1. Overview
F-5-24 grants permanent residency to foreign nationals who hold a D-8-4 (technology startup investor) visa and have met the investment and residency conditions. The D-8-4 visa is issued to foreign investors who invest in Korean tech startups under the government's startup promotion programs. F-5-24 applicants are exempt from both the living support requirement and the basic competency (Korean language/KIIP) requirement.
2. Eligibility Requirements
- Must currently hold or have held D-8-4 (tech startup investor) visa status
- Must have maintained the qualifying investment in the designated tech startup for the required period
- Investment must be in a Korean startup eligible under the D-8-4 program (typically TIPS-designated or equivalent)
- Must have maintained lawful residence in Korea throughout the qualifying period
- Living support requirement: EXEMPT for F-5-24
- Basic competency (Korean language/KIIP): EXEMPT for F-5-24
3. Required Documents
Specific documents per case will be advised in your free consultation.
4. Procedure
- Confirm D-8-4 visa status and verify that the invested startup meets the program's eligibility criteria
- Compile investment documents and startup qualification certificates
- Gather residence records confirming continuous lawful stay in Korea
- Submit application at the local immigration office with complete documentation
- Receive F-5 card upon approval (review approximately 2–4 weeks)
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the D-8-4 visa and how does it relate to F-5-24?
A. The D-8-4 is a corporate investment visa specifically issued to foreign nationals who invest in Korean technology startups under designated government programs (such as the TIPS program). After maintaining this investment and satisfying residency conditions, D-8-4 holders become eligible to apply for F-5-24 permanent residency.
Q. Is there a minimum investment amount for F-5-24?
A. The investment threshold is tied to the D-8-4 program requirements and the specific startup program under which the investor qualified. The amounts and conditions are set by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups and may vary by program. Consult with an agent for the current thresholds.
Q. Are family members of F-5-24 holders covered under the same exemptions?
A. F-5-24 itself covers the qualifying investor. Family members may be eligible to apply under separate F-5 categories (e.g., F-5-4 for spouse/child of F-5 holder, or F-5-20 for children born in Korea). Vision Admin Office can assess family members' eligibility in the same consultation.