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
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
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
A complete document list and investment fund options will be provided during consultation.
5. Application Process
- Free consultation to assess eligibility and select the appropriate designated fund
- Make the investment (KRW 1.5B+) in the designated public benefit fund
- Obtain investment certificate from the fund manager
- Apply for F-2-7-IM residency at the immigration office
- Maintain investment for 5 continuous years while living in Korea
- After 5 years, apply for F-5-12 permanent residency



