Departing Korea

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This webpage is currently under construction and contains draft content that is subject to ongoing review and revision. Information presented herein is being developed to align with applicable policies and guidelines of the Department of Defense (DoD), United States Forces Korea (USFK), and other United States government entities.

If you have accessed this webpage unintentionally, please be advised that the information provided is not final and should not be relied upon as authoritative or official. The presence of any content on this page does not constitute endorsement by the DoD, USFK, or any United States government entity, including but not limited to U.S. federal, state, or military organizations.

Content will continue to be updated as coordination with appropriate components progresses.

Welcome & Key Reminders

This guide is designed to assist A-3 visa holders under Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) status with the out-processing procedures when departing the Republic of Korea (ROK). Successfully navigating this process requires diligent planning and proactive engagement with various USFK and ROK entities.

Critical: Alien Registration Card (ARC)

While A-3 visa holders are generally exempt from mandatory ARC acquisition, if you obtained one for convenience, its return to ROK immigration authorities upon final departure is compulsory. Failure to do so can result in penalties.

The cessation of A-3/SOFA status is linked to the completion of your official duties and physical departure. This is primarily managed through USFK out-processing and standard ROK immigration controls, not a separate visa cancellation with ROK Immigration for routine PCS/EOT departures.

Official PCS orders are the catalyst for the entire out-processing system. Installation checklists are indispensable, but require your active management. Early consultation with relevant offices (MPD/FSS, Housing, TMO, Finance, Legal) is paramount.

Out-Processing Timeline

This generalized timeline offers a framework for planning. Specific requirements can vary by installation and individual circumstances. Always consult official installation out-processing guides and checklists. Click on a timeframe to see key actions.

Key Contacts & Offices

Find contact information for essential offices. You can filter by installation. Remember the DSN calling notes below if applicable.

DSN Note: DSN numbers are for use within the military phone system. For commercial calls from outside Korea, dial +82, then the DSN prefix (e.g., 503 for Humphreys/Osan area DSNs starting with 7XX), then the DSN number. From within Korea, dial 0, then DSN prefix, then DSN number.

Important Information & FAQs

Key considerations and frequently asked questions regarding your departure. Click on a topic to learn more.