If you’re reading this, you’re probably in one of two situations: you just realized your stay period ended, or your flight changed and now you’re worried you’ll overstay. Either way—take a breath. The worst moves are usually made in panic.
This guide is not a “scare post.” It’s a practical, step-by-step way to reduce damage, using official contact routes and official announcements. Policies can change, so always verify details through the official Korea Immigration Service pages linked below.
Official Links (Start Here)
- Korea Immigration Service (English): https://www.immigration.go.kr/immigration_eng/
- Immigration Contact Center 1345 (English page): https://www.immigration.go.kr/immigration_eng/1862/subview.do
- 2025 Special Voluntary Departure Program (official announcement): https://www.immigration.go.kr/bbs/immigration_eng/229/601527/artclView.do
First: What “Overstay” Usually Means in Korea
In plain English, “overstay” means you remained in Korea beyond your permitted period of stay. What happens next can vary depending on your case (how long, prior history, visa type, and whether you self-report), but it can involve administrative measures such as fines and possible entry restrictions.
Important: Even “just one day” can still be an overstay. Don’t assume it’s automatically ignored—your safest path is to confirm your status and take action quickly.
Do NOT Do These Things (They Often Make the Situation Worse)
- Don’t “hide” and hope it disappears. Overstay doesn’t fix itself, and delay can worsen outcomes.
- Don’t rely on random internet fine calculators. Outcomes vary by case; verify via official channels.
- Don’t attempt a “visa run” plan without official guidance. Overstay can affect your ability to exit/re-enter smoothly.
- Don’t submit inconsistent explanations. If you talk to immigration, keep your story simple and document-based.
The Safest 3-Step Plan (What to Do Instead)
Step 1) Confirm what you actually need to fix. If you’re not sure whether you overstayed or you don’t understand your stay period, start by checking your application/status routes (visa portal vs HiKorea) and gather your key details (passport number, full name as on passport, dates).
Step 2) Contact Immigration through the official channel: 1345. Korea Immigration Service provides multilingual counseling via the Immigration Contact Center (1345). Use it to confirm what action applies to your case (self-reporting, office visit, departure procedure, etc.).
Official 1345 page: https://www.immigration.go.kr/immigration_eng/1862/subview.do
Step 3) Follow the instruction you receive (usually an office visit or a formal process). If immigration tells you to visit an office, go with the documents they request. If they provide a departure process for your situation, follow the official steps—not a “friend’s method.”
What to Prepare Before You Call 1345 (So You Don’t Waste the Call)
- Passport number
- Full name exactly as shown on passport
- Date of birth
- Your Korea address (if you have one)
- Entry date and the date you think your stay ended
- Any application/receipt numbers (if you filed anything via HiKorea)
When you call 1345, you can follow the ARS prompts and connect to a counselor. The official 1345 page explains multilingual consultation access. Keep your call focused: “I may have overstayed. What is the correct procedure for my case?” :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Special Case: Voluntary Departure Program (Dec 1, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026)
Korea Immigration Service published an official announcement about a “2025 Special Voluntary Departure Program” for illegal residents, effective December 1, 2025 through February 28, 2026. According to the announcement, eligible individuals who voluntarily depart during the program period may receive benefits such as exemption from fines and suspension of entry restrictions (eligibility exclusions apply). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Official announcement page (check eligibility and procedure): https://www.immigration.go.kr/bbs/immigration_eng/229/601527/artclView.do
Very important: This is not a “hack.” It’s an official program with eligibility rules and deadlines. If today’s date is close to the program end, don’t wait—verify immediately via 1345 or your jurisdiction office.
“If I Overstayed, Can I Just Leave at the Airport?”
People ask this because it feels like the simplest option. The risk is that your case may require a specific procedure, and the outcome can affect future entry. The smarter move is: contact 1345, confirm whether you need an advance report/office visit, and follow the official guidance for your exact situation. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
FAQ (Fast, Honest Answers)
Q1) I overstayed by 1 day. Is it serious?
It can still count as an overstay. Outcomes depend on your details and how you handle it. The best move is quick confirmation and guidance through 1345. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Q2) Will I automatically get banned from re-entering Korea?
Not always, but entry restrictions can be part of immigration outcomes depending on the case. Don’t guess—check your case via official channels. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Q3) Is there any official “self-departure” program right now?
There was an official Special Voluntary Departure Program announced for Dec 1, 2025 to Feb 28, 2026. Eligibility and benefits are described on the official Korea Immigration Service announcement page. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}