There are cases where foreigners can enter Korea without a visa.
Scope of foreigners who can enter without a visa- A visa is a basic requirement for entry permission, and foreigners wishing to enter the Republic of Korea must have a valid passport and a visa issued by the Minister of Justice (Article 7(1) of the Immigration Act).
- However, foreigners who fall under any of the following can enter the Republic of Korea without a visa (Article 7(2) of the Immigration Act):
1. Those who have received re-entry permission or are exempt from re-entry permission and enter before the end of the permitted or exempted period;
※ “Re-entry permission” refers to the permission granted after review when foreigners who have registered or are exempt from registration under Article 31 of the Immigration Act, visit the local immigration office, or apply online for re-entry permission before leaving the country to maintain their residency status during their stay (see Article 30(1) of the Immigration Act).
2. Citizens of countries that have signed a visa waiver agreement with the Republic of Korea and are eligible for exemption under that agreement;
※ For more details on the visa waiver agreement, see this content <Visa - Entering Without a Visa-Visa Waiver Agreement>.
3. Those entering for international comity, tourism, or the interests of the Republic of Korea and have received separate entry permission as specified in Article 8 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act; or
※ For more details on the visa-free entry system, see this content <Visa-Entering Without a Visa-Entry by Designation without a Visa>.
4. Those who have been issued a refugee travel certificate and enter before its expiration.