Notice on Suspension of Re-Entry Permit Exemption and Submission of Diagnosis for Re-Entry of Long-term Stayers

1. Suspension of Re-Entry Permit Exemption and Application for Re-Entry Permit

▪ Beginning June 1, 2020, registered aliens who are seeking re-entry into the ROK after departure are required to obtain a Re-Entry Permit in accordance with Article 30 of the Immigration Act, and leaving the Republic of Korea without a Re-Entry Permit will result in cancellation of Alien Registration.

▪ Yet, those with Diplomats (A-1), Government Officials (A-2, A-3) or Overseas Korean (F-4) status do not need to apply for a Re-Entry Permit, and are allowed to re-enter the ROK as previously done.

▪ Re-Entry Permit can be applied for at immigration offices across the nation including at the airports.

 2. Submission of Diagnosis for Re-Entry of Long-term Stayers

▪ Beginning June 1, 2020, registered aliens (except Diplomats (A-1), Government Officials (A-2, A-3) and Overseas Korean (F-4) status) seeking re-entry into the ROK after departure are required to undergo a medical examination related to COVID-19 within 48 hours prior to the date of departure for the ROK and carry and present a medical certificate (diagnosis) detailing the results to re-enter the ROK.

▪ Failure to undergo the examination or present a written diagnosis, and forging/falsifying documents or presenting false documents will result in denial of boarding and entry, and other disadvantages.

▪ Yet, those with a valid ‘Isolation Exemption Certificate’ issued by a Korean embassy or consular office are exempted from the obligation to submit a written diagnosis and are allowed to re-enter the ROK as an exception.