What Happens If You Overstay Your Visa in Korea (Penalties and Solutions)
Overstaying a visa in Korea can result in fines or bans, but early action and voluntary reporting may reduce penalties for foreigners.
Who This Guide Is For
This guide is for foreigners who accidentally overstayed their visa or are close to their expiration date in Korea.
What Counts as an Overstay?
- Staying past your visa expiration date
- Working after visa validity ends
- Ignoring pending application results
Penalties You May Face
- Fines depending on overstay length
- Visa cancellation
- Future entry restrictions
What to Do Immediately
- Check exact overstay duration
- Visit immigration voluntarily
- Prepare explanation documents
Can Penalties Be Reduced?
Voluntary reporting and short overstay periods may lead to reduced fines. Never attempt to leave Korea without addressing the issue.
If You Are Planning to Leave Soon
Immigration clearance is required before departure to avoid entry bans.
Related guide: how visa extensions work in Korea
Official immigration portal: https://www.hikorea.go.kr
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