Getting your Alien Registration Card
If you plan to stay in Korea longer than 90 days, you must register as a foreign resident. The Alien Registration Card is your ID in Korea — banks and hospitals will ask for it first.
Who needs this
- Anyone staying more than 90 days from the date of entry
- People on long-term status: study, work, marriage migration and so on
- Short-term visitors leaving within 90 days do not need it
Steps
- Book a visit on HiKorea. Most immigration offices work by appointment; without one you may be turned away.
- Fill in the application form. Download it from HiKorea beforehand to cut waiting time.
- Visit the immigration office for your address on the booked date.
- Submit and pay the fee. The amount depends on your status — check the current fee on HiKorea.
- Receive the card. It is often mailed rather than issued on the spot.
Documents
- Passport and a passport photo
- Integrated application form (HiKorea)
- Proof of your status — employment certificate, standard labour contract, admission letter, marriage certificate, depending on your visa
- Proof of address — lease contract, dormitory confirmation
Requirements differ by status. Check the list for your own status on HiKorea before you go.
Where to go
- The immigration office covering your address
- Help line: 1345 (Immigration Contact Center, 20 languages)
- Online: www.hikorea.go.kr
Questions people ask
What if I miss the deadline? A fine may apply. If you are already late, don't leave it — call 1345 first and ask what to do.
I lost my card. Apply for a reissue. There is a deadline counted from the day you noticed the loss.
What if I move? Report the change of address together with your resident registration. Community centres often handle both at once.
Source and date
Based on public guidance from HiKorea (www.hikorea.go.kr). Fees, processing times and documents change — confirm at the source before applying.