If you’re a foreign entrepreneur dreaming of launching a startup in South Korea, the OASIS program is your golden ticket. Even if you don’t have a visa yet, Korea’s Overall Assistance for Start-up Immigration System (OASIS) offers a streamlined path to getting the required visas to start your venture. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from registering to acquiring both the Startup Preparation Visa (D-10-2) and the coveted Startup Visa (D-8-4).
What is the OASIS Program?
OASIS is a government initiative designed to support foreign entrepreneurs who want to set up businesses in South Korea. The program not only helps participants secure a visa but also provides business training, networking opportunities, and even support with intellectual property registration.
Who Can Register?
To qualify for the OASIS program, applicants must:
- Hold at least a bachelor’s degree (or higher).
- Be involved in technology or business-oriented fields.
- Attend OASIS courses (such as OASIS 1, 2, or 4), which are required to earn enough points (minimum of 80 points) to qualify for the visa
Steps to Register for OASIS and Obtain the D-10-2 Visa (Startup Prep Visa)
- Short-Term Visa: Initially, you can enter Korea on a short-term visa (tourist visa or student visa), as OASIS courses can be attended without a business visa
- Enroll in OASIS Classes: Choose one of the OASIS courses. These are essential to build your knowledge and accumulate points necessary for the visa. Classes are available in English and Korean languages and cover the basics of starting a tech-based business.
- Apply for the D-10-2 Visa: After completing your course, submit the following documents:
- Passport and visa application form
- OASIS course completion certificate
- Business plan (must be detailed in a month-by-month format)
- University degree (with apostille if outside Korea)
- Bank statement showing financial solvency for 6 months (approx. ₩4.3 million KRW balance (approx. $3,200))
The D-10-2 visa is valid for 6 months and can be extended up to 2 years.
Transitioning to the D-8-4 Startup Visa
Once your business has taken shape, you can apply for the D-8-4 startup visa. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A completed business registration certificate
- Proof of intellectual property (patents, trademarks, etc.): If this is not available, applying is substantial.
- Another 80 points from OASIS programs
- Updated financial documents and a rental agreement for your office space
Cost and Fees
- OASIS classes: Free, but you must be physically present in Korea to attend.
- Visa application fees: ₩60,000 KRW for extensions, and around ₩130,000 KRW for the first issuance of an ID card
- Business-related Fees: Depending on your industry, expect to budget for intellectual property applications, corporate taxes, and office setup.
Pro Tips to Make the Most of the OASIS Program
- Timing is Everything!
- The “Bank Balance” Hack
- Don’t Stress Over Perfection
- Leverage the Free Classes
- Plan for Office Space
- Patents are Your Best Friend
Start your OASIS journey while on a tourist visa! That’s right—you can attend OASIS classes while on a tourist, D-2, or D-4 visa. No need to stress about getting a business visa upfront. Use this time to soak up as much knowledge as possible before diving into the D-10-2 visa process.
You'll need to show a bank balance of about ₩4.3 million (roughly $3,700) to apply for the D-10-2 visa. Here’s a pro tip: make sure that the funds are in a Korean bank and that the money comes from you or your immediate family. Immigration doesn’t accept funds from external sources like friends, so plan ahead.
When writing your business plan, it doesn’t have to be flawless on day one! You’ll have time to tweak and update it as you progress through the visa stages. What’s more important is demonstrating your business's long-term vision and sustainability in a clear, month-by-month format.
OASIS classes aren’t just a box to tick; they’re free business lessons designed to help you succeed. Use these to network with other entrepreneurs, gain insights into the Korean market, and maybe even find your next business partner.
You’ll eventually need proof of office rental when transitioning to the D-8-4 visa. To avoid last-minute scrambling, scout for affordable coworking spaces early on. Seoul is packed with startup-friendly hubs that provide flexible leases tailored for entrepreneurs. Contact us for affordable options.
Intellectual property, especially patents, can seriously bolster your visa application. If your business idea involves a unique product or technology, start the patent application process early—it’s a fast track to earning more points in the OASIS system
With OASIS, setting up your dream business in Korea is within reach, even without a visa. Get started by enrolling in the courses, and you'll be well on your way to transforming your business ideas into reality. Contact us for assistance.
Note that the courses are run by two different organisations, KIPA (Korea Invention Promotion Association) and KPC (Korea Productivity Center). Visit this site for more information.