South Korea golden visa (investment immigration)

Principal-guaranteed, interest-free investment: the investor deposits the required amount in the public fund operated by the Korea Development Bank on behalf of the Ministry of Justice, and only the principal is returned after five years. Risk-based investment: the investor invests in development projects in less developed regions designated by the Minister of Justice, namely development promotion regions (Yeongju, Andong, Yecheon) and tourism and leisure enterprise cities (Taean, Yeongam, Haenam), and may gain or lose.

The minimum is KRW 500 million. Retiree investors over 55 may invest KRW 300 million, but together with their spouse they must also hold assets of KRW 300 million or more in Korea or abroad. Criminals, tax delinquents and those who have violated the Immigration Act four times or more cannot apply, although applicants who have paid overdue taxes become eligible.

Anyone staying longer than 90 days must register at the immigration office for their place of stay within 90 days of entry and receive a residence card (fee KRW 35,000). If you do not register, the visa is treated as invalid. A change of address must be reported within 15 days to the local district office or the immigration office. Single-entry long-stay visa holders need a re-entry permit before travelling abroad unless they hold a multiple-entry status.

The investor, the spouse and unmarried children receive the Resident (F-2) status, which permits free economic activity such as employment or business. After the investment has been maintained for at least five years, the investor and qualifying family members can change to Permanent Resident (F-5); the Enforcement Decree lists this route explicitly.