ARC Guide 🏛️
외국인등록증 가이드
How to Get Your Alien Registration Card (ARC) in Korea
Complete step-by-step guide to applying for your ARC within 90 days of arrival in Korea.
Quick Summary (TL;DR)
- Who needs it: All foreigners staying in Korea for more than 90 days
- Deadline: Must apply within 90 days of arrival
- Where: Local Immigration Office
- Cost: 30,000 KRW (approx. $22 USD)
- Processing time: 1-2 weeks
- Validity: Same as your visa period
What is an ARC?
The Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증) is an official ID card for foreigners living in Korea. It's mandatory for anyone staying longer than 90 days, regardless of visa type.
What you can do with an ARC:
- ✓Open a bank account
- ✓Get a mobile phone plan
- ✓Sign apartment contracts
- ✓Register for health insurance
- ✓Use it as photo ID (instead of carrying passport)
Who Needs to Apply?
Required for:
- Students (D-2, D-4 visa)
- English teachers (E-2 visa)
- Office workers (E-7, D-10 visa)
- Spouses (F-6 visa)
- Any visa holder staying 90+ days
Not required for:
- Tourist visa (C-3) - 90 days or less
- Business travelers (short stay)
- Transit passengers
Required Documents
Basic Documents (Everyone)
- Passport
- • Original + copy of photo/visa pages
- Passport Photo
- • Size: 3.5cm × 4.5cm
- • White background
- • Recent photo (within 6 months)
- Application Form
- • Download from hikorea.go.kr
- • Available at immigration office
- Application Fee: 30,000 KRW
Step-by-Step Application Process
1Find Your Local Immigration Office
You must apply at the office in your residential area.
Major offices:
- Seoul: Seoul Immigration Office (Mokdong) - Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00-18:00
- Incheon: Incheon Immigration Office
- Busan: Busan Immigration Office
- Daegu: Daegu Immigration Office
2Make an Appointment (Recommended)
Online reservation at hikorea.go.kr or walk-in (expect 1-3 hour wait).
💡 Pro Tip:
Go early (before 9:30 AM) to avoid long waits. Bring a book!
3Visit Immigration & Submit
Submit your documents, get fingerprints scanned, pay 30,000 KRW, and receive a receipt with pick-up date.
4Pick Up Your ARC (1-2 weeks)
Return with your passport and receipt. Check your card for errors immediately!
Tips from Expats
Best Time to Visit
- • Early morning (arrive at 8:45 AM)
- • Tue-Thu (less crowded)
- • Avoid Mondays & lunch time
Bring These
- • Pen, book, water, snacks
- • Phone charger
- • Korean-speaking friend (helpful)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel outside Korea while waiting for my ARC?
Yes, you can travel with your passport and visa. Your ARC will be ready when you return.
What if I lose my ARC?
Report to police first (get report), then visit immigration with passport, police report, photo, and 30,000 KRW for replacement.
Do I need to carry my ARC all the time?
Technically yes (as ID), but passport is also acceptable. Most people carry ARC as it's easier.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes based on current regulations as of November 2025. Immigration policies can change. Always verify with official sources at hikorea.go.kr or call 1345.