South Korea Voluntary Departure Program Dec 2025 – Feb 2026: What Foreigners Need to Know
From December 1, 2025 to February 28, 2026, South Korea’s Ministry of Justice is implementing a Special Voluntary Departure Program for undocumented foreigners. This temporary program offers significant relief compared to standard voluntary departure procedures—but it is not a blanket amnesty, and it does not apply to everyone.
Pureum Law Office is here to explain: 1) who should seriously consider using this program; 2) how it differs from normal voluntary departure; and 3) what “entry restriction suspension” really means.
Who Should Use the Voluntary Departure Program
This program is especially worth considering for undocumented foreigners who:
- Overstayed their visa unintentionally (e.g., missed an extension deadline)
- Have no criminal record and are not subject to compulsory deportation
- Want to leave Korea safely without facing heavy fines
- Plan to return to Korea in the future for work, study, family, or business
- Are parents or guardians departing with children under 17, as fines may also be waived in those cases
For many individuals, this program presents a rare opportunity to reset their immigration situation with fewer long-term consequences—if handled correctly.
However, it is not suitable for everyone. Individuals who entered Korea illegally, used forged documents, committed criminal offenses, failed to comply with a departure order, or became undocumented after December 1, 2025 are excluded.
Normal Voluntary Departure vs Special Program
Under normal voluntary departure rules, undocumented foreigners typically face:
- Monetary penalties (fines) for illegal stay
- Mandatory entry bans, often lasting several years
- Limited flexibility in how future visa applications are evaluated
Under the Special Voluntary Departure Program:
- Fines are fully waived
- Entry restrictions may be suspended even without paying penalties
- The process is designed to encourage voluntary compliance rather than punishment
This marks a significant policy shift. However, enforcement activities continue during the program period. Those who are caught during inspections may still face forced deportation and stricter entry bans.
What Does “Entry Restriction Suspension” Really Mean
One of the most misunderstood aspects of this program is the phrase “entry restriction suspension.”
Note:
- It does not guarantee re-entry
- It does not approve future visas automatically
- It does not erase your overstay history
- Each future visa application will still be reviewed individually
In other words, this program reduces negative consequences, but it does not eliminate immigration discretion.
The Special Voluntary Departure Program offers a limited 90-day window for eligible undocumented foreigners to leave Korea with fewer penalties. While the benefits are substantial, the risks of misunderstanding or misusing the program are real.
Before making any decision, it is strongly recommended to speak with a qualified immigration professional. A legal consultation will help you avoid future visa issues and ensure you understand how this program applies to your specific situation.
Our office assists foreigners with voluntary departure, immigration compliance, and future visa planning. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
