How to Check and Lift Entry Bans to Korea
When a foreign national becomes subject to an entry restriction (입국규제) in Korea, one of the most common questions is whether it’s possible to check the restriction status or request its removal from within Korea.
Checking Entry Restrictions from Abroad
As a rule, a person can confirm whether they are under an entry ban and how long it will last by contacting or visiting the Consular Section of a Korean Embassy or Consulate. The consular officer can inform you of the restriction period and provide guidance on possible next steps.
Checking Entry Restrictions from Within Korea
It is also possible to check an entry ban status while in Korea, but it must be done through a licensed attorney.
An attorney can request a confirmation of entry restriction on behalf of the foreign national by submitting the following documents:
- Power of Attorney for Legal Representation
- Application for Entry Restriction Inquiry
- Copy of the attorney’s bar ID
- Copy of the client’s passport or other valid identification
Once submitted, the Immigration Office will verify the individual’s entry restriction details and provide an official response through the attorney.
Can You Enter Korea Right After Voluntary Departure and Suspension of Entry Ban?
If an entry ban has been imposed, the Consulate generally will not accept a visa application while the ban remains active.
However, if the person has been granted a suspension of entry restriction (입국규제 유예), they may apply for a visa.
Still, the suspension does not automatically guarantee visa issuance; the application will be reviewed according to general visa criteria and individual circumstances.
Is There Any Way to Enter Korea During the Ban Period?
There are two main categories of lifting entry bans:
- General Lifting (일반해제) — The restriction is automatically lifted once the prescribed period expires.
- Special Lifting (특별해제) — A temporary or early lifting that can be granted before the restriction period ends, typically for humanitarian or national interest reasons.
Humanitarian Grounds for Special Lifting
To apply on humanitarian grounds, the applicant must submit supporting documents along with a written statement explaining the reason for the request. Helpful materials may include:
Petition or letter of appeal
Statement of remorse
Medical certificate or doctor’s opinion
Documents proving marriage or family relationships
Evidence of being a primary caregiver or parent
Examples of individuals who may qualify on humanitarian grounds include:
Spouses or immediate family members of Korean nationals, permanent residents, or recognized refugees
Persons with an established livelihood or family base in Korea
Pregnant women, parents of minor children, or guardians primarily responsible for childcare
Minors under 17 or elderly individuals over 56 (depending on living capacity and support in Korea)
Individuals with significant contributions to Korea
Persons requiring long-term medical treatment or rehabilitation in Korea
Parties to a domestic lawsuit requiring presence for an extended period
Stateless persons who cannot be repatriated
Others with comparable humanitarian circumstances
Applicants Benefiting the National Interest
A special lifting may also be granted if the individual demonstrates that their stay in Korea would serve the national interest, for example:
Foreign investors who have invested USD 500,000 or more and resided in Korea for over three years
Investors of USD 300,000 or more who employ at least two Korean nationals
Professionals with specialized knowledge or high-level technical expertise in fields such as industry, education, culture, arts, or sports
Other individuals deemed beneficial to Korea’s national interest
How to Apply for Lifting of Entry Restrictions
Applications for lifting entry bans must be submitted at a Korean Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s country of residence.
The applicant must file a Visa Application, Entry Restriction Lifting Request, and a Statement of Reasons.
The Consulate reviews the application materials and forwards them to the Minister of Justice through the Immigration Office that imposed the initial removal or deportation order. The Minister then decides whether to approve the lifting.
Once approved or denied, the decision is conveyed to the Consulate, which informs the applicant and grants (or refuses) the visa accordingly.