Property Crime
Property Crime & Visa Status in Korea (Theft, Fraud, Embezzlement)
Convictions for theft, fraud, and embezzlement can subject foreign nationals to an immigration offense review in Korea. Organized or repeat property crime significantly increases the risk of forced departure (deportation).
How Property Crime Convictions Affect Immigration Status
Criminal Act Articles 329–365 govern theft, fraud, extortion, and embezzlement. A conviction may trigger an immigration offense review that affects residency status.
- Simple theft (minor amount): First offense — departure recommendation or continued stay possible
- Fraud / embezzlement: Larger amounts increase forced departure risk
- Organized / repeat property crime: Forced departure and long re-entry ban
- Investment visa (D-8) holders: Financial crime raises high risk of visa cancellation
The Offense Review Process
After a property crime conviction, an immigration offense review may be initiated.
- Criminal disposition finalized (fine, suspended sentence, imprisonment)
- Immigration Office notified for offense review
- Officer interview (scale of damage, victim settlement, recidivism risk)
- Decision: ① Continue stay ② Departure recommendation ③ Forced departure
How Sunshine Can Help
Our office provides:
- Representation and written opinion at the immigration offense review
- Preparation of victim settlement and mitigating documents
- Negotiation for reduced penalty in first-offense or small-amount cases
- Support for defending against visa cancellation for investment visa holders
선샤인행정사사무소
서울 중구 퇴계로 324, 3층 · +82-2-363-2251
Frequently Asked Questions
I stole goods worth a small amount — will I be deported?
For a minor first offense, the outcome is more likely a departure recommendation than forced departure. However, all property crimes are subject to an immigration review.
Does victim forgiveness help?
Yes. A victim settlement is an important mitigating factor both in criminal proceedings and in the immigration offense review.
Does a fraud conviction affect family members' visas?
A fraud conviction primarily affects the person convicted. However, a spouse's criminal history may be considered in family visa applications.
This page provides general legal information only and does not constitute legal advice.