The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of Kazakhstan reminds that Kazakh citizens working illegally in the Republic of Korea may voluntarily leave the country without fines or a ban on re-entry until the end of February 2026.
As previously reported, agreements to extend the timeframe of the voluntary departure program (hereinafter – the Program) were reached between the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Korea during negotiations in 2025. The talks focused on reducing illegal migration and protecting the rights of Kazakh citizens.
These measures are aimed at mitigating legal consequences and supporting those who are willing to regularize their status. The Program does not apply to individuals who have committed criminal offenses, are subject to forced deportation, or foreigners who entered illegal status after December 1, 2025.
To participate in the Program, applicants must have a passport, submit a voluntary departure application, and present an airline ticket. Advance notification must be submitted through immigration offices of the Republic of Korea 15 to 3 days prior to the departure date.
The Ministry strongly recommends that Kazakh citizens seek employment abroad only through legal channels in order to avoid the risks of illegal migration, deportation, fines, restrictions of rights, and potential labor exploitation.
Citizens are urged to use only official and verified employment channels, including licensed private employment agencies, government programs, and official job offers from employers.
The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population will continue its systematic work to protect the rights of Kazakh citizens working abroad.