Guide to Residency in Korea

Obtaining a residency visa in Korea is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Korea gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research Visa Types
  • Visit the Korea Visa Portal Korea Visa Portal to understand different visa types.
  • Choose the appropriate visa type based on your purpose of stay, such as work, study, or family reunion.
• Prepare Required Documents
  • Gather personal documents such as passport, proof of employment or school enrollment, and financial statements.
  • Obtain a criminal background check from your home country.
  • Get a health checkup either in your home country or upon arrival in Korea.
• Apply for a Visa
  • Fill out the visa application form, which can be downloaded from the Korea Visa Portal.
  • Submit the application form along with the required documents to the nearest Korean embassy or consulate.
  • Pay the visa application fee.
• Enter South Korea
  • Once your visa is approved, make travel arrangements to enter South Korea.
  • Upon arrival, present your visa to the immigration officer.
• Apply for Alien Registration Card (ARC)
  • Visit the Immigration Office within 90 days of your arrival in Korea.
  • Fill out the application for an Alien Registration Card.
  • Submit a passport photo, your passport, and proof of residence.
  • Pay the processing fee.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the National Tax Service website National Tax Service to learn about the tax number application process.
  • Fill out the application form for a tax identification number (TIN).
  • Submit the form along with a copy of your ARC to the local tax office.
• Open a Bank Account
  • Choose a bank that offers services for foreigners.
  • Visit the bank in person with your ARC and passport.
  • Fill out the necessary forms to open an account.
• Understand and Comply with Residency Obligations
  • Stay informed about the duration of your visa and apply for extensions if necessary.
  • Report any changes in employment, address, or marital status to the Immigration Office.
  • Renew your ARC as required.
• Consider Applying for Permanent Residency or Citizenship
  • After residing in Korea for the required period, you may be eligible for permanent residency or citizenship.
  • Check the eligibility criteria on the Korea Immigration Service website Korea Immigration Service.
  • Prepare the necessary documents and apply through the Immigration Office.

Please note that the process and requirements for obtaining residency status in Korea can change, so it is important to check the latest information from official sources or consult with immigration experts.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Korea?

"In order to visit or stay in Korea, foreign nationals must obtain a visa from a Korean embassy or consulate. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and other documents such as a bank statement or proof of employment. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to apply for residency in Korea, foreign nationals must submit an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and other documents such as a bank statement or proof of employment. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. In addition, applicants must provide proof of financial stability, such as a bank statement or proof of employment. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit, which must be renewed every year," commented one member living in Korea.