How to Get Your Residence Card in Korea

01 Getting Started
What is an Residence Card and Do You Need One?

Who Must Register?

If you are a foreign national planning to stay in South Korea for more than 90 days, you are required by law to register and obtain a Residence Card (외국인등록증)—formerly known as the Alien Registration Card (ARC). This applies to international students, foreign workers, expats, and anyone on a long-term visa. Note: You may still see the old term “Alien Registration Card” or “ARC” used in search results or older documents, but the official name is now Residence Card.

The registration requirement applies whether you arrive on a student visa, work visa, marriage visa, investor visa, or any other long-term status. Under the Immigration Control Act of Korea, you have 90 days from your arrival date to complete the registration process.

Why Does This Matter?

What’s New: Mobile Residence Card

As of January 2025, all registered foreigners in Korea can apply for a mobile version of their Residence Card (모바일외국인등록증) through the official MobileID portal. This digital version has the same legal effect as the physical card and can be displayed on your smartphone—perfect for daily convenience.

Timeline & Costs at a Glance

02 Before You Go
What You Need to Bring

Having all documents prepared before your appointment significantly speeds up the process. Here’s everything you need:

03 The Process
6 Steps to Your Registration Card

Follow these steps in order for a smooth, hassle-free registration:

1. Book Your Appointment Online
   Visit Hi Korea portal (hikorea.go.kr), create an account, and schedule your appointment. Save your confirmation code. hikorea.go.kr →
2. Prepare & Organize Documents
   Gather all required documents and arrange them in order. Double-check passport legibility. Have extra copies ready.
3. Visit Your Local Immigration Office
   Arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. With appointment: 20-30 minutes. Without: 2-4 hour wait. Find Office →
4. Submit Your Application
   Present documents to the officer. They’ll review everything and provide an application receipt with pickup date (usually 2-3 business days).
5. Track Your Status
   Card is being processed. You can check status through Hi Korea portal. No action needed during this time.
6. Pick Up Your Card
   Return with receipt on scheduled date. Check card for accuracy immediately. Any errors can be corrected on the spot.

With your Residence Card in hand, you are now ready to fully set up your life in Korea. One of the first and most important things to do with your new ID is to secure a stable home network. A reliable internet connection is not just a convenience—it’s essential infrastructure for managing your finances, work, studies, and staying connected with loved ones back home.

🎯 Your Best Option: SK broadband for Foreign Residents

SK broadband: The Best Choice for Foreign Residents

SK broadband is Korea’s leading internet service provider, ranked No.1 in customer satisfaction for 14 consecutive years. As a foreign resident, you’ll benefit from tailored solutions designed specifically for your needs:

No.1 NCSI Ranked No.1 in National Customer Satisfaction for 14 consecutive years

1-Year Contract Flexible contract terms available

Up to 39% OFF Expat Discount for foreign residents

Why Choose SK broadband?

• Ranked No.1 in the National Customer Satisfaction Index (NCSI) for 14 consecutive years
• 1-Year Contract Available – No long-term commitment required
• Expat Discount – Up to 39% savings for foreign residents
• Strong Bundle Discounts – Extra savings when combined with SK Telecom Mobile
• Installation Even at Night & Weekends – Convenient scheduling for your lifestyle
• English-Speaking Consultation – Dedicated support for international customers

💡 Ready to Get Connected? SK broadband offers tailored solutions for foreign residents in Korea. With the Expat Discount, you can save up to 39% and enjoy flexible 1-year contracts designed with your needs in mind.

→ SK broadband Official Site

04 Your Roadmap
Complete Checklist: First Steps as a Registered Foreigner

Use this checklist to ensure you don’t miss any important step:

1. Schedule your alien registration appointment online hikorea.go.kr →
2. Gather all required documents (passport, proof of residence, application form, photo)
3. Visit the immigration office on your scheduled appointment date
4. Receive your application receipt and note the pickup date
5. Return to pick up your Residence Card on scheduled date
6. Verify card accuracy immediately and request corrections if needed
7. Set up a Korean bank account using your new registration card
8. Secure reliable internet designed for foreign residents Explore Plans →
9. Update your address with employer, school, and government agencies
10. Save important contacts (Immigration info line: 1345)

FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

Registering as a foreigner in Korea and obtaining your Residence Card is straightforward when you understand the process. The card opens doors to banking, employment, housing, and full participation in Korean society. The critical thing is to start early and meet the 90-day deadline.

Once you’re registered, taking care of practical necessities like reliable internet sets you up for long-term success. A dependable connection isn’t a luxury—it’s essential infrastructure for managing life in Korea, maintaining work/study commitments, and staying connected with your support network back home.

Information Accuracy: This guide is current as of April 2026 and based on official Korean immigration law and procedures. Immigration policies, fees, and processes may change. For the most up-to-date information, always consult the official Hi Korea portal or contact immigration directly at 1345 (domestic Korea) or visit your local immigration office.