Foreign nationals intending to stay in South Korea for more than 90 days must complete foreign resident registration within 90 days of their arrival. This process is mandatory to maintain legal status. Note that as of April 2021, an online reservation via the HiKorea website is required before visiting an immigration office.
Who is required to register?
The following individuals must complete the registration process:
- Any foreign national residing in Korea for more than 90 days after entry.
- Former Korean nationals who acquired foreign citizenship and wish to reside in Korea for more than 90 days.
- Foreign nationals born in Korea who are qualified to reside in the country for more than 90 days.
Application requirements and process
To register, you must visit the competent immigration office. For most registration tasks, you must first make an appointment through HiKorea by clicking “Reserve Visit.”
Required documents
All applicants must provide the following:
- Passport: The original document and a copy of the pages containing personal information and your visa.
- Application form: A completed foreign resident registration form.
- Photo: One to three color photos (3.5cm x 4.5cm) taken within the last six months.
- Proof of residence: A document verifying your address, such as a lease agreement, confirmation of accommodation, or a utility bill payment receipt.
Fees and timelines
The registration fee is generally KRW 30,000 (paid in cash). However, fees may vary based on the type of residency, and those with D-8 visas are exempt. Once the application is processed, the residence card is typically issued within one week at the place of registration.
How to obtain a Foreign Resident Registration Certificate
Once registered, you may need a Certificate of Foreign Resident Registration (외국인등록 사실증명) to prove your legal status for banking, employment, or administrative tasks.
In-person issuance
You can obtain a certificate immediately by visiting any of the following locations with a personal ID (such as your resident registration card):
- Immigration offices or their branches nationwide.
- City halls, county offices, or gu (district) offices.
- Community Service Centers (dong offices).
The fee for in-person issuance is KRW 2,000 per copy. If an agent applies on your behalf, they must provide a Power of Attorney (POA), a copy of your ID, and their own identification.
Online issuance
Certificates can be applied for and received through the Government24 (Gov.kr) portal. This service is free of charge but requires the applicant to possess a public key certificate for identity verification.
Reporting changes to registration details
If your personal information or living situation changes, you must report it to the authorities within 14 days. This includes:
- Changes in place of residence.
- Changes to your passport.
- Changes in personal details such as name, gender, date of birth, or nationality.
- Damage to or loss of your registration card.
For changes of residence or passport, a prior visit reservation via HiKorea is generally not required when processing at an immigration office.
Next steps for foreign residents
- Verify your stay: Confirm if your visa and intended stay exceed 90 days.
- Book an appointment: Visit HiKorea to reserve a time slot at your local immigration office.
- Prepare documents: Gather your passport, photos, and lease agreement.
- Visit and pay: Attend your appointment and pay the registration fee in cash.
Official sources
- Dongdaemun-gu: Foreign Resident Registration
- Dongdaemun-gu: Issuance of Registration Certificate
- Hanam City: Foreign Resident Registration
- Government24: Certificate of Foreign Resident Registration
The Millo Blog Editorial Team reviewed official sources from the Ministry of the Interior and Safety and local government portals. Updated September 17, 2026.