This document provides essential information for foreign entrepreneurs and investors regarding the South Korea Technology Startup Visa (D-8-4) and the Investor Visa (F-5-24), which grants permanent residency. It is a summary based on the attached PDF file, 'Technology Startup (D-8-4) & Investor (F-5-24) Guide,' organized for easier understanding by foreign entrepreneurs.
1. Technology Startup Visa (D-8-4)
The D-8-4 visa is issued to foreigners who intend to establish and operate a technology-based startup in South Korea.
Eligibility Requirements
| Category | Requirements |
| Education | Holder of an associate degree or higher from a domestic institution, or a bachelor's degree or higher from an overseas institution, or recommended by a central government agency. |
| Technology & IP | Founder with intellectual property rights or equivalent technology. |
| Company Registration | Establishment of a new corporation in South Korea with completed business registration. (Conditional approval is possible with a 6-month grace period for completion). |
Approval Pathways
There are four main approval pathways, each with different requirements:
1. Standard Scoring System Route
• Obtain a minimum of 60 points out of 300 on the scoring system (including at least one required item).
• Establish a new corporation.
2. K-Startup Grand Challenge Participant
• Participation and receipt of commercialization support within the last 2 years.
• New corporation establishment and recommendation from the Ministry of SMEs and Startups.
3. Government Startup Support Recipient
• Selected for a high-tech based business within the last 2 years.
• Received at least 30 million KRW in support and established a new corporation.
4. Startup Korea Special Visa (D-8-4S)
• Approval from a private evaluation committee.
• Corporation establishment in the approved field (6-month grace period possible).
Required Documents
| Category | Key Documents |
| Basic Documents | Passport, Foreign Registration Card, Unified Application Form, Proof of Residence, Corporate Registration Certificate, Business Registration Certificate copy, Degree Certificate, Tuberculosis Test Certificate. |
| Additional Documents for Status Change | Office Lease Agreement, Proof of Business Performance, Foreigner Occupation Report. |
| Scoring System/Exemption Documents | IP Certificate, OECD Country IP Proof, Patent Application Proof, OASIS Completion Certificate, etc. |
Important: All activities require pre-approval, and additional documents may be requested. (Inquiries: Foreign Resident Support Center 1345)
Scoring System Items (Max 300 points)
• Required Items (Max 180 pts): Patent/IP Registration (60 pts), Patent Application (10 pts), Government Startup Support (30 pts), Investment Attraction of 100M+ KRW (30 pts), Professor/Researcher (3+ yrs) (60 pts).
• Optional Items (Max 120 pts): Completion of OASIS programs, TOPIK level, Master's/Doctorate degree, etc.
• Approval Criteria: At least 1 required item, and a total score of 60 points or more.
2. Technology Startup Investor Visa (F-5-24)
The F-5-24 visa grants permanent residency to investors who have resided in Korea for over 3 years with a D-8-4 visa and meet specific conditions.
Basic Requirements
| Category | Requirements |
| Residence Period | Continuously residing in Korea for 3+ years with D-8-4 status. |
| Investment Capital | Attracted 300 million KRW or more in investment from domestic or foreign investors, or hold equivalent capital. |
| Employment & Conduct | Employing 2 or more Korean nationals for 6+ months, with no criminal record. |
Key: All three basic requirements must be met for application.
Required Documents
| Category | Key Documents |
| Common Documents | Passport, Unified Application Form, Foreign Registration Card, Proof of Residence, Tuberculosis Test, Guarantor Certificate, Fee. |
| F-5-24 Specific Documents | Business Registration Certificate, Corporate Registration Certificate, Investment Proof, Employment Proof (4 major insurance records, etc.). |
| Conduct Documents | Overseas Criminal Record Certificate (with Apostille or consular confirmation), Notarized translation. |
Note: Official documents must be issued within 3 months of the application date.
Key Application Guidelines
• Extension of Stay: If the remaining period of stay is less than 6 months at the time of application for permanent residency, you must first apply for an extension.
• Good Conduct Requirements: Must have no record of specific crimes (e.g., fines or heavier penalties) in Korea or abroad.
• Application Process: Make an online reservation (www.hikorea.go.kr), then visit the competent immigration office to submit documents and undergo review.
3. Common Obligations for Startup Visa Holders
• Prohibition of Activities Outside of Status: You must only engage in activities permitted under your visa status.
• Notification of Change of Residence: You must report any change of address to the competent immigration office within 14 days.
• Notification of Changes: You must immediately report significant changes, such as in company information, position, or employment status.
Warning: Failure to comply with these obligations can lead to serious consequences, including deportation, fines, visa problems, and damage to your credit record. Please fulfill all obligations diligently.
This material is based on information as of January 2026. As policies may change, please always check the official website (www.hikorea.go.kr) for the latest updates.