Legalization for Compatriots: New Details

On August 27, the HiKorea website published a Notice on Detailed Measures for Special Legalization for Ethnic Koreans.
We have already reported on the launch of this program, but important clarifications have now emerged, and it will be useful to convey them to Russian-speaking foreigners in Korea.

Many, finding themselves in a vulnerable position with an expired visa, are afraid to contact government agencies. To allay these doubts and reduce the burden on consultation centers, we have prepared an overview of key points.
If you plan to participate in the program, be sure to read the full translation of the document as well, so as not to miss the chance for legalization and to avoid mistakes.
Deportation when applying — is it possible?

No. The applicant first receives the result of the preliminary check by email. Only if the answer is positive can they visit the immigration office.
Therefore, deportation is not carried out during consultations or document submission.

The preliminary application form asks for an address, but only at the "city/district/county" level — to determine which immigration office will be responsible. Exact residency details are not disclosed.

Even if, during the review, it is decided that the applicant does not qualify for the program, this does not lead to deportation — instead, they are offered to voluntarily leave the country (exception: wanted cases).

Therefore, there is no need to be afraid — on the contrary, it is important to take advantage of this chance to restore your status, especially if you have visas such as F-4, H-2, as well as F-1 or F-3.
📌 Key points from the legalization program (2025)

1. Who can participate

• Ethnic Koreans with foreign citizenship whose period of stay expired before August 18, 2025.

• Their spouses and minor children.

• Those whose period expired after August 19, 2025, do not qualify for the program.

2. Application Period 

• From September 1 to November 28, 2025.

3. Procedure

• Preliminary check — application via email or through a consultation center.

• Response from the Ministry of Justice — whether an application can be submitted.

• Document preparation: medical certificate, certificate of completion of the adaptation program, proof of origin, etc.

• Application submission at the immigration office → fine with a 90% discount.

• Issuance of status:

  • F-4, H-2, F-1, F-3 can be restored directly in Korea.

  • C-3-8, F-6, etc. — you must leave and apply at the consulate.

4. Eligibility Conditions

• Absence of infectious diseases (mandatory medical certificate: tuberculosis, hepatitis, syphilis, drugs, psychological disorders).

• No significant tax or insurance debts (or an approved payment plan exists).

• No serious crimes or large fines (amount ≤ 7 million won in the last 3 years).

• Not subject to restrictions under the law on the status of compatriots (e.g., men who have not served or are not exempt from military service).

5. Fines

• Reduced by 90%.

• For adults: from 50,000 to 3,000,000 won (depending on the duration of overstay).

• For children and students — full exemption.

6. Responsibilities after legalization

• Participation in the social integration program.

• Upon extension — certificate of completion of the "Law-Abiding Citizen" course.

• Parents are obliged to ensure their children's education; upon extension, school certificates are required.

• Sign the "Participant's Commitment" (붙임 5).

7. Status Extension

• Typically, extensions are granted for 1 year.

• If conditions are met (taxes, no violations, participation in training), extensions can be granted further.

• Policy changes are possible — the extension period may be increased.