South Korea South Korea Startup Visa (D-8-4S) — Residency Program
🏠 OVERVIEW
Country
🇰🇷 South Korea
Program
South Korea Startup Visa (D-8-4S)
Local Name
Startup Korea Special Visa
Type
Startup
Status
Active
Initial Duration
24 months
Renewable
Yes
(24 mo)
Visa for foreign entrepreneurs launching innovative businesses in Korea, evaluated on business feasibility rather than academic credentials.
🪙 INVESTMENT OPTIONS
| Type | Min Amount | USD Equivalent | Holding | Returnable | Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Company capital | KRW 100,000,000 | $70,000 | -- | Yes | Required |
📋 ELIGIBILITY
Min Age
18+
Criminal Record Check
Required
Health Check
Not required
Endorsement Required
Committee
Health Insurance
Not required
💼 WORK RIGHTS
Employment
Not allowed
Self-Employment
Allowed
Own Business
Allowed
Work Permit Included
Yes
👨👩👧 FAMILY & DEPENDENTS
Dependents Allowed
Yes
Spouse Included
Yes
Max Child Age
18
Parents Allowed
No
💰 TAX DETAILS
Tax Regime
Worldwide
Regime Name
Korea progressive tax (6-45%)
Foreign Income Taxed
Yes
Capital Gains Taxed
Yes
🏆 PATH FORWARD
Permanent Residency
Yes
Years to PR
5 years
Dual Citizenship
Not allowed
Citizenship
Yes
Years to Citizenship
5 years
Language Required
B1
🌍 BENEFITS & MOBILITY
Bank Account
Can open
Property Purchase
Allowed
Public Healthcare
Access granted
Primary Residence
Required
📝 HOW TO APPLY
Method
online
Processing Time
30–90 days
Apply from Abroad
Yes
📝 NOTES
Launched Nov 2024. Evaluated on innovation and business feasibility (not degrees). Submit business plan, pitch to panel. Recommendation letter valid 6 months, must incorporate during that period. OASIS program alternative: points-based (80 points needed). From Sep 2025, local govts and private accelerators can also issue recommendations. Minimum capital $70K-$200K.
📋 ALSO IN SOUTH KOREA
South Korea also offers a digital nomad visa for remote workers:
- Workcation Visa (F-1-D) (digital nomad visa)