Getting Your Residence Card in Korea
If you plan to stay in South Korea for more than 90 days, you usually need to register with immigration and get a Residence Card (외국인등록증). You must register within 90 days of entering Korea.
- Who needs it
- Most foreigners staying longer than 90 days
- Deadline
- Within 90 days of entering Korea
- Where
- Immigration office responsible for your address
- Fee
- ₩35,000
- Appointment
- Book through HiKorea
Some people, including certain diplomatic visa holders, are exempt. F-4 overseas Koreans commonly use a separate domestic residence reporting procedure; those who do not file that report may still be required to register as foreign residents.
How to apply
Find your immigration office
Use HiKorea to find the office responsible for your Korean address. The closest office may not be the correct one.
Book an appointment
Select Visit Reservation on HiKorea. Book early enough to meet your registration deadline.
Prepare your documents
You will normally need:
- Valid passport
- Official immigration application form (Integrated Application Form)
- One passport photo (3.5 × 4.5 cm), taken within the past six months, with a white background
- Proof of your Korean address, such as a rental agreement or accommodation confirmation
- Documents required for your visa type
- ₩35,000 card issuance fee
Some applicants also need a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate or other medical documents, depending on their nationality and immigration status.
Students, employees and people on family visas may need different supporting documents. Check your requirements before visiting.
Visit immigration
Bring your documents to the appointment. Immigration may collect your fingerprints and will explain how to receive your card.
Bring ₩35,000 in cash. Some offices use payment machines, and foreign bank cards may not work. Keep your payment receipt.
Processing times vary. Follow the instructions given by your immigration office.
Important things to know
Report address changes
Once registered, you must report your new address within:
- 15 days for most registered foreign residents
- 14 days for F-4 overseas Korean residents
Late reporting can result in fines. You can report the change through HiKorea, an immigration office or an authorized local government office.
Your Residence Card is not your visa
Your immigration status determines how long you can stay and which activities you are allowed to do.