South Korea’s Voluntary Departure Program: A Guide for Undocumented Foreign Residents

South Korea’s Voluntary Departure Program: A Guide for Undocumented Foreign Residents



By Majella P. Pagayon

South Korea periodically implements Voluntary Departure Programs, allowing undocumented foreign residents to return to their home countries without incurring severe legal or financial penalties. These initiatives aim to facilitate compliance with immigration regulations while offering a structured and penalty-free departure process.

Program Overview

The most recent Voluntary Departure Program ran from September 30, 2024, to January 31, 2025. During this period, undocumented individuals could leave South Korea without facing fines or entry bans, which are typically imposed on visa overstayers.

This initiative provided an opportunity for affected individuals to depart without jeopardizing future reentry possibilities, thereby ensuring a smoother transition.

Step-by-Step Guide to Voluntary Departure

To take advantage of the program, eligible individuals needed to follow these steps:

1. Verify Eligibility

  • The program generally applied to those who entered South Korea legally but overstayed their visas.

  • Individuals who entered illegally or received prior deportation orders may not have qualified.

  • Individuals applying for the Voluntary Departure Program are not eligible if they are caught having changed their name upon entering Korea.

2. Submit a Declaration of Intent

  • File a preliminary declaration at least 15 days before your intended departure date.

  • This could be done at local immigration offices or online.

3. Gather Required Documents

  • Ensure you have a valid passport and necessary identification papers.

  • Additional documentation may have been required based on personal circumstances.

4. Plan and Schedule Departure

  • Arrange travel to exit South Korea via designated airports or ports.

  • Depart within the program's timeframe to qualify for exemptions.

5. Depart as Scheduled

  • Leaving within the approved period was essential to avoid penalties such as fines or entry bans.

Where to Seek Assistance

For official guidance and support, contact the Korea Immigration Contact Center (1344), which offers multilingual services. Additionally, it is advisable to consult official immigration sources to ensure you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your case.

Key Considerations

  • Immigration policies are subject to change without prior notice. Stay informed by checking official sources regularly.

  • Since the most recent Voluntary Departure Program has ended, undocumented residents should monitor future announcements for new opportunities to depart under favorable conditions.

For more details, visit the official Korea Immigration Service website or contact their support center for assistance.

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