Re-entry permits
To keep your status when leaving and returning, a re-entry permit may be needed. It is often waived, but always confirm in advance.
What to know
- Registered foreign residents returning within a set period are generally exempt from the permit.
- Returning after the exemption period can mean losing your status.
- Some statuses require a separate permit.
- Standards change, so check with 1345 or HiKorea before departing.
Steps
- Check as soon as you plan to travel. 1345 or HiKorea.
- Apply for a re-entry permit if needed — online on HiKorea or in person.
- Compare your expiry date with your return date. If your stay expires first, re-entry becomes a problem.
- Always carry your passport and Alien Registration Card when leaving and returning.
What you need
- Passport and Alien Registration Card
- Your travel dates (flight tickets)
- The fee, if applicable — check on HiKorea
Where to go
- HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr · 1345
- Your immigration office
- The immigration desk at the airport
Questions people ask
I'm going home for a month. Usually exempt, but check your remaining stay and status. If your period expires while you are away, it becomes a problem.
I must leave urgently for a family funeral. Even in a hurry, explain the situation at the airport immigration desk and confirm. You can also call 1345.
I returned after the exemption period. Your status may have lapsed. Explain at immigration inspection and contact 1345 immediately.
I need to travel in and out several times. Look into a multiple re-entry permit. See the multiple-reentry guide.
Take care
Always check your period of stay and re-entry conditions before departing. Leaving is easy; being unable to return is hard to undo. If an extension is under review, ask before you go.
Related
multiple-reentry · stay-extension-overview · alien-registration-card · overstay-consequences
Source
Ministry of Justice HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr / As of 2026-08