Gov't implements online prior notification system for undocumented immigrants

By Bahk Eun-ji

Undocumented immigrants who want to leave the country voluntarily can now use an online system to give prior notification to immigration authorities, following government measures to curb the spread of COVID-19, according to the Ministry of Justice, Thursday.

Undocumented immigrants staying illegally in the country wait to report their voluntary departure to an immigration office at Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul, March 6. Yonhap

Prior to October 2019, undocumented immigrants could leave the country voluntarily after reporting to immigration on the day of departure, as long as they were not under a travel ban. The regulation was then expanded to allow notification three to 15 days prior to departure.

Under the latest changes, undocumented immigrants can make an online advance report by registering their personal information, scheduled departure date, airport and flight number on HiKorea.go.kr, and print out a copy of the report. However, documents such as coronavirus tests showing negative results required by their home countries or airlines before departure must be prepared separately.

On the day of departure, departees can visit the airport or port immigration office where they plan to leave the country four hours prior to departure, submit the report, a copy of their passport and flight ticket, and pay any outstanding fines.

However, those with forged passports, illegal entrants or those with criminal records are restricted from using the prior report system, so they should visit their local immigration office in person prior to departure.

The online reporting system is not mandatory. Those who wish to do so may still visit an immigration office in person to report their departure.