Recognition of Refugee Status
What is a “refugee?”
The term “refugee” means a foreigner who is unable or does not desire to receive protection from the nation of his/her nationality in well-grounded fear that he/she is likely to be persecuted based on race, religion, nationality, the status of a member of a specific social group, or political opinion, or a stateless foreigner who is unable or does not desire to return to the nation in which he/she resided before entering the Republic of Korea (hereinafter referred to as “nation of settlement”) in such fear. (Article 2 (1) of the Refugee Act)
Application for Recognition of Refugee Status
Where to apply
- Stateless foreigners in the Republic of Korea must apply for refugee status with the local immigration office or foreigner-related office (immigration agency, foreigner-related agency, immigration office, foreigner-related office, branch office, immigration processing center, etc.).
- Stateless foreigners entering or landing in the Republic of Korea must submit an application form for refugee status to the head of the local immigration office or foreigner-related office having jurisdiction over the port of entry and departure.
When to apply
- Foreigners entering or landing in the Republic of Korea can apply for refugee status regardless of their period of stay from the date of entry or landing.
- The application form for recognition of refugee status at the port of entry and departure should be submitted during the immigration process.
Documents to be submitted
- Application form for recognition of refugee status
- Passport (Provided, That where it is impossible to present a passport or other documents due to unavoidable reasons such as escaping from an imminent threat to life or body, a written explanatory statement thereon.)
Documents that provide evidence that the applicant needs refugee status in the Republic of Korea
- One (1) color photo of the applicant (3.5cm × 4.5cm)
- Reference documents, etc. for refugee status screening (documents, photos, videos, etc.)
- A physical examination report and other documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc. if he/she is accompanied by his /her spouse or child/children) may be required where an application for recognition of refugee status is submitted while staying in Korea.