South Korean Passport Renewal in the U.S.: Complete Guide

If you are a South Korean citizen living or working in the United States, it is more convenient to renew your passport at a U.S. embassy or consulate than to travel back to South Korea. Read this guide to find out how to renew a South Korean passport in America, including where to apply, what documents to prepare, and where to get a compliant passport photo.

Table of contents

• South Korean Passport Renewal Options in the U.S.
• Korean Consulates in the U.S.
• Documents Required for South Korean Passport Renewal
• South Korean Passport Photo Requirements
• Get a South Korean Passport Photo Online
• Where to Print a 35×45 Photo in the USA?
• South Korean Passport Renewal Process Step-by-Step
• South Korean Passport Renewal Fees in the USA
• South Korean Passport Waiting Time in the USA
• Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Korean Passport in the USA: What to Do
• FAQ

South Korean Passport Renewal Options in the U.S.

For a South Korean passport renewal overseas, the consulate requires you to appear in person rather than sending your application by mail. This is because verifying your identity is crucial in the Korean passport system. Here, you'll find out about the available renewal methods and the requirements that apply to applicants in the U.S.

Why in-person application is required

Applying in person is mandatory because of the e-passport (biometric passport) process. The consulate needs to collect your fingerprints and confirm your identity directly to issue this secure document. Proxy applications are only allowed under specific conditions.

No mail-in renewal option

South Korea does not permit mail-in renewals for citizens residing in the U.S. You must go to the consulate yourself to submit your application. However, while the application requires your presence, you may receive your new passport via mail. The consulate will detail delivery options and any applicable fees when you apply.

Who must appear at the consulate

According to Korean law, all adults aged 18 or older must visit the consulate in person. Exceptions exist for those unable to attend due to statutory reasons. In such cases, someone qualified, like a relative or guardian, can apply for you. Exceptions include:

• Individuals under 18.
• Those with serious medical conditions or disabilities, supported by a doctor's note.
• Individuals detained under national protocol or legal proceedings.

Korean Consulates in the U.S.

The Embassy in Washington, D.C., along with 11 consulates general, oversees South Korean passport services in the U.S. Below, we explain how to determine which office serves your area.

You must apply at the consular office specific to your state of residence. For example, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Washington, D.C., covers Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. Other consulates cover the following jurisdictions:

• The San Francisco consulate covers Colorado, Northern California, Utah, and Wyoming.
• The Los Angeles consulate serves Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, and Southern California.
• The Seattle consulate is responsible for Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana.
• The New York consulate covers New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.

To find the consulate that covers your area, visit the contact information page for South Korean embassies and consulates in the U.S. on the official travel.state.gov website.

Documents Required for South Korean Passport Renewal

Applicants must provide documents that confirm their identity, citizenship status, and eligibility for passport issuance. Here you'll learn what you need to prepare before attending your Korean passport renewal appointment in the USA.

Here's what you need:

• Completed passport application form. You can get this form at the consulate or from the Consular Civil Service 24 website.
• Current or expiring South Korean passport.
• Proof of U.S. residence status. This could include a Green Card, a valid U.S. visa, or an I-20 form.
• You will also need two identical, recent, passport-sized photos that meet strict official specifications.

South Korean Passport Photo Requirements

Photos for South Korean passports must adhere to detailed biometric and technical standards. Below, we explain the photo requirements your image must satisfy for a passport renewal.

• The photo must measure 35 mm in width and 45 mm in height.
• The distance from the chin to the top of the head must be between 32 mm and 36 mm.
• A minimum resolution of 300 DPI is recommended.
• Face the camera directly, showing your face and shoulders without any tilt or turn.
• Maintain a neutral expression with a closed mouth; avoid smiling or frowning.
• Keep both eyes open, looking straight at the camera; no blinking or red-eye allowed.
• Your forehead to chin must be fully visible. Hair must not cover eyebrows, eyes, or ears.
• Do not wear hats, headphones, or sunglasses. Religious headwear is permitted only if it does not obscure the face.
• The photo must be taken within six months of your application date.

An example of a compliant South Korean passport photo:

Get a South Korean Passport Photo Online

Learn how to capture a photo for your South Korean passport online that meets all official requirements.

Thanks to modern online photo tools, you don't need to visit a photo studio to obtain a high-quality document photo. With Visafoto, a trusted photo editing service, you can secure a compliant passport photo in just two easy steps:

1. Upload a photo taken in natural light to Visafoto.
2. Select "South Korea" and "passport" as your country and document type.

That's all! Visafoto takes it from there, adjusting your image to fit official specifications for background, size, and head positioning. You'll receive a digital file perfect for online submission and a printable version.

Visafoto also enhances photo quality as needed, improving lighting for a studio-like effect, boosting image clarity and resolution, and correcting framing if the original is cropped too tightly. No need to take a new picture – simply photograph an existing passport photo with your phone, and Visafoto will enhance the scan. If your uploaded photo meets the quality standards, Visafoto will not apply unnecessary changes.

Original photo example:

Edited result:

Visafoto boasts a 99.7% acceptance rate, with over 1,000,000 approved images. If your photo is not accepted, you get a full refund. Our tech support is available 24/7 for any assistance you need.

Where to Print a 35×45 Photo in the USA?

Visafoto simplifies printing your passport photos by providing a file with four photos on one sheet. Below we explain where and how you can easily print them.

At home:

1. Use 10×15 cm (4×6 inch) photo paper.
2. Open the photo file on your computer.
3. Right-click the file and select "Print."

No need to adjust the image size yourself; Visafoto ensures it prints correctly.

Using a printing service:

• If you don't have a printer, visit a nearby photo printing shop and request a print on 10×15 cm (4×6 inch) photo paper.
• Alternatively, upload the file to a photo service website, select the 4×6-inch print size, and order your prints.

In the USA, popular options include Walgreens and CVS Pharmacy, both of which can mail prints directly to your home.

Use this guide to print passport-sized photos for under 50 cents.

South Korean Passport Renewal Process Step-by-Step

Renewing a passport in the United States follows a structured process that includes preparing documents, booking a visit, and submitting the application in person. Here you'll find a step-by-step process of a South Korean passport renewal at an embassy or consulate in the U.S.

Follow the steps below:

1. Locate your consulate: Determine which Korean mission covers your region. You must apply at the consulate with jurisdiction over your residence, managed by the Embassy in D.C. and 11 other consulates.
2. Schedule an appointment: Use your consulate's official website to book your mandatory in-person visit.
3. Prepare your documents: Gather all necessary documents, as previously detailed.
4. Visit the consulate: Bring original documents and photocopies. Submit your application, provide fingerprints for the e-passport, and pay the applicable fees.
5. Receive your passport: After processing, choose to either pick up your new passport in person or have it mailed to you.

Korean passport renewal for Green Card holders works the same way as for other Korean nationals in the U.S.: you must book the consulate, appear in person, and bring the required documents. The consulate may also ask for evidence of your U.S. residence when verifying your status and contact information. However, the key requirement is that you are applying as a Korean citizen.

South Korean Passport Renewal Fees in the USA

Passport renewal fees depend on factors such as passport type, validity period, and the applicant's age. Payments are typically made directly to the consulate according to its accepted payment methods. Below, you'll find a quick breakdown of the estimated fees.

• Adult (18+), 10-year validity (58 pages): KRW 52,000 (about USD 34)
• Child (under 18), 5-year validity (26 pages): KRW 49,000 (about USD 32)
• Minors (ages 8–17), 5-year validity: KRW 42,000–45,000 (approx. USD 27–29)
• Children (under 8), 5-year validity: KRW 30,000–33,000 (approx. USD 20–22)

South Korean Passport Waiting Time in the USA

Processing times vary depending on application volume, consular workload, and passport production schedules. Read on to learn about typical processing timelines.

The processing time for a South Korean passport renewal in the U.S. typically ranges from 2 to 3 weeks after you submit your application in person at the consulate. Factors like application volume, consular workload, and production schedules can affect this timeline. For precise information, ask for an estimated completion date during your appointment.

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Korean Passport in the USA: What to Do

A missing or damaged passport requires immediate action to protect your identity and restore your ability to travel. Here you'll learn what you need to do if your passport has been lost, stolen, or damaged while in the United States.

Follow these straightforward steps to replace your passport:

1. If your passport was stolen, report it immediately to your local police department. Obtain a copy of the report or note the report number; you'll need this evidence for your consular appointment.
2. Notify your Korean consulate of the loss as soon as possible. Complete a "Loss Report" (Passport Loss Declaration) form, which is usually part of the new passport application process.
3. Gather necessary documents:
   • Completed passport application form.
   • Loss Declaration form.
   • Police report (if the passport was stolen).
   • Proof of U.S. residence, such as a Green Card, valid U.S. visa, I-20 form, or state ID.
   • Two identical, recent color photos.
4. Book your visit with the Korean consulate that serves your area and attend with all required documents.

Important: If you find your old passport after reporting it as lost, it remains invalid. You must continue with the process for obtaining a new passport, as reported lost or stolen passports are not reactivated for travel.

FAQ

Can I renew my South Korean passport by mail from the U.S.?

No, you must renew in person. South Korean citizens in the U.S. must apply in person because biometric passports require fingerprint collection, which cannot be done by mail.

What if I haven't registered as an Overseas Citizen/National yet?

You need to register first. If you're a South Korean national staying in the U.S. for over 90 days, you must register with your local consulate. Complete this registration online before applying for a passport renewal. Visit your consulate's website for the registration link.

Can I photocopy my documents at the consulate?

It depends on the consulate. Some consulates offer photocopying services, while others do not. Bring all required documents and copies with you. If needed, ask staff for assistance regarding photocopying upon arrival.

Can I request my passport be mailed back to me?

Yes, usually you can. Most consulates offer the option of receiving your new passport by mail. The reservation guidance includes a "consent to receive passport(s) by mail" form.

Do dual citizens need to use the same romanized Korean name for renewal?

Yes, you must use the same romanized name as on your previous passport. Korean law allows name changes only in specific exceptions, such as incorrect romanization or before first use.

Can someone else pick up my passport for me?

Yes, you can authorize someone to collect your passport. Provide them with a signed authorization letter and ensure they have a valid government-issued photo ID when picking up the passport.