Can a foreigner receive the National Pension lump-sum refund when leaving Korea?

In some cases, yes. It depends on your nationality and your residence status.

Cases where you can receive it (if any one applies)

• You were enrolled under E-9, H-2, or E-8 (training and employment) status. It is paid regardless of nationality.¹ However, seasonal worker E-8 is not covered.¹
• You are a national of a country that has a social security agreement with Korea. Examples include the USA, Germany, Canada, Australia, France, and India.¹
• You are a national of a country that gives similar benefits to Koreans (reciprocity).²
• The list of countries and the minimum enrollment period requirements may change every year. Be sure to check the latest list.

Important points

• It is paid after your departure is confirmed. However, if you have a flight ticket leaving within 1 month, you can submit the claim form even before you leave.¹
• You cannot receive it just because you are going abroad temporarily for work or study.³
• If you receive it, your enrollment period disappears, so you cannot receive any other pension.³

How to claim

1. Visit a National Pension Service (국민연금공단) branch office in person.
2. If you are abroad, a representative in Korea can claim for you, or you can claim by mail yourself. [5]
3. If you leave through Incheon Airport, you can use the Airport Payment Service, which pays you in foreign currency cash on the day you leave. Your resignation must be reported by the day before departure, and it is not available for departures on weekends or public holidays. [5]

For details, contact the National Pension Service Call Center (국민연금 고객센터) at 1355.