Alien Registration Card (ARC) basics

Not official advice. Procedures and offices vary by city. Verify on HI-Korea and your local immigration office pages.

Who typically needs an ARC

If you stay in Korea beyond a short visa-exempt or tourist window under a long-term status, you usually register as a foreign resident and receive an Alien Registration Card (residence card).

What to prepare (checklist mindset)

• Passport and status documents
• Proof of address in Korea
• Photos that meet the current size/background rules
• Appointment confirmation if your office requires one

Exact forms change—download the latest from the official portal.

Official links

• HI-Korea
• Immigration.go.kr

Tip

Book early around semester starts and peak move-in months. Walk-in capacity is not guaranteed.