IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? South Korea will observe a series of public holidays on May 3, 5 and 9. A number of South Korean companies will also observe May 2, 4 or both days as temporary holidays.

What does the change mean? Government offices will be closed and in-country immigration processing will be suspended on the public holidays (May 3, 5 and 9), while many South Korean companies will also be closed on May 2 and/or 4.

  • Implementation time frame: May 2-5 and May 9.
  • Visas/permits affected: All visas, permits and other immigration-related government services.
  • Who is affected: Anyone seeking immigration services in South Korea.
  • Impact on processing times: All in-country immigration processing and other government services will be suspended on the public holidays.
  • Business impact: Businesses may need to make minor adjustments to account for the holiday closures.
  • Next steps: Applicants should submit time-sensitive applications before the holidays if possible.

Background: Government offices will be closed May 3 for Buddha’s Birthday, May 5 for Children’s Day and May 9 for the country’s presidential election. Government offices, including immigration offices, will be open on May 2 and 4, but many South Korean companies will also be closed on either May 2 or May 4, or on both days.

BAL Analysis: Employers should plan for the upcoming office closures and, if needed, file time-sensitive applications and notifications before May 3. South Korean embassies and consulates around the world may be closed for the holidays as well, though schedules may vary.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in South Korea. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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