1. People who need to register as foreigners

Foreign nationals who fall under the following categories must register as foreign nationals.

• Foreigners staying in Korea for more than 90 days
• Among the following persons, those staying for 90 days or more
  • A person who has lost Korean nationality and acquired foreign nationality
  • Foreigners born in Korea

2. People who are not required to register as foreigners

Alien registration is not required in the following cases.

• Diplomats and officials residing in the country
  • A-1 (diplomacy)
  • A-2 (public affairs)
  • A-3 (agreement)
• Workers in important roles such as diplomacy, industry, and national defense
• Canadian nationals intending to stay for less than 6 months who wish to engage in cultural and artistic (D-1), religious (D-6), visiting/cohabiting (F-1), accompanying (F-3), or other (G-1) activities
• Foreign nationals under the age of 17 (must register within 90 days of turning 17)

3. When should I register?

Alien registration must be completed within the following period.

• Foreign nationals intending to stay in the Republic of Korea for more than 90 days: Within 90 days from the date of entry
• Foreign nationals who have newly obtained or received permission to change their status of residence: Immediately upon receiving permission

4. Alien registration preparation documents

The following documents are required when applying for alien registration.

• Alien registration application form
• Passport
• 1 photo (3.5cm × 4.5cm)
• Documents related to status of residence
• Fee 30,000 won

5. How to register as an alien

Alien registration proceeds in the following order.

• ① Prepare the necessary documents
• ② Visit a nearby Immigration Office
• ③ Submit alien registration application form
• ④ Alien Registration Card issued after review

Once foreigner registration is complete, a mark (stamp) indicating the registration will be stamped on your passport.

6. What is an Alien Registration Card?

The Alien Registration Card is an identification card for foreigners residing in Korea.
It is used in the following cases.

• Open a bank account
• Cell phone activation
• Access to administrative services
• identity verification