Do I need a re-entry permit when I go home for a short visit on an E-9 visa?

No, usually you do not need a re-entry permit. If you have an E-9 alien registration, you can come back without a permit within 1 year of the day you leave Korea. If your remaining stay period is shorter than 1 year, you must return within that remaining period.

Most short trips home fit within this period. You do not need to apply for anything when you leave.

⚠️ Things to watch out for

• If your stay period ends first, you must return by that date. Be sure to check the expiry date on your Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증) before you leave.
• If you are subject to an entry restriction or a visa issuance restriction, the exemption does not apply. In this case, visit the immigration office (출입국·외국인청, 사무소 or 출장소) that covers your residence and get a re-entry permit. The fee is 30,000 KRW for a single permit and 50,000 KRW for a multiple permit.
• If you plan to stay abroad for 1 year or more, you must get a multiple re-entry permit. With this permit, you can stay abroad for up to 2 years. You can apply through the e-civil service on HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or at the immigration office.
• If your employment contract or work period ends during your vacation, the process for returning may be different. Before you leave, check first with your employer or the Employment Center (고용센터).

Before you leave, check the expiry date of your card and whether you have an entry restriction. If you have questions, check once more with HiKorea or the Foreigner Information Center (외국인종합안내센터, 1345).