Re-entry Permit
A system for registered foreigners to leave Korea and return on the same status. Registered foreigners can usually re-enter without a permit if they return within 1 year of departure (2 years for F-5 permanent residents). But if you plan to stay abroad longer, you must obtain a re-entry permit before leaving to keep your status (it varies by nationality/status, so always check).
What to prepare
- Passport
- ARC
- Integrated application form (re-entry permit application)
- (Depending on status) extra documents and fee
How to proceed
- 1Before leaving, check if your status is exempt (usually within 1 year; F-5 within 2 years)
- 2If you’ll stay abroad past the exempt period, apply for a re-entry permit before leaving (Hi Korea online or in person)
- 3A re-entry permit is valid only within your passport and stay validity — check the dates
- 4Re-enter within the permitted period
- 5For a long absence, make sure your stay won’t expire while you’re away
Tips
- ⚠️ Returning after the exempt period can cancel your status — always check before leaving.
- ⚠️ A re-entry permit must be obtained ‘before’ you leave — it’s hard to get once you’re abroad.
- Make sure your re-entry won’t clash with your stay’s expiry (expiring while abroad is a problem).
- Who’s exempt, the period, and fees vary by nationality/status — confirm with ☎1345 or Hi Korea.
Key contacts
- Immigration Contact Center ☎1345 (weekdays, multilingual)
- Hi Korea www.hikorea.go.kr (re-entry permit e-government)
Related guides
This is general information and has no legal force. Residence rules differ by visa, nationality, and situation and change often — always verify with official sources (Immigration Contact Center ☎1345, Hi Korea, an administrative agent).
Last updated: 2026-06-09