Can I leave Korea after entering on a C-3 and come back in right away?

Yes. There is no rule that blocks you from coming back right after you leave. But with a C-3, immigration reviews your purpose and length of stay again each time you enter. You can enter only if the officer allows it.

Re-entry permit does not apply to C-3

The re-entry permit exemption applies only to long-term residents who have an alien registration. It covers people with a status from Diplomat (A-1) to Accompanying Family (F-3), and from Marriage Migrant (F-6) to Other (G-1). Short-term Visit (C-3) is not included. When you leave on a C-3, that stay ends. To come back, you need a visa or visa-free entry eligibility.

What to check when you come back

• Multiple-entry visa holders: You can enter again while the visa is valid. You get a new period of stay each time you enter.
• Single-entry visa holders: The visa ends after one use. You must get a new visa.
• Visa-free (visa waiver) entrants: You must meet the visa-free conditions that apply to your country again.

⚠️ Points to be careful about

• If you leave and come right back and keep staying, the officer may see this as actually trying to stay long-term or work. You may be refused entry.
• A C-3 cannot be issued for profit-making purposes. Work for pay that provides certain labor or skills is not covered.
• If you need to stay in Korea for more than 90 days, first check whether you can get an extension or a change of status, rather than leaving again and again. A C-3 extension is possible within 90 days from your entry date, if your activity is within the allowed scope, there is no suspicion of illegal work, and the need is recognized.

Bring documents that prove your purpose and schedule (round-trip air ticket, invitation letter, accommodation booking, etc.). The rules may differ by nationality or visa type. Check again with the Foreigner Comprehensive Information Center (외국인종합안내센터) at 1345 or HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr).