How to Get a Startup Visa in Korea in 2025 [Step-by-Step Guide] 

Korea is quickly emerging as a vibrant hub for global startups and innovation. For many foreign entrepreneurs, the startup visa is a golden ticket to tap into Korea’s dynamic market, robust infrastructure, and supportive business ecosystem. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step 2025 startup visa process, offering insights and tips along the way to help you confidently navigate the journey.

What Is a Startup Visa in Korea?

A startup visa in Korea is a specialized permit that allows innovative foreign entrepreneurs to establish and grow their businesses. This visa provides not only entry into the Korean market but also access to resources like mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and various government incentives aimed at nurturing new ventures.

Benefits of Securing a Korean Startup Visa

• Access to a Thriving Business Environment: Leverage Korea’s advanced technology, infrastructure, and strong market demand.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with local industry experts, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs.

• Tailored Support Programs: Benefit from government initiatives, tax incentives, and startup accelerators designed specifically for emerging businesses.

• Gateway to Asia: Use Korea as a launching pad for broader regional expansion.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Korea Startup Visa

Step 1: Evaluate Your Eligibility

Before diving into the application process, assess whether your business concept meets Korea’s eligibility criteria for either the Startup Preparation Visa or the Startup Visa, Typically, you’ll need:

• A clear and innovative business plan.

• Evidence of sufficient financial backing while staying in Korea.

• Professional or academic credentials [this will be waived if you apply for the Special Startup visa].

• A demonstration of potential market impact.

💡Tip: Evaluate your readiness using SkalePLUS  visa tool (Login>Personal Dashboard>K Startup Visa Oasis>click on Check Eligibility– the only tool offering a comprehensive assessment for both the Preparation Visa and the Startup Visa processes in English, accessible from anywhere in the world. This specialized tool streamlines your eligibility evaluation, ensuring you meet all requirements before you begin your application.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Documents

Organize your documents carefully for a successful application. Typical documentation includes:

For the Startup Preparation Visa:

• A preliminary business plan detailing your idea and market research.

• Basic financial projections and funding strategies.

• Personal identification and credentials. 

💡Tip: For a complete list, prepare your application with SkalePLUS Visa Tool by selecting D10-2 > Start Application. All necessary documents will appear in the summary page.

For the Startup Visa:

• A more detailed business plan, refined from your preparation phase.
• Comprehensive financial projections and evidence of secured or potential funding.
• Updated supporting documents as required by the Korean authorities.

  💡Tip: For a complete list, prepare your application with SkalePLUS Visa Tool by selecting D8-4> Start Application. All necessary documents will appear in the summary page.

💡Tip: Use SkalePLUS Korea Startup Visa tool which not only helps you assess your eligibility but also guides you through preparing all the necessary documents for both visa types.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once your print your application and document checklist through SkalePLUS visa tool, then are ready, submit your application through the appropriate Korean visa office or online portal hikorea.go.kr .

Ensure that:

• All information in the forms prepared online using SkalePLUS is accurate.
• Required documents are attached in the proper format as indicated on your SkalePLUS produced checklist.
• You keep digital copies of every submission.

💡Tip: If you need to correct your application, you can simply edit the information on SkalePLUS and regenerate the PDF. Don't forget to sign and date before submission to immigration.

Step 4: Follow Up and Await Approval

After submission, your application enters a review phase. During this time:

• Monitor your application status through by calling 1345.

• Stay alert for requests for additional information or clarification.

• Be prepared for an interview or further documentation if requested.

💡Tip: Waiting time varies by citizenship, visa type, or individual's situation. 

Step 5: Launch Your Entrepreneurial Journey

Once approved, your Startup Visa opens the door to officially establishing your business in Korea. With your visa:

• Set up your local operations.

• Leverage Korea’s extensive network of mentors, service providers, and investors that you connect with through joining vibrant communities like SkalePLUS and SSC, the Startups Club.

• Begin scaling your startup with the support of a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

💡Tip: Consider joining an online community such as SSC, the Startups Club or use resources available on SkalePLUS (https://www.SkalePlus.com )platform, both are dedicated to startup support, where you can access additional resources, network with local experts, and connect with a marketplace of legal, accounting, and consulting services—all designed to accelerate your growth in Korea and beyond.

Conclusion

Navigating Korea’s startup visa process can seem daunting, but with a systematic approach and the right tools, you can move confidently through each stage—from the Preparation Visa to the Startup Visa. SkalePLUS is uniquely positioned to help you at every step, offering a comprehensive eligibility assessment, guided online visa preparation tool,  visa point calculation, and document requirements based on your the visa you are applying to- all in English, accessible from anywhere in the world.

By following this guide and leveraging tools like SkalePLUS, you’ll be well-prepared to meet Korea’s visa requirements and launch your business in one of Asia’s most innovative markets.