I just arrived in Korea on a long-term visa?
I just arrived in Korea on a long-term visa. Everyone tells me I need to register as a foreigner and get an ARC card. What exactly do I need to do, where do I go, and what documents should I bring?
Note: This is an editorial persona question created from common experiences of foreign residents in Korea.
1 Answer
Within 90 days of arriving on a long-term visa you must register as a foreigner and get your ARC at the immigration office for your area, ideally booking an appointment on HiKorea first since walk-ins get long waits. Bring your passport, a passport photo, the application form, the fee (around 30,000 won), and proof of address (lease or a dormitory or accommodation confirmation), plus any documents specific to your visa like an enrollment or employment certificate. After you apply, the card arrives by mail in a couple of weeks, and until then keep the receipt as proof of status. Do this early, since the ARC unlocks banking, phone, and most services.