South Korea offers a unique residency program known as the Immigrant Investor Scheme for Public Business (IISPB). This program allows eligible foreign nationals to obtain a Korean resident visa by investing in a government-designated public investment fund.
Introduced by the Ministry of Justice, the IISPB is designed to attract foreign capital to boost the domestic economy—primarily funding small-and-medium enterprises (SMEs) and regional development projects through the Korea Development Bank (KDB).
In exchange for this capital, the Korean government grants the investor, their spouse, and unmarried children a Resident (F-2) or Permanent Resident (F-5) visa.
- No Language or Education Requirements: Unlike points-based resident visas, you do not need to speak Korean or hold specific academic degrees.
- Flexible Residence Upkeep: To maintain your F-2 status, you only need to enter South Korea once a year (for F-5 permanent residents, once every two years).
- Complete Economic Freedom: Holders of F-2 and F-5 visas are legally permitted to work, set up businesses, study, or retire in Korea with zero restrictions.
The investment must remain in place for the required period. If the investment is withdrawn prematurely, the visa status may be affected and eligibility for permanent residency may be lost.
Advantages of the Public Business Investment Visa
1. No Business Management Requirement
Unlike the D-8 Corporate Investment Visa, investors are not required to establish a company, hire employees, or engage in active business operations.
2. Freedom of Economic Activity
F-2 status generally permits broad economic activities in Korea, including employment and business activities.
3. Family Benefits
The investor’s spouse and dependent unmarried children may accompany the principal applicant.
4. Pathway to Permanent Residency
After maintaining the investment and satisfying immigration requirements, the investor may apply for F-5 permanent resident status.
※ Investment thresholds, designated funds, and immigration requirements may change from time to time. Therefore, applicants should obtain professional immigration and investment guidance before proceeding.