Kazakh migrants in South Korea allowed to leave the country without fines

Tengrinews.kz – South Korea has eased exit rules for Kazakh citizens who have been working in the country illegally.

According to the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Kazakhstan, an agreement was reached with South Korea’s Ministry of Justice on extending the voluntary departure program.

“In the course of negotiations on reducing illegal migration and protecting the rights of our citizens, we agreed to expand the timeframe of the voluntary departure program, which allows Kazakh nationals who worked illegally in Korea to voluntarily leave the country without fines and without a ban on re-entry. Our citizens may use this opportunity from December 2025 through February 2026,” the ministry said.

Officials explained that the program allows Kazakh citizens to leave Korea “without legal consequences”.

“The program does not apply to individuals who have committed criminal offences, are subject to forced deportation, or to foreigners who became undocumented after 1 December 2025,” the ministry added.

To make use of voluntary departure, individuals will need a passport, an application and an airline ticket. Advance notice must be submitted to South Korean immigration offices 15 to 3 days before departure.

The ministry also reminded citizens that work abroad must always be legal.

“We strongly recommend that Kazakh citizens seek employment abroad exclusively through lawful channels to avoid the risks of illegal migration, fines, deportation and possible labour exploitation. It is necessary to use only official and verified employment channels, including licensed private recruitment agencies, state programs and official offers from employers,” the statement said.