Alien Registration Card (ARC)
If you stay in Korea for more than 90 days, you must register as a foreign resident at your local immigration office within 90 days of arrival. Registration gives you an Alien Registration Number and card (ARC) — the basic ID for almost everything: banking, phone, health insurance, contracts. Missing the deadline can lead to penalties.
What to bring
- Passport (original)
- Integrated application form (at the office or via Hi Korea)
- A passport-style color photo (check the required size)
- Fee (confirm at the official source)
- Proof of residence (lease, dorm move-in confirmation, housing-provision letter, etc.)
- Status-specific proof (e.g., enrollment certificate, standard employment contract, business registration)
Step by step
- 1Book a visit at your local immigration office on Hi Korea (hikorea.go.kr) — slots fill fast
- 2Go on your date and submit the application form and documents
- 3Wait for review/processing (usually a few weeks — varies by season/office)
- 4Receive your ARC by mail or pickup (chosen when you apply)
Tips
- ⚠️ Missing the 90-day deadline can bring penalties — book right after arrival.
- Walk-ins are often turned away; reservations usually open about a month ahead.
- Even before the card arrives, the registration number issued after applying can start some procedures.
- For questions, call the Immigration Contact Center ☎1345 (multilingual).
Key contacts
- Immigration Contact Center ☎1345 (immigration/stay, multilingual, 24h)
- Hi Korea www.hikorea.go.kr
Related guides
This is general guidance and may change over time. Always verify the latest details with the official source before applying.
Last updated: 2026-06-09