If a foreigner with an Alien Registration has left Korea, do they need a re-entry permit to come back in?

Even registered foreigners may need a re-entry permit before leaving Korea. However, most people are exempt if they return within the allowed period.

Re-entry permit exemption rules

• General registered foreigners: If you have completed your registration, you are exempt when you re-enter within 1 year from the day you left.
• If your remaining stay period is shorter than 1 year, the exemption applies only within that stay period.
• Permanent Resident (영주, F-5): You are exempt if you re-enter within 2 years from the day you left.¹
• Overseas Korean (재외동포, F-4): You are exempt if you leave and re-enter within your period of stay.
• Holders of a Refugee Travel Document (난민여행증명서): You are exempt if you re-enter within the validity period of the document.²

⚠️ Things to be careful about

• People subject to entry restrictions or visa issuance restrictions are not exempt. You must visit the Immigration Office (출입국·외국인청) (office or branch office) with jurisdiction over your place of residence to get a re-entry permit.
• If you plan to return after more than 1 year but within 2 years, you must get a multiple re-entry permit before you leave. The fee is 50,000 won, and you submit your passport, Alien Registration Card, and integrated application form. You can also apply through the online service of HiKorea (하이코리아).²
• Nationals of Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Libya are restricted from getting a multiple re-entry permit. However, people with F-6, D-2, or D-4 status can get one.³
• The range of statuses eligible for the exemption is worded a little differently in different sources. Be sure to check whether your status qualifies on HiKorea or by calling 1345.