Securing the Correct Visa
Foreign entrepreneurs planning to start a small business in South Korea often need to understand how visa options connect with South Korea business registration. There are a number of visas you can start a visa on in South Korea. Our team collaborates with legal counselors to ensure that you choose the visa that fits you best. Here are some common pathways our clients have chosen.
*BrandUp Korea is not a legal consultatant Information does not apply to every individual's situation. For customised and accurate support, please contact us individually to be connected to our legal partner.
D-8-4
Tech & Business Startup Visa
This is currently the most popular visa path taken to start a business in Korea. It does not have a strict investment amount or Korean language requirements. Instead, issuance relies on a point system with heavy weight given to participation in the government-run OASIS program and your business plan.
Types of businesses allowed: Must be tech or innovation-focused, including: It, Software, E-commerce platforms, AI, Automation, Biotech, Medtech, Sustainability, Manufacturing, Tech, etc.
D-8-1
Foreign Investment Visa
D-8-1 is one of the most all-encompassing visa options for those wanting to start a business in Korea. The main requirement is having 100,000,000 won (aprox. 70,000 USD) in investment. Nearly every type of business can be opened on this visa.
F Visa
Ethnic, Marriage, and Points-based residency
Another popular path is for those with F-series visas, typically those focused on long-term immigration, or overseas ethnic Koreans returning to South Korea. Under F-series visas, legally, there are no restrictions on business type, and no difference from Korean citizens; however, in practice, F visa holders typically face a wide range of administrative hurdles that may require assistance navigating.
D-9
International Trade Visa
D-9 has several sub-categories. However, for all of them, the business must be related to international trade. These visas rely heavily on revenue and business plans. The types of businesses allowed are generally limited to trade, manufacturing, distribution, franchises, and business expansion.