Passport renewal in South Korea
Renewing a South Korean passport typically involves submitting an application, required documents, and a photograph to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a relevant diplomatic mission. The process can often be completed in person, with some options for proxy application under specific conditions.
It is generally advisable to apply for a passport renewal several months before the current passport's expiration date or before planned international travel. This allows ample time for processing, which can vary, and accounts for potential appointment waiting times at application centers or diplomatic missions.
Start 30 days ahead
This lead time accounts for typical processing durations and potential administrative delays, including the time it might take to secure an appointment at a passport office or diplomatic mission.
The process
- 1Confirm eligibility for renewal and identify the nearest passport office or diplomatic mission where applications are accepted.
- 2Gather all necessary documents, including the current passport, a recent passport-sized photograph, and any identification documents required.
- 3Complete the passport renewal application form, ensuring all information is accurate and matches supporting documents.
- 4Pay the applicable passport renewal fee.
- 5Submit the application and supporting documents in person at a passport office or a Korean diplomatic mission abroad. In some cases, proxy application may be permitted under specific conditions.
- 6Collect the new passport once it has been processed and issued. This often requires bringing the receipt and current identification.
What to bring
- Current South Korean passport
- Completed passport application form
- One recent passport-sized color photograph (meeting specific biometric requirements)
- Resident registration card (주민등록증) or other valid identification, if applying in South Korea
- Proof of legal status in the foreign country, if applying abroad (e.g., visa, residence permit)
- Any required supporting documents for specific cases (e.g., minor applicants, name changes)
Who handles it
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (대한민국 외교부)
Passport fees vary depending on the type of passport (e.g., 10-year, 5-year, age-restricted) and the number of pages. Applicants should confirm the current fee schedule with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the specific diplomatic mission where they plan to apply.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure the submitted photograph meets strict biometric specifications, as incorrect photos are a common reason for application delays.
- Verify the specific application requirements, as procedures and required documents can differ slightly between domestic passport offices and overseas diplomatic missions.
- Be aware that passport issuance for minors has specific regulations, often requiring parental consent and presence.
- Check the validity period of the new passport, as certain types (e.g., for minors or those with specific situations) may have shorter validity.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Other documents in South Korea
Passport renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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