Procedural information only. Rules change. Always confirm with the Immigration Contact Center (dial 1345, English available) or hikorea.go.kr before acting. Not legal advice.
NOTICE
1. Residence card (외국인등록증)
- If you will stay more than 90 days, apply for a residence card at your local immigration office. Book the visit on hikorea.go.kr (reservations are often full weeks ahead, book early).
- Typical documents: passport, application form, one passport photo, fee, and proof of residence (lease contract or dormitory letter). Requirements vary by visa type, check your visa's list on HiKorea.
- Most everyday infrastructure (bank account, postpaid phone plan, online ID verification) becomes much easier once you have the card.
2. Report address changes
- After moving, report your new address to immigration or your local community center (주민센터) within the legal reporting window. Do this promptly; late reporting can incur fines.
3. Health insurance
- Employees are enrolled through their employer. Long-term residents are generally enrolled in the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) automatically after a qualifying stay; premiums are billed monthly. Check your status at nhis.or.kr.
4. Phone and bank sequencing
- A Korean phone number usually comes before a bank account (banks verify by phone). Prepaid SIMs work with a passport; postpaid plans typically need a residence card.
- Bring your passport, residence card, and proof of purpose (employment certificate or enrollment letter) to the bank branch. Requirements differ by bank and branch.
Need hands-on help (bookings, document translation, phone interpretation)? Korea Concierge offers remote settling-in support. We act as your service provider, with a written quote before anything is charged.
NOTICE