Investment Visa (D-8) in Korea: How to Qualify
South Korea’s dynamic economy and growing startup scene make it an attractive destination for foreign investors. If you’re planning to start a business or invest in a Korean company, the D-8 Investment Visa in Korea could be your gateway. This guide explains everything you need to know about how to get a D-8 visa, from requirements and eligibility to application steps and immigration tips.
Whether you're looking to start a business in Korea, invest in a local company, or act as a corporate executive, understanding the Korean investment visa requirements is essential. Here’s a complete overview to help you navigate the process successfully.
1. What Is the D-8 Investment Visa?
The D-8 visa is designed for foreign investors, executives, and entrepreneurs who wish to run or establish a company in South Korea. This visa supports the inflow of foreign direct investment and facilitates economic collaboration between Korea and other countries.
There are several subtypes of the D-8 visa:
- D-8-1: For foreign investors who establish a Korean corporation
- D-8-2: For intra-company transferees from a foreign headquarters
- D-8-3: For technology start-ups and venture businesses
- D-8-4: For start-ups with technological or intellectual property
2. Who Qualifies for a D-8 Visa?
To qualify for a D-8 visa, you must meet specific investment and business requirements. The criteria vary slightly depending on the visa subtype, but general requirements include:
- Investment of at least KRW 100 million (approx. $75,000 USD)
- Establishment or participation in a legally registered Korean company
- Proof of active business operations (office space, contracts, employees, etc.)
- For D-8-1: You must be a shareholder or an executive with authority over the company
✔️ If you're wondering how to apply for a business visa in Korea, these documents are critical:
- Business registration certificate
- Investment report filed with KOTRA or a Korean bank
- Articles of incorporation
- Lease agreement (for office or business location)
- Passport and completed visa application form
3. How to Apply for a D-8 Investment Visa in Korea
Here’s a step-by-step guide for applying for the Korean D-8 investment visa:
Step 1: Prepare Business Structure
Decide your business type (corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship). Most D-8-1 visa holders must create a Korean corporation registered with the Korean Tax Office.
Step 2: Register Investment with KOTRA
Submit your investment report to KOTRA (Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency) or a designated bank. This step confirms your foreign investment eligibility.
Step 3: Apply at the Korean Immigration Office
Once your business is legally registered and your investment is in place, you can apply for the visa at your local immigration office in Korea or a Korean embassy abroad.
✔️ Be sure to include:
- Investment certificate
- Business plan
- Corporate seal
- Recent tax payment certificate
- Lease contract (business location)
4. Validity and Renewal of the D-8 Visa
The D-8 visa is generally valid for 1 to 2 years, depending on the business’s size and success. It is renewable as long as you continue to meet visa requirements and prove the business is active.
You may also be eligible to apply for long-term residency (F-2 visa) or even permanent residency (F-5 visa) after several years of stable business activity.
5. Advantages of the D-8 Visa
Foreign entrepreneurs on the D-8 business visa in Korea enjoy several benefits:
- Full legal right to run and manage a business
- Spouse and children may qualify for dependent visas
- Pathway to long-term visa or permanent residency
- Access to Korea’s robust infrastructure and government support programs
Many foreign investors in Korea also participate in startup accelerators and receive tax incentives or subsidies from local governments.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
🔴 Not investing the minimum required amount
🔴 Not maintaining proper business operations (i.e., no office, no sales)
🔴 Failing to renew business licenses or immigration documents
🔴 Not understanding Korean business laws or visa regulations
Hiring a business consultant or visa specialist familiar with Korean law is highly recommended.
Securing an investment visa in South Korea can be a rewarding pathway to launching a business in one of Asia’s most dynamic economies. With the right planning, documentation, and understanding of immigration rules, you can live and work legally in Korea while growing your company.
For those serious about doing business in Korea, the D-8 visa provides an excellent starting point. Investment visa eligibility depends on factors such as capital, business type, and nationality—and requirements may change. It is highly recommended to get professional advice from a business lawyer or certified consultant. You can also check the official Korean Immigration Service website(https://www.immigration.go.kr).
