Administrative Guides

How to Apply for a Korean Alien Registration Card (ARC)

Written by lifeatlas
Korea administrative guide

How to Apply for a Korean Alien Registration Card (ARC)

If you will stay in Korea for more than a short visit, the Alien Registration Card is the ID you will use for banking, phone plans, housing contracts, school or work records, and many everyday services.

Who needs itMost long-stay foreign residents in Korea, depending on visa type and stay period.
When to applyIn general, apply within 90 days of entering Korea, or before your permitted stay/visa status requires registration.
Where to applyReserve a visit through HiKorea and go to the immigration office that covers your Korean address.
Quick note
Rules can differ by visa type, school, employer, and immigration office. Use this guide as a preparation checklist, then confirm your exact document list on HiKorea or with the immigration contact center before your appointment.

1. Check whether you must register

Foreigners who stay in Korea for an extended period usually need foreigner registration. Typical examples include students, employees, family-stay residents, long-term language trainees, and other residents whose visa status is not just a short tourist visit.

The practical rule is simple: if you are settling in Korea and need a Korean address, bank account, local phone number, school record, employment record, or health-insurance administration, you should assume the ARC process matters and confirm it early.

2. Prepare the main documents

DocumentWhat to prepare
PassportBring the original passport. Keep a copy of the identity page if your school or employer asks for it.
Application formUse the integrated application form provided by immigration/HiKorea or at the office.
PhotoPrepare an ID photo that matches immigration photo rules. A recent passport-style photo is usually safest.
Proof of residenceLease contract, confirmation of residence/accommodation, dormitory certificate, or other address proof accepted for your case.
Visa/status documentsCertificate of admission/enrollment, employment contract, business registration documents, invitation/family documents, or other papers required for your visa type.
FeePrepare the registration/card issuance fee and optional delivery fee if you want the card mailed. Check the latest amount before visiting.

3. Reserve a visit on HiKorea

  1. Go to HiKorea and choose the visit reservation service.
  2. Select the immigration office that has jurisdiction over your Korean address.
  3. Choose the correct service category for foreigner registration.
  4. Save or screenshot the reservation confirmation.

In busy periods, especially around university semester starts, appointment slots can fill quickly. Do not wait until the last week if your school or employer already told you to register.

4. Visit the immigration office

Arrive early, bring originals and copies, and keep your phone available in case staff ask you to show an online confirmation or contact information. At the office, you may submit fingerprints, pay fees, and receive a receipt showing how and when you can collect the card.

5. After you receive the ARC

  • Check that your name, nationality, status of stay, and period of stay are correct.
  • Use the ARC for phone verification, bank account setup, and official records.
  • If your address changes, report the change within the required period.
  • If your visa status, school, employer, or stay period changes, check whether a separate report or extension is required.

Common mistakes

  • Booking the wrong immigration office instead of the office for your actual Korean address.
  • Bringing a lease contract without the extra residence confirmation your office asks for.
  • Waiting too long during school/employment peak seasons.
  • Assuming a document list from a friend with a different visa type also applies to you.

Official sources