How to Register as a Foreigner in Korea: ARC (Alien Registration Card) Process Guide

Step-by-Step Instructions to Legally Stay in Korea Long-Term

1. What Is the ARC and Why Do You Need It?

The Alien Registration Card (ARC) is your official ID in Korea as a foreigner.

You need an ARC if you’re staying in Korea for more than 90 days, whether you're:

  • A student

  • A language program attendee

  • A foreign worker

  • A spouse of a Korean citizen

🪪 With an ARC, you can:

  • Open a bank account

  • Sign a mobile phone contract

  • Get national health insurance

  • Travel domestically and re-enter Korea

2. When and Where to Apply for the ARC

  • You must apply within 90 days of arriving in Korea.

  • Visit the local immigration office responsible for your residential district.

💻 First, you must make a reservation through the HiKorea website:
👉 https://www.hikorea.go.kr

⏰ Appointments fill up quickly, so book as early as possible after arriving.

3. Required Documents for ARC Application

Here’s what you’ll need (depending on visa type):

  • Passport (original and copy)

  • Valid visa sticker or approval document

  • 1 color photo (3.5 x 4.5 cm, white background)

  • Application form (available at the office or online)

  • Processing fee: KRW 30,000 (cash or card)

  • Proof of residence (housing contract or letter from host)

  • Enrollment certificate / work contract depending on visa

📎 Some visas (like D-4 or D-2 for students) may require a certificate of business registration from your school or employer.

4. Step-by-Step ARC Registration Process

  1. Book an appointment at HiKorea

  2. Prepare all required documents

  3. Visit the immigration office at your appointment time

  4. Submit documents + photo + pay the fee

  5. Leave fingerprints and sign

📝 You’ll receive a receipt (수령증) with your ARC pick-up date.

📦 Processing time: Usually 3–5 weeks

5. How to Pick Up Your ARC

Once notified (via text or receipt):

  • Go to the same immigration office

  • Bring your receipt and passport

  • Your ARC card will be valid for the duration of your visa

📬 Some offices may offer mail delivery for an extra fee.

6. What Happens If You Don’t Register?

If you fail to register within 90 days:

  • You may face fines of up to KRW 1 million

  • It could impact your future visa renewals or travel plans

Don’t wait until the last minute—early registration is strongly recommended.

7. Helpful Korean Phrases at Immigration

  • “외국인 등록증 신청하러 왔어요.” — I’m here to apply for an ARC.

  • “예약했어요.” — I have an appointment.

  • “이 서류가 맞나요?” — Is this the right document?

  • “언제 찾으러 올 수 있나요?” — When can I pick it up?

📲 Use Papago for real-time translation while speaking or filling forms.


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