1. Overview
The D-8 Corporate Investment Visa is a long-term residency status granted under the Foreign Investment Promotion Act to foreign investors who have invested KRW 100 million or more in a Korean corporation and are actively operating that corporation. Vision Administrative Law Office (VISASKOREA) provides one-stop service covering the entire process from foreign investment reporting and corporation establishment to D-8 visa issuance. Each KRW 100M in capital allows one D-8 visa holder.
2. Requirements
- Investment of KRW 100 million or more in a Korean corporation (Foreign Investment Promotion Act standard)
- Proof of legal source of investment funds (overseas remittance records)
- Status as representative or key executive of the Korean corporation
- No violations of immigration law
- No outstanding domestic tax liabilities
3. Required Documents
4. Application Process
- Free consultation — review of investment scale and corporation type
- Foreign investment report at foreign exchange bank
- Establish Korean corporation (registered capital KRW 100M+)
- Open corporate bank account and deposit investment funds
- Register as foreign-invested enterprise
- Apply for visa issuance confirmation (or status change if already in Korea)
- Obtain D-8 visa at Korean embassy in home country (or change of status)
- Register as foreigner within 90 days of entry
5. FAQ
Q. Can the KRW 100M investment be cash or in-kind?
A. Cash remittance is the primary method. In-kind investment such as machinery or equipment is also possible but requires a separate feasibility review.
Q. Can family members reside together?
A. Yes. A spouse and minor children may reside together under the F-3 (dependent) status accompanying the D-8 holder.
Q. How long is the D-8 visa valid?
A. The initial period is generally 1–2 years. It can be extended to 3–5 years depending on the corporation's operating status.
Q. Can D-8 be converted to F-2 or F-5?
A. Yes. After 1–3 years, conversion to F-2-7 long-term residency or F-5 permanent residency is possible through the points-based system.