U.S. Embassy & Consulate
in the Republic of Korea

Contacting Home

U.S. citizens in need of emergency financial assistance while abroad should first attempt to contact their family, friends, banking institution, or employer. Our American Citizen Services unit can assist in this effort, if necessary.

Wiring Money Directly

Use a commercial money transfer service, such as Western Union or MoneyGram., to wire money overseas. Money transfer cost comparison tools online can help you identify the best option. The person receiving the money will need to present proof of identity such as a passport. Link text: Be wary of International Financial Scams.

Sending Money through the U.S. Department of State

When the commercial options listed above are not available or feasible, family or friends may send funds via the U.S. Department of State for delivery to a destitute U.S. citizen abroad at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The U.S. Department of State assesses a $30 fee to establish an account and transfer funds.

Repatriation Loans

Destitute U.S. citizens may be eligible for a loan from the U.S. government to travel to the United States. Repatriation loans must eventually be paid back to the U.S. government. Your U.S. passports will be limited at the time the loan is issued and in most cases you will not be issued a new passport until the loan is paid in full. Contact us for more information.

Renounce U.S. Citizenship

Due to the global pandemic, the U.S. Embassy conducts the first loss of nationality interview by phone and has very limited availability to accommodate second interviews. Priority is given to individuals who reside in the Republic of Korea. If you wish to schedule an appointment, please contact SeoulINFOACS@state.gov – do not schedule using the online appointment system.

Dual Nationality

While recognizing the existence of dual nationality, the U.S. government does not encourage it as a matter of policy because of the problems it may cause. Dual nationality may hamper efforts by the U.S. government to provide consular protection to individuals overseas, especially when they are in the country of their second nationality. Claims of other countries upon dual national U.S. citizens may place them in situations in which their obligations to one country conflict with the laws of the other. Public inquiries about the citizenship laws of other countries should be directed to the embassy or consulate of that country in the United States. U.S. law and regulations require that U.S. citizens enter and exit the United States on a U.S. passport, with certain limited exceptions.

Selective Service

If you are a U.S. dual citizen or U.S. citizen living outside of the United States, you can register with the Selective Service System.

Social Security

If you reside in Korea and have questions regarding services provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA), you must contact the SSA Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) located in Manila, Philippines.

Veterans Affairs

U.S. service members, veterans, and their beneficiaries can apply for benefits on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) website. The Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) may also be able to help veterans and beneficiaries with questions about benefits and services. The Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) may also be able to help veterans and beneficiaries with questions about benefits and services.

Voting

Now all U.S. citizens can receive their blank ballots electronically. Depending on the state in which you are eligible to vote, you may get your ballot by email, fax, or internet download. To start, go to www.FVAP.gov to complete a new Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), print and sign the form then return it to your local election office in the United States. We recommend overseas U.S. citizens get in the habit of completing FPCAs each January. You should include your email address on the form so it’s easier for your election officials to reach you if there is a problem. If your state delivers ballots electronically by fax only, be sure to include your fax number. If you request electronic delivery and include your email address or fax number, you’ll receive your blank ballot 45 days before general and mid-term elections and generally 30 days before special, primary, and run-off elections for federal offices.