employment contract at filing.
No fixed E-series salary threshold applies at preparatory stage.
Any attached offer or plan documents should stay internally consistent.
Destination status change later requires full destination criteria.
5. Employer and Workplace Change Rules
D-10-3 is not a standard employer-sponsored status.
Permitted activity scope remains limited to authorized preparation context.
Unauthorized work can negatively affect later transitions.
Keep reporting and activity history clean and consistent.
6. Required Documents
Application form, passport, ARC (if applicable), photo, and fee proof.
Pathway-specific background and transition-supporting evidence.
Financial support records for requested period.
Status-history records and any required declarations.
Additional office-requested case documents.
7. Fees and Processing
Fees follow current manual schedules for D-10 handling.
Processing timeline varies by office and case complexity.
Supplement rounds are common if pathway fit is unclear.
Submit early and avoid last-minute expiry risk.
8. Common Rejection Reasons
Pathway does not satisfy D-10-3 conditions.
Transition rationale is unclear or weakly evidenced.
Financial/stay evidence is insufficient.
Prior compliance issues remain unresolved.
Core filing records conflict or are incomplete.
9. FAQ
When is D-10-3 used instead of D-10-1?
D-10-3 is used in designated specialized transition contexts under current guidance.
Can D-10-3 transition to E-series status?
Potentially yes, if destination eligibility is fully satisfied.
Is D-10-3 a work authorization?
No. It is a preparatory job-seeking/transition status with limited permitted activity.
What is the common D-10-3 filing issue?
Unclear pathway fit and weak supporting evidence.
10. Last Verified From Official Manual
Last verified: 2026-07-27
• Primary support includes D-10 sub-path handling references in the 2026 manuals.
• This page provides operational guidance only, not legal advice. Reviewing officers may request additional documents.
Internal review revision log
Internal visa issuance guidance
Internal stay and residence guidance
11. Subtype-Specific Filing Notes
Run a latest-rules fit check for D-10-3 before filing.
Structure the file evidence-first and remove timeline/value inconsistencies.
Re-verify current notices/manual revisions right before submission.