How to get your ARC (Alien Registration Card): step-by-step for 2026

To obtain your Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증 - oegugin-deungnokjeung) — officially renamed the "Residence Card" in 2021, though most people still say ARC — you must visit a local 출입국·외국인청 (chulipguk·oegugincheong) — immigration office, submit your required documentation, and complete the fingerprinting process. Without this card, you cannot legally open a bank account, sign a mobile phone contract, or register for national health insurance.

Step 1: Prepare Your Documentation

Before heading to the office, you must gather specific documents based on your visa type (e.g., E-7, D-2, or F-series). While requirements vary slightly depending on your employer or school, the core components remain consistent. It is highly recommended to bring original documents and at least one photocopy of each.

Core Document Checklist:

• Passport: Original and a copy of the bio-data page.
• Visa Grant Notice: The official paper issued when your visa was approved.
• Certificate of Enrollment (재학증명서 - jaehak jeungmyeongseo) — for students, or Employment Contract (고용계약서 - goyong gyeyakseo) — for workers.
• Proof of Residence: A lease agreement (임대차계약서 - imdaecha gyeyakseo).
• Standard Identification Photo: One recent passport-style photo (usually 3.5cm x 4.5cm).

Step 2: Reserve Your Appointment via HiKorea

Unless you are a first-time arrival at the airport, you cannot simply walk into an immigration office and expect immediate service. You must book an appointment through the 하이코리아 (HiKorea) — official immigration portal website.

1. Create an account on the HiKorea website.
2. Select "Visit Reservation" for your specific region.
3. Choose a date and time. Note that some locations are heavily booked, so try to book at least one week in advance.
4. Print the confirmation page; you will need to present this at the entrance of the immigration office.

Step 3: The Visit and Issuance Process

When you arrive at the office (such as the main branch in Seoul), proceed to the information desk with your printed appointment confirmation. They will verify your documents before directing you to a specific window.

At the window, an officer will review your files, take your fingerprints, and capture a digital photo for the card. You will then be given a "Notice of Receipt" (수령증 - suryeongjeung).

Processing Timeline Comparison:

Stage	Timeframe	Action Required
Application	Day of Visit	Submit documents and fingerprints at the office.
Processing	2 to 4 Weeks	The card is printed and mailed to your residence or held for pickup.
Collection	Upon Notification	You will receive a text or call when the card is ready for collection.

Key Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Translation: If any of your documents (like an employment contract) are not in Korean or English, you may need a notarized translation.
• Accuracy: Ensure the name and date of birth on your application exactly match your passport. Even a minor typo can delay issuance by weeks.
• The "Residence Card" name change: In 2021 the English name was changed from "Alien Registration Card" to "Residence Card" (the word "alien" was dropped). The Korean term on the card is still 외국인등록증 (oegugin-deungnokjeung). In practice, banks, landlords, and HR still use "ARC" interchangeably — don't worry if you hear all three.

If you are unsure about specific documents for your unique visa sub-type, contact the 1345 immigration hotline before booking your appointment.