OASIS Program and Korea's New Startup Visa 2026: Complete Application Guide

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Introduction: Korea’s Game-Changing Startup Visa System

The Korean government has significantly streamlined the startup visa process for foreign entrepreneurs in 2026 through the OASIS (One-Stop All-Inclusive Support & Service) Program. This revolutionary initiative replaces the previous fragmented system with a unified pathway for tech-driven foreign entrepreneurs to establish and grow their businesses in Korea.

If you’re a foreign entrepreneur with an innovative business idea, the new D-8-4 (Technological Startup) visa could be your gateway to Asia’s fourth-largest economy. This guide covers everything you need to know about the OASIS Program and how to successfully obtain your startup visa in 2026.

What is the OASIS Program?

The OASIS Program is Korea’s centralized support system for foreign entrepreneurs seeking to launch technology-based startups. Administered by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, OASIS serves as a one-stop immigration center that:

• Evaluates business feasibility through a private expert committee
• Recommends qualified candidates to immigration authorities
• Streamlines visa issuance by consolidating previously scattered requirements
• Provides ongoing support throughout the business establishment phase

How OASIS Differs from the Previous System

D-8-4 Visa: Eligibility Requirements for 2026

To qualify for the D-8-4 (Technological Startup) visa through OASIS, you must meet these core requirements:

1. Educational Background

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
• Degree can be from any country (official translation required if not in Korean or English)

2. Business Concept

• Advanced technology-based business idea or existing company
• Must demonstrate innovation and market potential
• Technology sectors include: AI, IoT, biotech, fintech, green tech, digital platforms, etc.

3. Physical Presence

• You must be physically in Korea to apply
• OASIS applications can only be submitted while in Korea on another visa status (tourist, student, etc.)

4. Business Substance

• Credible business plan demonstrating:
  • Market research and competitive analysis
  • Revenue model and financial projections
  • Technology differentiation
  • Scalability potential

5. Financial Capacity

• While there’s no fixed minimum capital requirement for the visa itself, you should demonstrate:
  • Sufficient funds to support initial operations
  • Personal financial stability during the startup phase
  • Ability to meet standard company registration requirements (KRW 100 million recommended for FDI status)

The OASIS Application Process: Step-by-Step

Phase 1: Preparation (Before Arriving in Korea)

Step 1: Develop Your Business Plan Create a comprehensive business plan that includes:

• Executive summary
• Market analysis (Korean market focus)
• Technology and product description
• Competitive advantages
• Marketing and sales strategy
• Financial projections (3-5 years)
• Team composition

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• Valid passport
• University degree certificates (officially translated)
• Proof of business concept (patent applications, prototypes, MVP, etc.)
• Personal financial statements
• Curriculum vitae/resume

Step 3: Enter Korea

• Obtain appropriate short-term visa (tourist visa for visa-exempt nationals, or visitor visa)
• Note: You cannot apply for OASIS from outside Korea

Phase 2: OASIS Application (In Korea)

Step 4: Submit OASIS Application

• Visit the OASIS website (www.oasisvisa.com) or contact their office
• Submit initial application with business plan and supporting documents
• Pay application fees (if applicable)

Step 5: Business Evaluation

• OASIS private evaluation committee reviews your application
• Assessment criteria include:
  • Innovation: Technology novelty and differentiation
  • Feasibility: Market potential and execution capability
  • Scalability: Growth potential and business model sustainability
  • Economic Impact: Job creation potential and contribution to Korean economy

Step 6: Receive OASIS Recommendation

• If approved, OASIS issues a formal recommendation to the Ministry of Justice
• This recommendation is the critical document for your visa application

Phase 3: D-8-4 Visa Application

Step 7: Apply for D-8-4 Visa

• Submit visa application to immigration office with OASIS recommendation
• Provide additional documents:
  • Business registration certificate (if company already formed)
  • Office lease agreement
  • Bank account proof (corporate or personal)
  • Health insurance enrollment

Step 8: Immigration Review

• Ministry of Justice conducts final review
• Focus is primarily on security/background check (business feasibility already vetted by OASIS)

Step 9: Visa Issuance

• D-8-4 visa granted (typically 1-2 year initial period)
• Can be extended based on business progress

Alternative Entry Path: D-10-2 (Startup Preparation Visa)

If you’re not quite ready to launch your business but want to prepare while in Korea, consider the D-10-2 (Startup Preparation) visa:

D-10-2 Eligibility

• Same educational and business concept requirements as D-8-4
• Designed for entrepreneurs who need time to:
  • Conduct market research
  • Network and find partners/investors
  • Develop prototypes
  • Prepare company registration

D-10-2 to D-8-4 Pathway

• D-10-2 is typically valid for 6-12 months
• During this period, you can establish your company and apply for D-8-4 conversion
• OASIS recommendation still required for D-8-4 conversion

Required Documentation Checklist

When applying through OASIS, prepare the following documents:

Personal Documents

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Passport photos (3.5cm x 4.5cm, recent)
• Bachelor’s degree certificate (officially translated if not in Korean/English)
• University transcript
• Curriculum vitae/resume
• Proof of financial capacity (bank statements, investment commitments)

Business Documents

• Comprehensive business plan (25-50 pages recommended)
• Market research report (Korean market analysis)
• Technology documentation (patents, technical specifications, prototype demos)
• Financial projections (3-5 year P&L, cash flow, balance sheet)
• Letters of intent from potential customers/partners (if available)
• Investment term sheets or funding proof (if applicable)

Company Documents (if already registered)

• Business registration certificate (사업자등록증)
• Corporate registration certificate (법인등기부등본)
• Office lease agreement (사무실 임대차계약서)
• Corporate bank account statement
• Tax payment certificates

Additional Supporting Documents

• Patent applications or IP registrations
• Awards, competition wins, accelerator acceptance letters
• Media coverage or press mentions
• Previous business experience proof
• Recommendation letters from industry experts

Success Strategies: How to Strengthen Your Application

1. Demonstrate Clear Korean Market Fit

• Show specific understanding of Korean consumer behavior
• Identify local competitors and your differentiation
• Highlight partnerships with Korean companies or institutions

2. Emphasize Technology Innovation

• Provide technical documentation proving novelty
• Reference IP (patents, trade secrets, proprietary algorithms)
• Show technology roadmap and R&D plans

3. Prove Scalability Potential

• Present realistic but ambitious growth projections
• Identify expansion opportunities within Korea and regionally
• Show unit economics that support scalability

4. Highlight Job Creation

• Estimate hiring plan over 3-5 years
• Emphasize skilled positions (engineering, research, etc.)
• Show commitment to hiring Korean talent

5. Secure Pre-Launch Traction

• Customer pre-orders or letters of intent
• Investment commitments or funding secured
• Beta users or pilot program participants
• Strategic partnerships with established companies

6. Leverage Existing Credentials

• Previous startup experience or exits
• Recognition from accelerators or competitions
• Industry awards or media coverage
• Academic publications or research

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

❌ Insufficient Business Plan

Many applicants submit generic business plans without Korea-specific market analysis. Your plan must demonstrate deep understanding of the Korean market, regulatory environment, and competitive landscape.

❌ Weak Financial Projections

Overly optimistic or poorly researched financial models raise red flags. Use conservative assumptions backed by market data.

❌ Lack of Technology Documentation

Claiming “advanced technology” without technical proof is insufficient. Provide patents, technical whitepapers, or architecture diagrams.

❌ No Clear Revenue Model

Innovative ideas must have viable monetization strategies. Clearly explain how you’ll generate revenue and achieve profitability.

❌ Applying from Outside Korea

OASIS applications can only be submitted while physically in Korea. Plan accordingly.

❌ Ignoring Business Substance Requirements

Even after receiving the visa, you must maintain genuine business operations (office, employees, revenue) to extend or convert to other visa categories.

Post-Visa: Maintaining and Extending D-8-4 Status

Initial Visa Period

• D-8-4 typically granted for 1-2 years initially
• Can be extended based on business progress

Extension Requirements

To extend your D-8-4 visa, you must demonstrate:

1. Active Business Operations

   • Registered company with valid business license
   • Physical office (virtual offices may not qualify)
   • Business bank account with transaction history

2. Business Progress

   • Revenue generation or significant traction
   • Customer acquisition and retention
   • Product/service development milestones
   • Fundraising achievements (if applicable)

3. Employment of Local Talent

   • Hiring Korean employees strengthens extension applications
   • Show job creation impact

4. Financial Sustainability

   • Demonstrate ability to sustain operations
   • Corporate tax filing compliance
   • VAT returns submitted on time

5. Continued Innovation

   • R&D activities and IP development
   • Product updates or new service launches
   • Market expansion efforts

Extension Application Process

• Submit extension application 2-3 months before current visa expires
• Provide updated business plan and financial statements
• Include evidence of business progress (contracts, revenue reports, employment records)
• Immigration may conduct site visits to verify business substance

Path to Permanent Residency

After maintaining D-8-4 status for several years with successful business operations, you may become eligible for:

• F-2 (Residence) visa: Points-based system considering income, assets, education
• F-5 (Permanent Residence): After 5+ years of continuous legal residence with stable income

OASIS Program Additional Support Services

Beyond visa facilitation, OASIS provides:

Mentorship and Networking

• Connection to Korean startup mentors
• Introduction to potential investors and partners
• Access to startup events and demo days

Business Support

• Guidance on company registration procedures
• Introduction to accounting and legal service providers
• Office space referrals

Funding Opportunities

• Information on government grants and subsidies
• Connection to VC firms interested in foreign entrepreneurs
• Crowdfunding platform recommendations

Regulatory Guidance

• Compliance assistance for industry-specific regulations
• Tax and labor law orientation
• IP protection guidance

Timeline: From Application to Business Launch

Here’s a realistic timeline for the OASIS-D-8-4 pathway:

Cost Considerations

Budget for these key expenses:

Note: Costs vary significantly based on business type, location, and service providers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for OASIS if I’m on a tourist visa?

Yes, as long as you’re physically in Korea. However, ensure your tourist visa status allows sufficient time to complete the OASIS and D-8-4 application process.

Do I need to have a company registered before applying for OASIS?

No, you can apply with just a business plan. However, having a registered company can strengthen your application.

What happens if OASIS rejects my application?

You can reapply after addressing the evaluation committee’s concerns. Consider revising your business plan, strengthening financial projections, or pivoting your business model.

Can I bring my family on a D-8-4 visa?

Yes, your spouse and children can apply for F-3 (dependent) visas once you obtain D-8-4 status.

Is there an age limit for the D-8-4 visa?

No official age limit, but you must demonstrate capacity to successfully operate a business.

Can I work for another company while on D-8-4?

Generally no. D-8-4 is for operating your own startup. However, you may apply for part-time work permission in certain circumstances.

What if my startup fails? Will I lose my visa?

If your business becomes inactive, your visa may not be extended. It’s important to demonstrate ongoing business activities even if initial plans pivot.

Case Study: Successful OASIS Application Example

Background: Maria, a Brazilian software engineer with a Master’s in Computer Science, developed an AI-powered language learning platform.

Timeline:

• Month 1-2: Developed detailed business plan focused on Korean market (K-pop content integration for language learning)
• Month 3: Entered Korea on tourist visa, submitted OASIS application within first week
• Month 4: Received OASIS recommendation after presenting prototype demo to evaluation committee
• Month 5: Applied for and received D-8-4 visa
• Month 6: Registered LLC, leased small office in Seoul startup hub
• Month 7-12: Launched beta version, secured 5,000 users, hired 2 Korean developers

Success Factors:

• Clear Korean market differentiation (K-pop content licensing partnerships)
• Working prototype demonstrated technical feasibility
• Prior startup experience (founded edtech company in Brazil)
• Conservative but defensible financial projections
• Willingness to bootstrap initially (KRW 150 million personal investment)

Conclusion: Is the OASIS Program Right for You?

The OASIS Program and D-8-4 visa pathway represent Korea’s commitment to attracting global entrepreneurial talent. This streamlined system offers foreign founders a genuine opportunity to build technology businesses in one of Asia’s most dynamic markets.

You should pursue OASIS if you:

• ✅ Have a technology-based, scalable business concept
• ✅ Possess relevant educational credentials (Bachelor’s or higher)
• ✅ Can commit to being physically in Korea for business operations
• ✅ Have sufficient financial resources to sustain initial operations
• ✅ Are prepared for the challenges of building a business in a foreign market

Consider alternative paths if:

• ❌ Your business is not technology-focused
• ❌ You cannot relocate to Korea full-time
• ❌ You lack the financial runway for startup operations
• ❌ Your business requires industry licenses difficult for foreigners to obtain

The Korean startup ecosystem offers tremendous opportunities—world-class infrastructure, tech-savvy consumers, access to Asian markets, and government support. With the OASIS Program, foreign entrepreneurs now have a clear, consolidated pathway to tap into this potential.

Next Steps: How to Begin Your OASIS Journey

1. Conduct Market Research: Validate your business concept for the Korean market
2. Develop Your Business Plan: Create a comprehensive, Korea-focused plan
3. Secure Funding: Ensure you have sufficient capital for initial operations
4. Gather Documentation: Collect all required personal and business documents
5. Enter Korea: Arrive on appropriate visa status
6. Apply to OASIS: Submit application through official channels
7. Seek Professional Support: Consider engaging immigration lawyers and business consultants familiar with OASIS

Get Expert Assistance with Your OASIS Application

Navigating the OASIS Program and D-8-4 visa application can be complex. SMA Lawfirm specializes in supporting foreign entrepreneurs through every step of the startup visa process, from business plan review to company registration and ongoing compliance.

Our services include:

• Business plan consultation tailored to OASIS evaluation criteria
• Documentation preparation and translation services
• OASIS application strategy and submission support
• Company formation and corporate registration
• Ongoing compliance support for visa extensions
• Tax and legal advisory for startup operations

📩 Contact us at sma@saemunan.com to schedule a consultation and start your journey to building your startup in Korea.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about the OASIS Program and D-8-4 visa as of February 2026. Immigration policies and requirements may change. Always consult with qualified immigration professionals for advice specific to your situation.