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F-2-7-IM · F-5-12 · Investment Immigration

Public Benefit Investment Immigration – F-2-7-IM & F-5-12

Public Benefit Investment Immigration — This page explains how to obtain Korean residency and permanent residency through investment in government-designated public benefit projects. Based on the official Immigration & Foreigner Policy Manual. Investment amount as corrected: KRW 1.5 billion (updated from previous KRW 500 million standard).

1. Overview

Korea's Public Benefit Investment Immigration program allows foreign nationals to obtain Korean residency — and eventually permanent residency — by investing a minimum of KRW 1.5 billion in government-designated public benefit investment vehicles. These include funds supporting social infrastructure, public housing, regional development, and other nationally designated priorities.

The program provides a clear two-stage pathway: first to residency (F-2-7-IM), then after 5 years of continuous investment, to permanent residency (F-5-12).

2. Two-Stage Pathway

Stage 1
F-2-7-IM
Residency Visa
  • Invest KRW 1.5B+ in designated fund
  • Obtain F-2-7-IM residency status
  • Valid while investment is maintained
  • Family members may join on F-3
Stage 2 (after 5 years)
F-5-12
Permanent Residency
  • Maintain investment for 5 continuous years
  • Apply for F-5-12 permanent residency
  • No further investment maintenance required after PR
  • Permanent right to reside in Korea

3. Eligibility Requirements

  • Minimum investment of KRW 1.5 billion in a government-designated public benefit investment fund
  • Investment must be maintained continuously throughout the residency period
  • No history of immigration violations or serious criminal convictions in Korea
  • Clean tax record in Korea
  • Investment must be made in one's own name (not through a third party)

4. Required Documents

CategoryDocuments
IdentityPassport, application form, photo (3.5×4.5 cm)
Investment proofInvestment certificate from the designated fund manager confirming KRW 1.5B+ investment
Funds sourceBank transfer records, proof of legitimate funds origin
Criminal recordCriminal background check from country of origin (apostilled)
Tax recordsTax payment certificate (Korea) or tax return from country of origin

A complete document list and investment fund options will be provided during consultation.

5. Application Process

  1. Free consultation to assess eligibility and select the appropriate designated fund
  2. Make the investment (KRW 1.5B+) in the designated public benefit fund
  3. Obtain investment certificate from the fund manager
  4. Apply for F-2-7-IM residency at the immigration office
  5. Maintain investment for 5 continuous years while living in Korea
  6. After 5 years, apply for F-5-12 permanent residency

6. Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What happens if I withdraw the investment before 5 years?
A. The F-2-7-IM status is dependent on maintaining the investment. Withdrawing the investment before completing 5 years will affect your residency status. Contact us for case-specific advice before making any changes.
Q. Can my family members also obtain residency?
A. Yes. Your spouse and children (unmarried, under 18) may obtain F-3 dependent visas while you hold F-2-7-IM status.
Q. Which funds are currently designated?
A. Designated funds are officially listed by the Ministry of Justice and may change. Contact us for the current list of eligible investment options.
Q. Is consultation free?
A. Yes, the initial consultation is free. Contact us in English, Korean, Chinese, or Japanese.

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