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.

Detailed Directions to Obtain Residency Status in Korea

• Prepare Necessary Documents
  • Valid passport
  • Application form (available at Hi Korea website)
  • Passport-sized color photos
  • Other supporting documents (depending on the type of visa)
• Determine the Appropriate Visa Type
  • Visit the Hi Korea Visa Navigator to find out which visa suits your purpose
  • Common types include F-2 (Long-term Resident), F-4 (Overseas Koreans), F-5 (Permanent Resident), F-6 (Marriage Migrant), etc.
• Apply for a Certificate of Visa Issuance
  • Visit the Korean Visa Portal and create an account
  • Fill out the online application form
  • Submit the required documents online
  • Pay the visa fee (if applicable)
  • Wait for the result and print the Certificate of Visa Issuance
• Apply for a Visa at the Korean Embassy/Consulate
  • Make an appointment at the Korean Embassy/Consulate in your home country
  • Submit your passport, application form, photos, Certificate of Visa Issuance, and other required documents
  • Wait for the visa to be issued
• Enter Korea and Register as a Foreigner
  • Within 90 days of arrival, visit the local Immigration Office to register as a foreigner
  • Submit your passport, Alien Registration Application form, passport-sized color photo, and any other required documents
  • Pay the registration fee
• Apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC)
  • After registering as a foreigner, apply for an ARC at the local Immigration Office
  • Submit your passport, application form, passport-sized color photo, and any other required documents
  • Pay the application fee
  • Wait for the ARC to be issued (usually takes around 3 weeks)
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the local district office (Gu Office) with your ARC and passport
  • Fill out the application form for a Personal Identification Number (Tax Number)
  • Submit the form and wait for the Tax Number to be issued
• Maintain Your Residency Status
  • Renew your visa and ARC before they expire
  • Report any changes of address or work status to the Immigration Office
  • Comply with Korean laws and regulations

These guidelines provide a general overview of the process. Depending on your specific situation, additional steps or documents may be required. Always consult official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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.