Avoiding brokers and fraud

There is no way to buy residence status with money. Anyone who says otherwise is running a scam.

Common tricks

• "I know someone at immigration" — no such route exists.
• "Send the fee first and I'll handle it" — they take it and disappear.
• "I'll make the documents for you" — using forged papers is punishable for the user too.
• "I'll put your name on a company" — it becomes a far bigger problem later.
• "Marry and it's solved" — a sham marriage is punishable for both parties.
• Often they gain trust by being from your country. Shared origin is not a guarantee.

Telling real from fake

• Official advice is always free. 1345, 132 and support organisations take no money.
• Administrative scriveners and lawyers hold public credentials — you can look up the name.
• A legitimate representative gives you a contract and receipts. Cash-only demands are a warning sign.
• Pressure to "decide today" strongly suggests a scam.

If you have already paid

Don't give up because it feels too late.

• You can report fraud to 112.
• Gather conversation records, transfer records, and their account number.
• You can report fraud even while undocumented. If worried, go with a support organisation.
• 132 provides free legal advice.

If you already have forged documents

Do not use them. Using them makes you liable too, and makes your residence situation much worse. Get advice first.

Free help

• 1345 Immigration Contact Centre (20 languages)
• 132 Korea Legal Aid Corporation
• 112 police (fraud reports)
• Local migrant support organisations

Source

Ministry of Justice HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr · National Police Agency www.police.go.kr / As of 2026-08