Foreigner Registration in Korea: Getting Your ARC

The Alien Registration Card (외국인 등록증, ARC) is the official ID card for foreigners living in Korea. It is issued by the Korea Immigration Service (출입국·외국인청).

You must apply for an ARC if: • You hold a visa that allows a stay of 90 days or more (e.g., D-2 student, E-2 English teacher, F-series residence visas, H-1 working holiday) • You are staying longer than 90 days regardless of your visa category

You do NOT need an ARC if you are a short-term tourist (C-3 visa, under 90 days).

Your ARC number functions like a national ID number in Korea — you will need it to open a bank account, sign a lease, register a phone plan, and access government services.

Bring the following to your application appointment:

• Passport (original + one copy) • Visa confirmation (for some visa types) • Completed application form (available at the immigration office or at www.hikorea.go.kr) • One passport-size photo (3.5cm × 4.5cm, white background, taken within the last 6 months) • Application fee: 30,000 KRW (bank transfer or payment at the counter) • Supporting documents depending on visa type: - D-2 (Student): Certificate of enrollment from your university - E-2 (English Teacher): Employment contract, criminal background check, health certificate - F-2/F-4/F-6: Proof of relationship or eligibility - H-1 (Working Holiday): Proof of sufficient funds (usually 3,000,000 KRW)

Check the official HiKorea website (www.hikorea.go.kr) for the exact list for your visa type, as requirements change.

1. Book an appointment online at www.hikorea.go.kr or call 1345. Walk-ins are accepted but waits can be 2–4 hours. Online appointments are strongly recommended.

2. Go to the immigration office (출입국·외국인청) that covers your area of residence. Seoul has offices in Mapo, Banpo, and Seongdong.

3. Submit your documents at the counter. The officer will check everything and give you a receipt.

4. Wait for processing — typically 2–3 weeks. You will receive an SMS when it is ready.

5. Return to the immigration office to collect your ARC in person. Bring your passport and the receipt.

Tip: If you need to rent an apartment or open a bank account before your ARC is issued, ask the immigration office for a Confirmation of ARC Application (외국인 등록 사실 증명) — this document serves as proof that your ARC is in process.

Once you have your ARC:

• Register your address at the 주민센터 (전입신고) — legally required within 14 days of moving in • Open a Korean bank account — bring your ARC, passport, and Korean phone number • Register a Korean SIM card — most carriers require the ARC • Apply for a 공동인증서 (digital certificate) at your bank — this gives access to Korean government online services • Update your employer and university records with your ARC number

Your ARC is valid until your visa expiry date. When you extend your visa, your ARC will be extended at the same time — just visit the immigration office before your current one expires.