Global Major Cities Guide

Information about public service offices for visas, residency permits, taxes, and administrative tasks.

Sections

1. Overview of Local Government Offices in Busan

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, operates under a decentralized local government system. The city is divided into 16 districts (구, gu) and counties (군, gun), each with its own district office (gu-office). These offices handle various administrative tasks, including finance and local services. The Busan Metropolitan City Hall oversees city-wide governance and policy implementation.

For finance and local services, you will primarily interact with:

District Offices (구청, gu-cheong)
Tax Offices (세무서, se-mu-seo)
Business Support Centers
Community Service Centers (주민센터, jumin-senteo)

Finance-related services in Busan include tax payments, property registration, and business-related financial matters.

A. Tax Payments

Tax services are managed by the National Tax Service (NTS), with local branches in Busan.

Key Tax Offices in Busan:
- Busanjin Tax Office (부산진세무서)
  - Address: 20, Jungang-daero 680beon-gil, Busanjin-gu, Busan
  - Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  - Services Offered: Income tax, corporate tax, VAT, property tax, and tax consultations.
- Haeundae Tax Office (해운대세무서)
  - Address: 35, Centum jungang-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan
  - Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  - Services Offered: Tax filing, tax refunds, and business tax registration.
Costs:
- Tax filing is free if done online via the Hometax system (https://www.hometax.go.kr).
- Late payments incur penalties, which vary depending on the tax type and delay duration.
Procedure:
1. Visit the tax office or use the Hometax website.
2. Bring your Alien Registration Card (ARC), passport, and any relevant financial documents.
3. For in-person visits, take a queue number and wait for your turn.
4. Consult with a tax officer for guidance on payments or refunds.
Cultural Considerations:
- Koreans value punctuality, so ensure you meet tax deadlines.
- Most tax officers speak limited English. Bring a Korean-speaking friend or use a translation app if needed.

B. Business Registration

Business registration is handled by the Busan District Tax Offices and the Small and Medium Business Administration (SMBA).

Key Office:
- Busan Business Support Center
  - Address: 140, Suyeonggangbyeon-daero, Haeundae-gu, Busan
  - Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  - Services Offered: Business registration, licensing, and financial support for startups.
Costs:
- Business registration fees range from KRW 40,000 to KRW 100,000, depending on the business type.
Procedure:
1. Prepare required documents: ARC, passport, business plan, and lease agreement (if applicable).
2. Visit the Business Support Center or apply online via the Hometax system.
3. Submit your application and pay the registration fee.
4. Receive your business registration certificate within 3-5 business days.
Cultural Considerations:
- Koreans emphasize thorough documentation. Ensure all forms are complete and accurate.
- Dress formally when visiting government offices to make a good impression.

3. Local Services

Local services include resident registration, utility setup, and community programs.

A. Resident Registration

Foreigners staying in Korea for more than 90 days must register for an Alien Registration Card (ARC) at the Busan Immigration Office.

Key Office:
- Busan Immigration Office
  - Address: 123, Chungjang-daero, Dong-gu, Busan
  - Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  - Services Offered: ARC issuance, visa extensions, and address registration.
Costs:
- ARC issuance fee: KRW 30,000.
Procedure:
1. Book an appointment online via the HiKorea website (https://www.hikorea.go.kr).
2. Bring your passport, visa, and a passport-sized photo.
3. Submit your application and pay the fee.
4. Collect your ARC after 2-3 weeks.
Cultural Considerations:
- Be polite and patient, as immigration offices can be busy.
- Learn basic Korean phrases to ease communication.

B. Utility Setup

Setting up utilities (electricity, water, gas) is done through your district office or directly with utility providers.

Procedure:
1. Visit your local Community Service Center (주민센터) or contact utility companies.
2. Provide your ARC, lease agreement, and contact information.
3. Pay a deposit (if required) and set up automatic payments.
Cultural Considerations:
- Utility bills are typically paid monthly via bank transfer or at convenience stores.
- Keep receipts for record-keeping.

C. Community Programs

Community Service Centers offer programs like Korean language classes, cultural workshops, and volunteer opportunities.

Key Office:
- Haeundae Community Service Center
  - Address: 23, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan
  - Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  - Services Offered: Language classes, cultural events, and public welfare programs.
Costs:
- Most programs are free or have minimal fees (KRW 10,000 - KRW 50,000).
Procedure:
1. Visit the center or check their website for program schedules.
2. Register in person or online.
3. Attend classes or events as scheduled.
Cultural Considerations:
- Participation in community programs is a great way to integrate into local society.
- Be respectful of cultural norms, such as removing shoes indoors and addressing elders formally.

4. Practical Tips for Visiting Government Offices

Language Barrier: While some staff may speak English, it’s advisable to bring a Korean-speaking friend or use a translation app.
Documents: Always carry your ARC, passport, and any relevant paperwork.
Payment Methods: Most offices accept cash or bank transfers. Credit cards may not be accepted for certain fees.
Timing: Avoid visiting on Mondays or after lunch hours, as these are peak times.
Dress Code: Dress neatly and conservatively to show respect.

5. Emergency Contacts

Busan Metropolitan City Call Center: 120 (for general inquiries)
National Tax Service Helpline: 126 (English support available)
Immigration Office Helpline: 1345 (multilingual support)

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Busan’s local government offices for finance and local services. Let me know if you need further assistance!

Busan

Local Government Offices