Short answer: K-Startup Grand Challenge (KSGC) and OASIS offer startup preparation and visa support. To confirm whether a visa permits repeated entry, its validity period and its application fee, check the official immigration channel before making travel plans.
Status as of 2026-11-03: KSGC 2026 applications are closed. The deadline was June 17, 2026 at 15:00 KST.
For prospective technology founders, OASIS describes a sequence from basic startup training to D-10-2 startup preparation status, followed by a D-8-4 application once the necessary points and requirements are met.
Key facts
| Visa types covered | D-10-2 Startup Preparation Visa and D-8-4 Technology Startup Visa. |
|---|---|
| Who it is for | OASIS basic startup training serves prospective founders with a technology-based business idea. |
| Main requirement | Applicants must meet the necessary points and requirements before applying for D-8-4. |
| Multiple entry and validity | Check the official immigration channel for confirmation for your intended visa. |
| Cost | Check the visa application fee with the official immigration channel and any course or support charges with the program. |
| KSGC application period | May 6, 2026–June 17, 2026 at 15:00 KST. Closed. |
| Official sites | OASIS courses and applications; KSGC program information |
Who can apply
OASIS basic startup training allows participants holding a short-term or student visa. Their business idea must qualify as a technology startup. Selection depends on a review committee’s evaluation of the submitted business item.
For OASIS corporation-establishment support, the required business form is a corporation. A liaison office, branch office, sole proprietorship or nonprofit organization does not qualify. OASIS requires D-10-2 status for this incorporation stage and excludes incorporation while holding tourist or student status.
KSGC has separate conditions. The startup’s CEO or representative founder must hold non-Korean citizenship, and all CEOs must be foreign nationals. Korean co-founders and team members may participate. Early-stage startups and pre-startup teams are welcome, and no incorporated company or Korean legal entity is required at application. KSGC seeks teams ready to enter Korea with an MVP, traction or validated technology. The 2026 application round is closed.
What you get
OASIS Basic Start-up Class carries 10 points and provides an OASIS Certificate upon completion. Corporation-establishment support carries 15 points and covers preparation, administrative procedures and corporate registration guidance.
KSGC’s Phase 2 includes D-10-2 visa support and incorporation consulting. Phase 3 includes D-8-4 visa support and requires legal entity incorporation and local hiring.
Phase 2 teams may receive up to KRW 8 million per team, with up to KRW 4 million per visit for two visits, toward travel and stay costs for designated KSGC activities in Korea. Selected teams receive detailed guidelines in advance.
How to apply (step by step)
- Prepare your technology business idea. For OASIS basic training, the review committee evaluates the submitted business item. Use the official OASIS schedule page to access the relevant course’s Apply link and check its application window.
- Follow the course selection process. Successful applicants receive individual email notifications. Training takes place offline, and participants receive a certificate after completion.
- Follow the preparation-status sequence. OASIS describes changing to D-10-2 after training to begin incorporation and business setup. Its corporation-establishment support accepts applications on request through the same schedule page.
- Meet the D-8-4 requirements before applying. Applicants may apply once the necessary points and requirements are fulfilled. Check the official immigration channel for the required visa form, supporting documents and processing time.
FAQ
Do I need an MVP for OASIS mentoring?
Yes. OASIS-5 coaching and mentoring requires a clearly defined business idea and an MVP. It consists of three sessions, with an assigned task to complete before moving to the next session.
Must KSGC participants relocate to Korea?
Relocation is not strictly required. However, some key events require attendance in person. Major activities are grouped into Core Weeks, typically about two weeks per month.
Can KSGC provide visa recommendation letters for co-founders?
For startups establishing a Korean entity, D-8-4 recommendation letters may be issued for up to three founders or co-founders of that entity, subject to applicable requirements.
Can a startup join another program while participating in KSGC?
Yes, provided there are no conflicts with KSGC schedules or commitments. Teams must remain actively engaged in KSGC activities throughout the program.