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Starting a Business in Korea as a Foreigner (Visa)
The visa side of starting a business in Korea: choosing between D-8 and D-9, minimum investment, incorporation steps, and going from company to visa.
Starting a business in Korea as a foreigner has two sides: the company and the visa. This guide focuses on the visa side — choosing between D-8 and D-9 and getting from incorporation to approval.
Planning a business? Ask a consultant.
Which visa?
- D-8 — investment-based; you invest in and run a corporation.
- D-9 — trade / management activities.
- F-series (F-4, F-2, F-5, F-6) — generally allow business without a business-specific visa.
Your model and investment decide which fits.
Minimum investment (D-8)
There's a minimum qualifying investment, updated periodically, that must be documented. Verify the current figure first.
From company to visa
- Choose D-8 vs D-9 based on your model.
- Incorporate and make/evidence the investment.
- Apply for the visa.
- Register (ARC) after approval.
Don't forget
- The business must be genuine and documented.
- Plan the residency path (F-2 → F-5) if you'll stay long-term.
How Langle can help
Langle's consultants match your model to the right visa and align incorporation with the application. Start free on our visa consulting page.
General information, not legal advice. Rules and figures change; verify on HiKorea or with a consultant before applying.
Frequently asked questions
- Which visa do I need to start a business in Korea?
- Usually the D-8 (corporate investment) or D-9 (trade/management), depending on your model and investment. Some founders on residence visas (F-series) can also run a business.
- What's the difference between D-8 and D-9?
- The D-8 is investment-based (you invest in a corporation); the D-9 covers trade and management activities. Your business model determines which fits.
- How much investment do I need?
- The D-8 has a minimum qualifying investment that changes periodically. Confirm the current figure and documentation rules before you plan.
- Can I run a business on an F visa instead?
- Yes — F-4, F-2, F-5, and F-6 generally allow business activity without a business-specific visa.