Understanding Re-entry Permit in Korea
South Korea is a popular destination for tourists and expats alike. If you are planning to visit or reside in the country, it is essential to know the rules and regulations for entering and exiting the country. In particular, you need to understand the concept of re-entry permit and how long it is valid.
What is a Re-entry Permit?
A re-entry permit is an official document that allows foreign nationals to leave and return to South Korea without having to apply for a new visa. It is a must-have for people who wish to travel outside the country temporarily while holding a valid visa.
Why Do You Need a Re-entry Permit?
If you leave South Korea without a re-entry permit, your visa will become invalid, and you will have to apply for a new one once you return. This process can be lengthy and costly. A re-entry permit saves you time and money by allowing you to leave and return without the need for a new visa.
- Talk To Me In Korean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 164 Pages - 09/21/2015 (Publication Date) - Longtail Books (Publisher)
- Kim, Woojoo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 11/23/2021 (Publication Date) - Tuttle Publishing (Publisher)
How Long is a Re-entry Permit Valid?
A re-entry permit in South Korea is valid for up to two years from the date of issuance. This means that you can leave and return as many times as you want within this period without having to apply for a new permit. However, if your visa expires before the two-year period, your re-entry permit will also become invalid.
Can You Extend Your Re-entry Permit?
If you need more time to travel outside of South Korea, you can extend your re-entry permit by applying at the immigration office. The extension period varies depending on your situation and reason for extending. However, note that you cannot extend your re-entry permit beyond the expiration date of your visa.
How to Apply for a Re-entry Permit?
To apply for a re-entry permit in South Korea, you need to visit the immigration office and submit the necessary documents, including your passport, visa, and proof of travel. You will also need to pay a fee for the permit.
What Happens if You Don’t Have a Re-entry Permit?
If you leave South Korea without a re-entry permit, your visa will become invalid, and you will have to apply for a new one once you return. This process can be lengthy and costly. You may also face difficulties entering the country again if your visa has expired or if you have violated any immigration laws.
Who Needs a Re-entry Permit?
All foreign nationals holding a valid visa in South Korea and planning to leave the country temporarily must obtain a re-entry permit. This includes tourists, students, and workers.
Can You Leave and Return Without a Re-entry Permit?
No, you cannot leave and return to South Korea without a re-entry permit if you plan to use the same visa. If you leave without one, your visa will become invalid, and you will have to apply for a new one once you return.
What Are the Consequences of Violating Re-entry Permit Rules?
If you violate re-entry permit rules in South Korea, such as overstaying your visa or not obtaining a re-entry permit when required, you may face consequences such as fines, deportation, and restrictions on future visits to the country.
Conclusion
A re-entry permit is an essential document for anyone planning to leave South Korea temporarily while holding a valid visa. It saves time and money by allowing you to return without having to apply for a new visa. Remember to apply for a re-entry permit before leaving the country to avoid any issues when you return.
How long is re-entry permit valid?
Reentry permits usually have a validity of 2 years starting from the date they are issued. Getting a reentry permit may be necessary if you intend to travel outside the United States but cannot or prefer not to obtain a passport from your country of origin.
How many times can I use re-entry permit?
- Talk To Me In Korean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 164 Pages - 09/21/2015 (Publication Date) - Longtail Books (Publisher)
- Kim, Woojoo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 11/23/2021 (Publication Date) - Tuttle Publishing (Publisher)
When filing Form I-131 for a re-entry permit in the United States, you must be physically present and attend a biometrics appointment. To apply for a new permit, you must surrender your existing re-entry permit. There is not a set limit on how many times you can apply for a re-entry permit.
Do I still need a reentry permit in Korea?
Starting on April 1, 2022, long-term visa holders who have finished their alien registration will be able to travel outside of South Korea without needing to get a re-entry permit. Currently, the government cancels the visas of foreign nationals who leave South Korea without obtaining a re-entry permit.
How long can I stay abroad with reentry permit?
The USCIS re-entry permit allows a person to stay outside of the United States for up to two years without losing their status.
Can my re-entry permit be denied?
It is possible that your application for a re-entry permit may be denied. However, submitting all necessary documents along with your initial permit may help to prevent this from happening. If you do receive a denial, you have the option to dispute the decision within 33 days.
Can a US citizen stay out of the country for more than 6 months?
Even though the regular time limit is one year, certain individuals such as military service members, government employees, or those who work for a US multinational can extend their stay in the US and still maintain their citizenship. To do so, they must meet specific criteria or proactively maintain their residence. This information was last updated on February 18, 2023.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a re-entry permit only allows you to leave and return to South Korea. It does not guarantee entry into the country or exempt you from fulfilling other immigration requirements, such as providing valid documentation or passing security checks upon arrival.
It is also essential to note that a re-entry permit does not extend the validity of your visa. Therefore, if your visa expires while you are outside of South Korea, you will need to apply for a new one before returning.
If you are unsure whether you need a re-entry permit or how to obtain one, it is best to consult with the Korean embassy or consulate in your home country or seek advice from an immigration lawyer.
In conclusion, understanding the concept of a re-entry permit is crucial for anyone planning to travel outside of South Korea while holding a valid visa. Obtaining a re-entry permit can save time and money, but it is essential to adhere to the rules and regulations surrounding it to avoid any issues upon your return.
