1. What is a re-entry permit and why is it important for U.S. citizens in South Korea?

A re-entry permit is a travel document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to lawful permanent residents and U.S. citizens who intend to travel abroad for an extended period of time without jeopardizing their residency status in the United States. This document allows the individual to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad for up to two years without having to obtain a returning resident visa. For U.S. citizens in South Korea, obtaining a re-entry permit is important as it allows them to maintain their status as U.S. citizens while living or working abroad for an extended period. This is especially crucial for those who plan to stay in South Korea for more than one year, as it ensures that they can return to the U.S. without any issues or disruptions to their residency rights.

2. How long does a re-entry permit allow me to stay outside of the U.S. without losing my permanent resident status?

A re-entry permit allows a U.S. permanent resident to stay outside of the United States for up to two years without losing their immigration status. This means that you can remain outside of the U.S. for a continuous period of up to two years without needing to reapply for your green card upon your return. If you need to stay outside of the U.S. for more than two years due to unavoidable circumstances, you may be able to apply for a re-entry permit renewal or apply for a Returning Resident visa at a U.S. consulate abroad to facilitate your return without losing your permanent resident status. It is essential to plan and consider your travel and time outside of the U.S. carefully to maintain your status as a permanent resident.

3. Can I apply for a re-entry permit while living in South Korea as a U.S. citizen?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen living abroad, including in South Korea, you can apply for a re-entry permit. Here’s how you can do so:

1. Fill out Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, available on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
2. Prepare supporting documentation, such as proof of your U.S. citizenship, a valid reason for needing a re-entry permit, and evidence of your residence in South Korea.
3. Submit your application by mail to the appropriate USCIS Lockbox facility.
4. Attend a biometrics appointment at a designated USCIS Application Support Center, if required.
5. Wait for USCIS to process your application, which can take several months.
6. Once approved, you can pick up your re-entry permit at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

Remember to start the application process well in advance of your planned travel outside the United States to ensure you have the necessary documentation to re-enter the country.

4. What are the eligibility requirements for obtaining a re-entry permit as a U.S. citizen living in South Korea?

As a U.S. citizen living in South Korea, you would be eligible to apply for a re-entry permit if you are planning to travel outside the U.S. for an extended period of time but intend to return and maintain your permanent residence in the United States. The eligibility requirements for obtaining a re-entry permit include:

1. You must be physically present in the U.S. when you file the re-entry permit application.
2. You must be able to demonstrate that you have been maintaining your status as a permanent resident, or if you are a U.S. citizen, that you have strong ties to the U.S. and intend to return after your period of travel.
3. You must provide a valid reason for needing the re-entry permit, such as employment, family reasons, or other important circumstances.
4. You should not have an abandonment of lawful permanent resident status, which could impact your eligibility for a re-entry permit.

It is essential to carefully review the specific eligibility requirements and gather all necessary documentation when applying for a re-entry permit to ensure a successful application process.

5. How do I apply for a re-entry permit from South Korea?

To apply for a re-entry permit as a U.S. citizen from South Korea, you would need to follow these steps:

1. Complete Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. This form is available on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.

2. Gather supporting documents, such as your valid passport, a copy of your green card (if applicable), and any other relevant documentation.

3. Pay the filing fee for the re-entry permit application. The current fee can be found on the USCIS website.

4. Submit your application package to the appropriate USCIS lockbox facility. The address for submitting the application can also be found on the USCIS website.

5. Wait for USCIS to process your application. Once your re-entry permit is approved, you will receive further instructions on how to obtain the physical permit.

It’s important to note that the processing time for re-entry permit applications can vary, so it’s recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates. Additionally, it’s advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or seek guidance from USCIS if you have any specific questions about the re-entry permit application process from South Korea.

6. How long does it take to process a re-entry permit application for U.S. citizens in South Korea?

The processing time for a re-entry permit application for U.S. citizens in South Korea typically varies based on several factors. However, the general timeline for processing a re-entry permit application can range from 4 to 8 weeks. It is important to note that this timeframe can fluctuate based on the current workload of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office handling the application, the completeness of the application, any additional documentation required, and any potential delays in the review process. It is advisable to submit the re-entry permit application well in advance of any planned travel to ensure sufficient time for processing.

7. Can I travel outside of South Korea while my re-entry permit application is pending?

As a U.S. citizen, if you have applied for a re-entry permit and are waiting for it to be approved, you can still travel outside of South Korea. This is because a re-entry permit is not required for U.S. citizens to leave and re-enter the United States. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

1. It is recommended that you have a valid U.S. passport with you when traveling outside of South Korea.
2. Make sure to carry proof of your re-entry permit application, such as a copy of your application receipt or approval notice, in case you encounter any questions or issues during your travels.
3. Keep in mind that if you leave the United States while your re-entry permit application is pending, this may impact the processing time or approval of your application. It is advised to consult with an immigration attorney or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for specific guidance based on your individual situation.

Overall, while it is possible to travel outside of South Korea while your re-entry permit application is pending as a U.S. citizen, it is important to take proper precautions and consider the potential implications on your application process.

8. Can I renew my re-entry permit from South Korea?

Yes, as a U.S. Citizen, you can renew your re-entry permit from South Korea. Here’s how you can accomplish this:

1. Prepare the necessary documents: You will need to complete Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, and gather any supporting documentation required for the renewal process.

2. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in South Korea: Reach out to the U.S. diplomatic mission in South Korea to inquire about the specific procedures and requirements for renewing your re-entry permit.

3. Schedule an appointment: Follow the instructions provided by the U.S. embassy or consulate to schedule an appointment for submitting your renewal application and supporting documents.

4. Attend the appointment: On the scheduled date, attend your appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate to submit your renewal application and any necessary biometric data.

5. Wait for processing: After submitting your renewal application, you will need to wait for processing, which can take several weeks to months.

6. Collect your renewed re-entry permit: Once your renewal application is approved, you can collect your renewed re-entry permit from the U.S. embassy or consulate in South Korea.

Make sure to start the renewal process well in advance of your current re-entry permit’s expiration date to avoid any travel disruptions.

9. What are the fees associated with applying for a re-entry permit as a U.S. citizen in South Korea?

The fees associated with applying for a re-entry permit as a U.S. citizen in South Korea are as follows:

1. Form I-131 Application Fee: The current filing fee for Form I-131, Application for Travel Document (which includes the re-entry permit), is $575 as of 2021.

2. Biometrics Services Fee: In addition to the application fee, applicants aged 14 to 79 are generally required to pay an $85 biometric services fee when applying for a re-entry permit.

It is important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it is recommended to check the most up-to-date fee information on the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website before submitting your application.

10. Can I return to the U.S. on an expired re-entry permit?

No, you cannot return to the U.S. on an expired re-entry permit. A re-entry permit is a travel document issued to lawful permanent residents (green card holders) or conditional permanent residents to allow them to re-enter the United States after an extended period of time spent abroad without abandoning their status. The re-entry permit has an expiration date, typically valid for two years. If your re-entry permit has expired, you will not be allowed to re-enter the U.S. with it. You will need to apply for a new re-entry permit before traveling back to the United States. It’s important to plan ahead and ensure that your re-entry permit is valid for your return trip to avoid any issues at the port of entry.

11. What are the consequences of not having a valid re-entry permit as a U.S. citizen in South Korea?

1. As a U.S. citizen in South Korea, not having a valid re-entry permit can have severe consequences.
2. Without a re-entry permit, you may encounter difficulties when attempting to re-enter the United States after your stay in South Korea.
3. Immigration authorities may question your intent to return to the U.S. without a valid re-entry permit.
4. You may be deemed to have abandoned your permanent resident status in the U.S. by not having a re-entry permit, which could lead to complications in the future.
5. It is essential to ensure that your re-entry permit is valid and up-to-date to avoid any issues with re-entering the U.S. as a U.S. citizen in South Korea.

12. Can I apply for a re-entry permit from the U.S. embassy or consulate in South Korea?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen residing in South Korea, you can apply for a re-entry permit at the U.S. embassy or consulate in South Korea. Here’s how you can go about it:

1. Make an appointment: Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in South Korea to schedule an appointment for your re-entry permit application.
2. Gather necessary documents: Prepare all the required documentation for your re-entry permit application, including Form I-131, proof of your U.S. citizenship, evidence of your permanent residence in the U.S., and any other supporting documents as needed.
3. Attend your appointment: On the scheduled date, go to the embassy or consulate for your appointment. Submit your application and provide any biometric information if required.
4. Pay the fee: There is a fee associated with applying for a re-entry permit, so be prepared to pay this fee at the embassy or consulate.
5. Await processing: After submitting your application, the embassy or consulate will process your re-entry permit. Once approved, you will receive your re-entry permit, which allows you to re-enter the U.S. after an extended stay abroad.

Overall, applying for a re-entry permit from the U.S. embassy or consulate in South Korea is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to follow all the necessary steps and provide accurate information to ensure a successful application.

13. Can I apply for a re-entry permit online while living in South Korea?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen residing in South Korea, you can apply for a re-entry permit online through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. The online application process for a re-entry permit involves creating an account on the USCIS website, completing the required form, uploading necessary documents, and paying the application fee online. It is a convenient and efficient way to apply for a re-entry permit without needing to visit a USCIS office in person. However, please note that you may still need to attend a biometrics appointment at a USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) for fingerprinting purposes. Make sure to carefully follow the instructions provided on the USCIS website to ensure a smooth application process.

14. Is a re-entry permit different from a visa for U.S. citizens living in South Korea?

Yes, a re-entry permit is different from a visa for U.S. citizens living in South Korea. Here are some key distinctions between the two for U.S. citizens specifically:

1. Purpose: A re-entry permit is issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who wish to travel abroad for an extended period (up to 2 years) without risking abandonment of their status. On the other hand, a visa is issued by the country being visited to allow entry for a specific purpose and duration, such as tourism, work, or study.

2. Eligibility: U.S. citizens do not require visas to enter South Korea for short visits (typically up to 90 days for tourism or business), as they are eligible for visa-free entry under the Visa Waiver Program. However, if a U.S. citizen wishes to stay in South Korea for a longer period, such as for work or study purposes, they may need to apply for an appropriate visa from the South Korean embassy or consulate.

3. Validity: A re-entry permit allows a green card holder to re-enter the United States after travelling abroad for the specified period without the risk of abandonment of their permanent resident status. In contrast, a visa for South Korea would allow a U.S. citizen to enter and stay in South Korea for the duration and purpose specified on the visa.

Overall, while a re-entry permit is a document issued by the U.S. government to lawful permanent residents allowing them to travel abroad without abandoning their status, a visa for South Korea is a document issued by the South Korean government allowing entry and stay in the country for a specific purpose and timeframe.

15. Can I apply for a re-entry permit if I have been living in South Korea for an extended period of time?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen living abroad for an extended period of time, such as in South Korea, you can apply for a re-entry permit to ensure that you maintain your status as a lawful permanent resident of the United States. Here’s how you can go about applying for a re-entry permit while living in South Korea:

1. Eligibility: To be eligible for a re-entry permit, you must be a lawful permanent resident of the United States who intends to depart the U.S. for an extended period of time but wishes to preserve your status as a permanent resident.

2. Application Process: You can file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to apply for a re-entry permit. You can submit the application while residing in South Korea by following the instructions provided by USCIS on their website.

3. Biometrics Appointment: If required, you may need to attend a biometrics appointment at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in South Korea to provide your fingerprints, photograph, and signature as part of the application process.

4. Duration of Re-entry Permit: A re-entry permit typically allows you to remain outside the U.S. for up to 2 years without abandoning your permanent resident status. If you need to stay outside the U.S. for a longer period, you may need to apply for a Returning Resident Visa (SB-1) instead.

5. It is important to note that a re-entry permit does not guarantee entry into the United States upon your return, as U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers will still determine your admissibility at the port of entry based on various factors.

6. Make sure to plan ahead and apply for the re-entry permit well in advance of your departure to avoid any complications with your status as a permanent resident while living in South Korea.

16. Are there any restrictions on how long I can stay outside of the U.S. with a re-entry permit?

Yes, there are restrictions on how long you can stay outside of the U.S. with a re-entry permit. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Re-entry permits generally allow a U.S. lawful permanent resident (LPR) or conditional resident (CR) to travel outside of the U.S. for up to 2 years without abandoning their LPR status.

2. If you plan to stay outside of the U.S. for more than 1 year, it is advisable to obtain a re-entry permit before your departure to avoid any potential issues with regard to maintaining your LPR status.

3. While a re-entry permit can grant you the ability to stay outside of the U.S. for an extended period, it is important to note that it does not extend your initial period of admission as an LPR. If you stay outside of the U.S. beyond the validity period of your re-entry permit, you may be subject to additional questioning and scrutiny upon your return.

4. It is recommended to plan your travel carefully and ensure that your time spent outside of the U.S. does not jeopardize your LPR status. If you foresee that you will need to stay outside of the U.S. for an extended period, consult with an immigration attorney to discuss your options and ensure compliance with immigration regulations.

17. Can I work in South Korea while holding a re-entry permit as a U.S. citizen?

As a U.S. citizen holding a Re-entry Permit, you are allowed to work in South Korea, but there are certain limitations and conditions to be aware of:

1. Employment Visa: In order to work in South Korea, you will generally need to obtain the appropriate work visa. A Re-entry Permit does not grant you the right to work in another country on its own.

2. Work Permit: Once you have secured employment in South Korea, your employer will need to sponsor your work visa and assist you in obtaining a work permit from the South Korean government.

3. Residency Registration: You will also need to register your residency in South Korea and comply with all local laws and requirements related to working in the country.

4. Taxation: Working in South Korea may have tax implications, so it is important to understand and comply with the tax laws of both the U.S. and South Korea.

5. Consult with an Immigration Attorney: It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or the nearest South Korean embassy or consulate to ensure that you have the necessary permits and documentation to work legally in South Korea while holding a Re-entry Permit as a U.S. citizen.

18. Do I need a re-entry permit if I am only planning to travel outside of the U.S. for a short period of time?

If you are a U.S. citizen and you plan to travel outside of the United States for a short period of time, typically less than one year, you generally do not need a re-entry permit. A re-entry permit is typically sought by lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to maintain their status while traveling abroad for an extended period. As a U.S. citizen, you have the right to enter and exit the country freely, without the need for a re-entry permit. However, it is always recommended to carry proper identification documents such as a valid U.S. passport to re-enter the United States after your trip. Additionally, if you plan to stay abroad for an extended period, it is advisable to check with the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country you are visiting to ensure you have all necessary documentation for re-entry.

19. Can I surrender my re-entry permit if I no longer need it while living in South Korea?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen with a valid re-entry permit, you have the option to voluntarily surrender your re-entry permit if you no longer require it, even if you are currently residing in South Korea. To surrender your re-entry permit, you would typically need to complete and submit Form I-407, also known as the Record of Abandonment of Lawful Permanent Resident Status. This form officially informs the U.S. government that you are voluntarily relinquishing your status as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) or, in this case, surrendering your re-entry permit as a U.S. citizen. It is recommended to consult with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in South Korea for specific instructions and guidance on the process of surrendering your re-entry permit while residing abroad.

20. What should I do if my re-entry permit is lost or stolen while I am in South Korea?

If your re-entry permit is lost or stolen while you are in South Korea, you should take immediate steps to file a report with the local authorities, such as the South Korean police. This report is essential not only for your personal records but also to support any future applications or inquiries regarding the lost document. Additionally, you must contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in South Korea to alert them about the situation. They can guide you on the necessary steps to take to replace your lost or stolen re-entry permit. You may need to apply for a new re-entry permit or receive a boarding foil to return to the United States without the permit. Be prepared to provide identifying information and documentation to expedite the process.

Further steps you can consider if your re-entry permit is lost or stolen in South Korea include:

1. Requesting a replacement re-entry permit promptly through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
2. Keeping a written record of the incident, including the date, time, and location of when the permit was lost or stolen.
3. Being prepared to show alternative forms of identification, such as a valid passport, to verify your status as a U.S. citizen.
4. Following any additional instructions provided by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate to navigate the situation effectively and ensure a smooth return to the United States.