Nationality Recovery
Process for regaining Korean citizenship
Overview
Nationality recovery is a system that allows individuals who previously held Korean nationality but lost it upon acquiring foreign citizenship to reacquire Korean nationality. For those aged 65 or older, a special provision allows dual nationality by simply pledging non-exercise of foreign nationality.
Target Applicants
- Former Korean nationals who now hold foreign citizenship
- Individuals who have completed nationality loss notification
- Those aged 65+ seeking dual nationality
- Korean-born adoptees raised overseas
Eligibility
- 1Proof of previously holding Korean nationality
- 2Good conduct
- 3Financial self-sufficiency
- 4Korean language proficiency and basic civic knowledge
- 5Nationality loss notification completed
Required Documents
- Nationality recovery application form
- Passport (original and copy)
- Family relationship certificate (detailed)
- Basic certificate (detailed)
- Nationality loss proof documents
- Criminal background check (apostille)
- Financial proof documents
- 1 photo
Process
Processing Time: Approximately 6 months to 1 year
1
Document Preparation
Prepare required documents (apostille needed for overseas documents)
2
Visit Authority
Submit at the Immigration & Foreign Affairs Office
3
MOJ Review
Document and requirements review (6 months to 1 year)
4
Recovery Approval
Published in the Official Gazette
5
Foreign Nationality Processing
Age 65+: pledge of non-exercise / Under 65: renounce foreign nationality
Important Notes
- •Those aged 65+ can maintain dual nationality through a pledge of non-exercise of foreign nationality.
- •After nationality recovery, resident registration and Korean passport issuance become available.
- •Males who lost nationality to evade military service may face restrictions.