1. Background of the Startup Korea Special Visa
To actively attract promising global entrepreneurial talent and foreign startups, the Korean government has introduced the Technology and Business Startup Visa (D-8-4(S)), commonly known as the Startup Korea Special Visa.
Unlike traditional visas, the government issues this special visa based on an official recommendation from the Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) following a thorough evaluation of a startup’s feasibility and innovativeness. The existing Technology Startup Visa (D-8-4) remains in place, with the new D-8-4(S) serving as a powerful, more accessible alternative.
2. Key Features of the D-8-4(S) Visa
① Recommendation-Based Issuance (No OASIS Required)
We are actively removing rigid quantitative barriers. A screening committee of private-sector experts evaluates your startup’s feasibility and innovativeness. If successful, the MSS issues a recommendation letter. Notably, applicants are entirely exempt from academic degree requirements and the complex OASIS point system.
② Pre-Incorporation Visa Issuance
Foreign founders can apply for and receive the visa before officially establishing an entity in Korea, provided they complete the incorporation within six (6) months of visa issuance.
③ Apply Directly from Overseas
There is no prior residency requirement. Overseas residents can conveniently apply for and receive this entry visa directly through their local Korean embassy or consulate.
3. Step-by-Step Issuance Process
| Step | Item | Submission / Evaluation Method | Responsible Party |
| 1. Application | Application form, business plan, etc. | K-Startup Portal / GSC Website | Applicant |
| 2. Evaluation | Eligibility, feasibility, innovativeness | Document & Presentation Review | Screening Committee |
| 3. Recommendation | Notification via mobile/email | Issuance of Recommendation Letter | MSS |
| 4. Visa Application | Submit required visa documents | Visit Immigration or Overseas Embassy | Applicant |
| 5. Visa Issuance | Final visa screening | Immigration Office / Embassy | MOJ (Immigration) |
4. Qualifications and Exclusions
✅ Eligibility Requirements (Must meet all)
- The applicant must be a non-Korean national serving as the Representative of a startup.
- Note: Generally, only one representative may apply. However, up to three co-representatives may apply separately if they meet specific criteria (e.g., K-Scouter recommendation).
- The startup must have been operating for seven (7) years or less (or ten (10) years or less for designated new industry startups).
- The business must qualify as a technology or new industry startup. (General trade, distribution, and food services are strictly excluded).
❌ Exclusion Criteria
- Business Types: General entertainment bars, gambling facilities, or businesses violating public morals.
- Financial/Legal Issues: Individuals or entities in default, in arrears with national/local taxes, or listed as employers with unpaid wages.
5. Application Timeline and Submission
Applications are currently being accepted on a rolling basis (starting from December 2024), with evaluations typically conducted on a monthly basis.
- How to Apply: Submit online via the official portal: https://airtable.com/appkd63wQDUOCZTXj/pagfG6KRvMhurBowl/form
- Required Documents:
- Recommendation application form & Business plan
- Copy of passport or alien registration certificate
- Corporate/Business registration certificate (if already established)
- Consent to personal information collection
- Note: These documents are for the MSS evaluation. Additional documents will be required by Immigration for the actual visa issuance.
6. Evaluation Metrics: How You Will Be Assessed
The screening committee conducts a comprehensive evaluation comprising a document review and a 10-minute presentation followed by a 5-minute Q&A (in-person or via video conference).
Here is exactly how your business plan will be scored (Total: 100 Points):
| Evaluation Index | Description | Points |
| 1. Problem Recognition | Background, necessity, and target market analysis. | 10 |
| 2. Feasibility & Differentiation | Development status, technical realization, and competitive edge. | 20 |
| 3. Growth Strategy | Past performance, scale-up strategy, and fund management plan. | 30 |
| 4. Team Capabilities | Startup team formation, expertise, and sustainability. | 20 |
| 5. Korean Market Entry | Entry strategy, incorporation plan, and economic contribution to Korea. | 20 |
📌 Appendix: Designated New Industry Sectors
Startups operating for 7 to 10 years are only eligible if they fall under one of these 27 high-tech sectors:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Big Data
- 5G+
- Blockchain
- Service Platform
- Immersive Content
- Intelligent Robots
- Smart Manufacturing
- System Semiconductor
- Autonomous Vehicles
- Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles
- Biotechnology (Bio)
- Medical Devices
- Functional Food
- Drones / Personal Mobility
- Next-generation Ships
- Disaster / Safety Tech
- Smart City
- Smart Home
- Renewable Energy
- Secondary Battery
- Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)
- Resource Circulation & Energy Recycling
- Space Tech
- Next-Generation Nuclear Power
- Quantum Technology
- Cybersecurity
Please check the site below for accurate information.
https://www.startup-korea.com/programs/korea-startup-visa