What is the difference between D-8 Executive Transfer and D-7 Intra-company Transfer?

D-8 Executive Transfer is for registered executives of foreign-invested companies, while D-7 is for non-executive employees dispatched from overseas headquarters. D-8 requires meeting investment requirements (KRW 100 million or more).

Can I be dispatched as an executive without any investment?

The D-8 visa requires meeting investment requirements under the Foreign Investment Promotion Act. If only management dispatch is involved without investment, D-7 visa may be more appropriate.

D-8 Executive Transfer Visa | Foreign-Invested Company Executive | VISION

Overview

The D-8 Executive Transfer Visa is issued to executives (directors, auditors, etc.) dispatched from an overseas parent company to a foreign-invested company in Korea (subsidiary, joint venture, etc.). The applicant must be registered as an executive officer in the corporate registry of a company qualifying under the Foreign Investment Promotion Act. Investment amount and company performance are key review factors.

Target Applicants

Executives dispatched from an overseas parent company to a Korean subsidiary
Foreigners appointed as registered directors or auditors of a foreign-invested company
Management dispatched from a partner company to a joint venture
Foreigners appointed as CEO of a newly established foreign-invested company

Eligibility

1Registered as an executive officer (director/auditor) of a foreign-invested company
2Meet investment requirements under the Foreign Investment Promotion Act (minimum KRW 100 million / approx. USD 75,000)
3Evidence of executive activities at the company (board meeting minutes, etc.)
4No criminal record or entry ban history

Required Documents

Visa application form
Passport copy
Photo (3.5x4.5cm)
Foreign-invested company registration certificate
Corporate registry (confirming executive registration)
Dispatch order or executive appointment resolution
Parent company business registration and corporate registry
Investment remittance proof
Business plan

Process

Processing Time: Approximately 2-4 weeks

Investment & Company Establishment

Foreign investment report and establishment/registration of Korean corporation

Executive Registration

Document Preparation

Prepare dispatch order, investment proof, and other required documents

Visa Application

Apply for D-8 visa at immigration office or Korean embassy

Visa Issuance

Visa issued after review (approx. 2-4 weeks)

Important Notes

•If you are not registered as an executive in the corporate registry, D-8 executive transfer status will not be recognized.
•Visa extension may be denied if the company has no substantial business activity.
•Spouse and minor children can apply for F-3 dependent visa.

D-8 Executive Transfer Visa