Based on published Korean immigration guidelines. This is not legal advice. For your specific situation, consult a licensed immigration consultant (νμ μ¬) or attorney (λ³νΈμ¬).
D-8 β F-5: Change from D-8 to F-5
Korea Β· Visa Status Change
Timeline
4-8 weeks processing
Exit required?
In-country
Documents
7 required
Confidence
High
Key Requirements
5+ years of continuous residence in Korea on D-8 status, investment of USD 500,000 or more maintained throughout, and 5+ full-time Korean employees. KIIP Level 5 or equivalent Korean language proficiency. Clean criminal record and full tax compliance.
Required Documents
- FDI registration certificate
- Investment proof (5-year capital verification)
- Employee records (5+ Korean nationals)
- Tax payment records (5 years)
- KIIP Level 5 completion certificate
- ARC
- Criminal background check
Process Timeline
- 1
Prepare documents
Gather all 7 required documents listed above
- 2
Submit application
Submit at local Immigration Office (μΆμ κ΅κ΄λ¦¬μ¬λ¬΄μ) in Korea
- 3
Processing
4-8 weeks processing
- 4
Receive new ARC
Pick up updated Alien Registration Card
Important Notes
Direct permanent residence path for long-term D-8 investors. Published guidelines (F-5-5) require 5 years of continuous D-8 residence, USD 500,000+ investment, and 5 Korean employees. The D-8 β F-2-5 β F-5 route is an alternative that may allow earlier application.
Last updated: 2026-03-18
Other paths from D-8
Information for general reference only. Final decisions on visa status changes rest solely with Korea Immigration Service. Requirements may change β always verify with the official source before applying.