Daegu

๐ŸŒ

Immigration Support

Services to assist immigrants with visas, work permits, and other legal documentation.

Sections

1. Visa Applications and Residency Processes

Visa Categories

South Korea offers various visa types depending on your purpose of stay. Common visa categories for immigrants include:

  • Work Visas (E-series): For professionals, teachers, and skilled workers.
  • Student Visas (D-series): For international students enrolled in Korean universities.
  • Family Visas (F-series): For family reunification or long-term residency.
  • Permanent Residency (F-5): For those seeking to settle permanently.
  • Naturalization: For those aiming to become South Korean citizens.

Key Steps for Visa Applications

  1. Determine Visa Type: Check the visa type that matches your purpose of stay on the Korean Immigration Service website.
  2. Prepare Required Documents:
    • Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
    • Completed visa application form.
    • Passport-sized photos (3.5cm x 4.5cm).
    • Proof of financial stability (bank statements, employment contracts, etc.).
    • Additional documents depending on visa type (e.g., admission letter for students, employment contract for workers).
  3. Submit Application: Applications can be submitted at the Korean Embassy/Consulate in your home country or at the Daegu Immigration Office if you are already in South Korea.
  4. Pay Fees: Visa fees vary by type and nationality but typically range from KRW 30,000 to KRW 150,000.

Residency (Alien Registration Card - ARC)

  • Who Needs It: All foreigners staying in South Korea for more than 90 days.
  • How to Apply:
    1. Visit the Daegu Immigration Office within 90 days of arrival.
    2. Submit the following:
      • Passport.
      • Completed ARC application form.
      • Passport-sized photo.
      • Proof of residence (lease agreement, utility bill, etc.).
      • Visa issuance confirmation.
    3. Pay the fee (KRW 30,000).
  • Processing Time: 2-3 weeks.
  • Renewals: Must be done before the expiration date at the same office.

2. Integration Programs for Immigrants

Korean Immigration and Integration Program (KIIP)

  • Overview: A government-sponsored program to help immigrants learn Korean language and culture, and integrate into society.
  • Benefits:
    • Free or low-cost Korean language classes.
    • Cultural education (laws, customs, and daily life in Korea).
    • Completion of the program can simplify visa renewals or permanent residency applications.
  • How to Enroll:
    1. Register online at the Hi Korea website (www.hikorea.go.kr).
    2. Take a placement test to determine your level.
    3. Attend classes at designated centers in Daegu.
  • Cost: Free for most participants.

Local Support Centers for Foreign Residents

  • Daegu Global Center:
    • Offers Korean language classes, cultural exchange programs, and legal/administrative support.
    • Location: 10th Floor, Daegu City Hall Annex, Jung-gu, Daegu.
    • Website: Daegu Global Center
    • Phone: +82-53-803-7700
  • Multicultural Family Support Centers:
    • Provide counseling, language support, and family integration services.
    • Locations: Various branches across Daegu (e.g., in Dalseo-gu, Suseong-gu).

3. Key Immigration Offices in Daegu

Daegu Immigration Office

  • Address: 47, Gongpyeong-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu.
  • Services:
    • Visa applications and extensions.
    • Alien Registration Card (ARC) issuance and renewals.
    • Permanent residency and naturalization applications.
  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (closed on weekends and public holidays).
  • Contact: +82-1345 (Immigration Hotline, available in multiple languages).
  • Website: Hi Korea

Daegu Immigration Office - Gyeongsan Branch

  • Address: 10, Gyeongsan-ro, Gyeongsan-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do (near Daegu).
  • Services: Similar to the main office but caters to residents in the outskirts of Daegu.
  • Contact: +82-53-819-7600.

4. Costs and Fees

  • Visa Application Fees: KRW 30,000 - KRW 150,000 (varies by type and nationality).
  • Alien Registration Card (ARC): KRW 30,000.
  • KIIP Program: Free or minimal cost.
  • Translation/Notarization Services: KRW 10,000 - KRW 50,000 per document (if required).

5. Cultural and Local Considerations

Language Barrier

  • While English is spoken in some government offices, most services are conducted in Korean. Itโ€™s advisable to bring a Korean-speaking friend or hire a translator if needed.
  • Learning basic Korean phrases or enrolling in a language program (e.g., KIIP) can significantly ease your integration.

Punctuality and Documentation

  • South Korean offices are strict about punctuality and documentation. Ensure all forms are completed accurately, and bring original documents along with photocopies.

Respect for Local Customs

  • Bowing is a common form of greeting.
  • Dress modestly and behave respectfully in public spaces, especially in government offices.

Public Transportation

  • Daegu has an efficient subway and bus system. The Daegu Metro connects most parts of the city, including the immigration office. Use a T-money card for convenient travel.

Emergency Contacts

  • Immigration Hotline: 1345 (available in multiple languages).
  • Police: 112.
  • Medical Emergency: 119.

6. Additional Resources

  • Hi Korea Website: Comprehensive portal for immigration services (www.hikorea.go.kr).
  • Daegu Global Center: Offers free consultations and support for foreign residents.
  • Korean Red Cross: Provides humanitarian support and emergency assistance to immigrants.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to navigate the immigration process and settle into life in Daegu. If you have further questions or need personalized assistance, feel free to reach out to the Daegu Global Center or the immigration hotline.