False / Forged Documents
False & Forged Documents — Visa Cancellation & Entry Ban
Submitting forged or falsified documents — whether diplomas, employment letters, or passports — for visa applications or work permits in Korea leads to criminal prosecution, visa cancellation, and potential entry ban.
Types of Document Fraud and Consequences
Criminal Act Article 225 (forgery of official documents) and the Immigration Control Act both apply. Submitting forged documents results in criminal prosecution and an immigration offense review that may lead to visa cancellation or entry ban.
- Forged academic certificates / employment letters: Visa cancellation + criminal prosecution
- Forged or altered passports: Serious crime — forced departure and long-term entry ban
- False invitation letters / employment contracts: Visa denial and reapplication restrictions
- Responsibility for submission regardless of knowledge of forgery
The Disposition Process
Once forged documents are discovered, the following process unfolds.
- Forged documents discovered (during screening or investigation)
- Criminal investigation initiated (police/prosecutor)
- Immigration offense review notified; visa cancellation and entry ban considered
- Disposition decided and executed
How Vision Can Help
Our office provides:
- Preparation of evidence demonstrating lack of knowledge of forgery
- Representation and written opinion at the immigration offense review
- Support for appealing a visa cancellation
- Strategy for applying to lift an entry ban
선샤인행정사사무소
서울 중구 퇴계로 324, 3층 · +82-2-363-2251
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I didn't know the documents were fake?
The person who submits the documents bears responsibility, even without knowledge of the forgery. However, demonstrating lack of intent can help mitigate the disposition.
Is it my responsibility if an agent submitted fake documents?
In principle, the applicant is responsible. Evidence of the agent's deception may provide some relief, but all documents should be carefully reviewed beforehand.
What is the entry ban period for false documents?
It depends on the type and severity of the forgery. Passport forgery in particular can result in a long-term or permanent entry ban.
This page provides general legal information only and does not constitute legal advice.