The Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) in South Korea has launched the Startup Korea Special Visa (D-8-4(S)), now accepting applications until November 20. 

This initiative, unveiled jointly with the Ministry of Justice at the Global Startup Center’s opening in late July, streamlines the visa process for foreign entrepreneurs. The special visa simplifies traditional criteria, emphasizing an evaluation of business viability and innovation by a private review committee. Successful candidates will receive visa issuance following an assessment according to immigration laws.

Previously, applicants needed to score highly in the OASIS talent incubation program, be among the top 20 of the K-Startup Grand Challenge, or be selected by a government startup support project to qualify for a technology startup (D-8-4) visa.

This new framework, exclusive to the Startup Korea Special Visa, marks a significant departure from previous requirements, focusing on attracting high-potential international startups through a more accessible and efficient process. The MSS handles the discovery and endorsement of these startups, evaluating their potential impact on Korea’s economy and their innovation before recommending them for visa issuance.

Foreign entrepreneurs endorsed under this program can apply for their visas by submitting the necessary documentation either at a local immigration office within Korea or at a Korean embassy or consulate abroad.

Justice Minister Park Sung-jae stated, “The Startup Korea Special Visa is integral to our new immigration and border control policy introduced last September. We aim to attract proactive, innovative talents who can start businesses in Korea and escalate them to global prominence. The Ministry of Justice will continue to advance policies that bolster our national competitiveness by attracting skilled individuals.”

MSS Minister Oh Young-ju commented, “This year, we have vigorously pursued policies to boost inbound entrepreneurship. The introduction of the Startup Korea Special Visa is expected to significantly enhance our ability to attract international entrepreneurial talent and globalize our startup ecosystem.”