OASIS for Foreign Entrepreneurs in South Korea

For foreign tech entrepreneurs aspiring to launch innovative startups in South Korea, the OASIS program stands as a transformative opportunity. Operated by the Global Startup Immigration Center and endorsed by the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Small and Medium Venture Businesses, OASIS offers comprehensive support tailored to fueling success in this dynamic Asian tech hub.

Designed specifically for foreign startups aiming to thrive in South Korea, OASIS provides vital assistance along with the coveted startup visa (D-8-4), enabling entrepreneurs to materialize their groundbreaking concepts. In this article, we explore the intricacies of the OASIS program, dissect its diverse offerings, and outline a systematic approach for foreign tech startups to secure the esteemed D-8-4 visa through OASIS.

Whether you're embarking on your first startup venture or seasoned in the entrepreneurial realm, this guide equips you with the knowledge and insights essential for navigating the South Korean startup landscape with confidence and success.

OASIS Courses:

Unlocking Potential: Navigating South Korea's Startup Ecosystem

Embark on a transformative journey with the OASIS program, offering a suite of courses tailored to empower foreign tech startups in navigating the complexities of the Korean business landscape. Dive into our comprehensive curriculum designed to equip entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and support necessary for success. Here's a breakdown of the key OASIS courses:

1. OASIS-1: Intellectual Property Fundamentals (15 Points)

Gain a foundational understanding of intellectual property rights essential for startup founders, covering topics from Korean society insights to idea improvement strategies.

2. OASIS-2: Advanced Intellectual Property Insights (25 Points)

Delve deeper into legal intricacies and practical applications of intellectual property, exploring patent litigation, invention development, and copyright nuances.

3. OASIS-3: Intellectual Property Application & Prototype Support

Receive assistance in navigating the application process for intellectual property rights, with financial support for patent, utility model, and design application expenses.

4. OASIS-4: Essential Start-up Class (25 Points)

Equip yourself with vital knowledge in immigration laws, business management, and market targeting, paving the way for successful business planning and execution.

5. OASIS-5: Personalized Coaching & Mentoring (15 Points)

Access tailored coaching and mentoring services focused on location selection, market research, and customer analysis, facilitating informed decision-making.

6. OASIS-6: Innovation Showcase & Networking (25 Points)

Seize opportunities to showcase your intellectual property ideas, connect with investors, and explore technology transactions and investment avenues.

7. OASIS-7: Graduation Incubation Program (15 Points)

Transition into a stable startup environment post-incubation, providing essential space and resources for continued growth.

8. OASIS-8: Corporate Establishment Assistance (15 Points)

Navigate administrative affairs and procedures for establishing a corporation, a prerequisite for obtaining the D-8-4 startup visa.

9. OASIS-9: Commercialization Support (25 Points)

Drive successful startup immigration through support for initial commercialization expenses, research and development, and post-management endeavors.

D-8-4 VISA Requirements

• Educational Credentials: Hold a Bachelor's or Associate's degree from Korea or possess a Global Start-up Immigration Center Letter.
• Accumulated Points: Attain a minimum of 80 points through participation in OASIS courses, IP applications, and relevant activities.
• Corporate Establishment: Establish a legal business entity in South Korea, a vital step towards securing the D-8-4 visa.

Navigating the D-8-4 Visa Process via OASIS:

Unlocking Opportunities: A Strategic Guide for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Embarking on the journey to secure a D-8-4 startup visa through the OASIS program involves strategic steps:

1. Initial Entry: Begin by entering South Korea on a short-term visa.

2. Enrollment in OASIS Courses: Enroll in pertinent OASIS courses like OASIS-1 and OASIS-4 to accrue requisite points.

3. Visa Transition to D-10-2: Upon completion of courses and point accumulation, apply to transition your visa status to D-10-2, enabling you to explore startup-related opportunities in South Korea.

4. Corporation Formation: Initiate the process of establishing your corporation within South Korea, navigating legal and administrative procedures to formalize your business entity.

5. Intellectual Property Application: If your venture involves intellectual property, commence the application process for IP protection.

6. Point Accumulation: Attain a minimum of 80 points through active participation in OASIS courses, IP applications, and other pertinent activities.

7. Visa Conversion to D-8-4: Upon meeting requirements, including reaching the 80-point threshold, apply for a conversion to the D-8-4 startup visa. Tailored for foreign entrepreneurs with innovative ventures, this visa grants authorization to reside and operate a startup in South Korea.

Reference: Global Startup Immigration Center

In Closing

In summary, the OASIS program serves as a pivotal avenue for foreign tech entrepreneurs aiming to establish a presence in South Korea's burgeoning startup ecosystem. By offering a pathway to the coveted D-8-4 startup visa and a suite of comprehensive courses, OASIS equips entrepreneurs with the tools for success in Korea's dynamic tech landscape. With strategic enrollment in OASIS courses and diligent navigation of the visa process, entrepreneurs can realize their aspirations of startup establishment in South Korea.

Pearson & Partners stands ready to facilitate your journey, offering expertise in incorporation and visa acquisition. Contact us to embark on your venture into South Korea's thriving startup ecosystem.