Can foreigners also use the Automated Immigration Clearance System (SES)?

Yes, foreigners can use the automated immigration clearance gate. The gate is open to both Koreans and foreigners. But whether you must register in advance depends on your type of stay.

How use differs by case

• Use without prior registration: Registered foreigners aged 17 or older who have completed alien registration can use it without registering. The same applies to overseas Koreans aged 17 or older who have completed domestic residence reporting.
• Use after prior registration: Children aged 7 or older and under 14 (consent of a legal guardian is required) and people aged 14 or older and under 17 must register first.
• Cannot use: Foreigners on a short-term stay cannot use it.

⚠️ Things to watch out for

• If your alien registration information or passport information has changed (passport reissue, validity extension, etc.), you must first have the change processed at the Immigration Office (immigration office, branch office or field office) (출입국·외국인청(사무소·출장소)) that has jurisdiction over your place of residence. Only then can you use the gate.
• If your period of stay ends within 1 month and the screen tells you to use the regular inspection counter, you must go to the regular counter.
• People who are banned from entry, or who are classified as ineligible in Korea, cannot use the gate.

💡 If you need to register in advance

The registration application needs no attached documents and no fee. Your fingerprints (both index fingers) and face information are collected. You can use the gate right away, from the day you register.

To check once more whether you need to register at your age and with your stay status, contact the nearest Immigration Office or the Foreigner Information Center (외국인종합안내센터) at 1345.