IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The government is automatically extending the period of stay for registered aliens and F-4 residents to April 30, 2020.

What does the change mean? Registered aliens and F-4 residents whose period of stay is due to expire between Feb. 24 and April 29, 2020 do not have to apply for extension.

  • Implementation time frame: Feb. 24.
  • Visas/permits affected: F-4 visas and ARCs.
  • Who is affected: Registered aliens and Overseas Korean residents (F-4) whose period of stay is due to expire between Feb. 24 and April 29, 2020, and who are legally staying in South Korea.
  • Next steps: Foreign nationals who receive a text message from the immigration authority can check their visa status at www.hikorea.go.kr.

Background: The automatic extension is an effort to reduce unessential visits to immigration offices amid growing concerns over community spread of the coronavirus.

Analysis & Comments: The automatic extension is good news for registered aliens and F-4 residents, as it will save them the time of having to apply in person. The following categories, however, are excluded from the automatic extension:

  • Non-Professional (E-9), Maritime Crew (E-10) and those whose whereabouts are unknown.
  • Those who have already applied for Permission to Extend Period of Stay either in-person or online (Normal Period of Stay to be granted on the basis of review criteria).

Deloitte will continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available.

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