Do you qualify?
It depends on your nationality, because Korea pays foreigners back only if their country treats Koreans the same way or has a social security agreement with Korea. The National Pension Service publishes the current list of countries on its English website — check it before you plan around the money. Holders of E-8, E-9 and H-2 visas can claim regardless of nationality.
Some agreements work differently: instead of a refund, your Korean contributions may count toward your pension at home. The NPS (call 1355) can tell you which applies.
How to claim
- Before you leave: apply at any NPS branch from one month before departure, with your flight ticket as proof.
- At the airport: the NPS center in Incheon Airport Terminal 1 (1st floor) handles claims on the day you fly.
- From abroad: send the claim by post with notarised or apostilled copies, or use an agent.
What to bring
- Claim form (at the office)
- Passport and residence card
- Proof of a bank account for the payment
- Your flight ticket or other proof of departure
The refund is paid once your departure is confirmed. Get your pension certificate first if you want to check the amount.
Official websites
- National Pension Service (국민연금공단) www.nps.or.kr
We link only to official sites and re-check these guides, but fees, rules and screens change and can differ between offices. Before you go, confirm on the official site or call the Immigration Contact Center at 1345 (multilingual).