Daejeon

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Government Services

Sections

1. Immigration Services

Immigration services in Daejeon are managed by the Korea Immigration Service (KIS), which operates under the Ministry of Justice. The Daejeon Immigration Office is the primary point of contact for visa-related matters, alien registration, and other immigration needs.

Key Services:

  • Alien Registration Card (ARC): Required for all foreigners staying in South Korea for more than 90 days.
  • Visa Extensions and Changes: For those needing to extend their stay or change their visa type.
  • Re-entry Permits: For foreigners who plan to leave and return to South Korea during their stay.
  • Naturalization and Permanent Residency Applications.

Procedures:

  1. Alien Registration Card (ARC):

    • Who Needs It: All foreigners staying in South Korea for more than 90 days.
    • Where to Apply: Daejeon Immigration Office.
    • Required Documents:
      • Passport.
      • Visa (stamped in your passport).
      • Completed application form (available at the immigration office or online).
      • Proof of residence (e.g., lease agreement or a letter from your landlord).
      • Passport-sized photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm).
      • Application fee: KRW 30,000 (cash only).
    • Processing Time: Typically 2-3 weeks.
    • Cultural Tip: Dress formally or neatly when visiting government offices, as this is considered respectful.

  2. Visa Extensions:

    • Required Documents:
      • Passport and ARC.
      • Completed application form.
      • Proof of financial stability (e.g., bank statements).
      • Proof of continued purpose of stay (e.g., employment contract, school enrollment).
      • Application fee: KRW 60,000 (cash only).
    • Processing Time: 1-2 weeks.

Local Considerations:

  • Appointments can be made online via the HiKorea website (https://www.hikorea.go.kr).
  • English-speaking staff may be limited, so consider bringing a Korean-speaking friend or using a translation app.
  • Offices are typically busiest in the mornings, so arriving early is recommended.

2. Healthcare Registration

South Korea has a universal healthcare system, and all residents, including foreigners with an ARC, are required to enroll in the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS).

Key Services:

  • Enrollment in the National Health Insurance (NHI).
  • Access to public hospitals and clinics.
  • Subsidized medical treatments and prescriptions.

Procedures:

  1. Enrollment in NHIS:

    • Who Needs It: Foreigners with an ARC who stay in South Korea for more than 6 months.
    • Where to Apply: Local NHIS office or online.
    • Required Documents:
      • Alien Registration Card (ARC).
      • Passport.
      • Proof of employment (if applicable) or proof of residence.
    • Cost: Monthly premiums vary based on income but typically range from KRW 100,000 to KRW 150,000 for individuals.
    • Processing Time: Immediate upon application.

  2. Using Healthcare Services:

    • Present your ARC or NHI card at hospitals or clinics.
    • Co-payments for medical services are typically 20-30% of the total cost, with the government covering the rest.
    • Prescriptions are subsidized, and pharmacies are widely available.

Local Considerations:

  • Many doctors and staff in Daejeon speak basic English, but for specialized care, you may need a translator.
  • Daejeon has several public hospitals, including Chungnam National University Hospital and Daejeon St. Maryโ€™s Hospital, which are well-equipped for foreigners.

3. Social Services

Daejeon offers a range of social services to support residents, including welfare programs, childcare support, and community centers.

Key Services:

  • Welfare Programs: Financial assistance for low-income families, the elderly, and disabled individuals.
  • Childcare Support: Subsidies for daycare and after-school programs.
  • Employment Support: Job training and placement services for foreigners and locals.
  • Cultural Integration Programs: Free or low-cost Korean language classes and cultural workshops.

Procedures:

  1. Accessing Welfare Programs:

    • Where to Apply: Local district office (๊ตฌ์ฒญ, Gu-cheong).
    • Required Documents:
      • ARC.
      • Proof of income or financial hardship.
      • Proof of residence.
    • Cost: Free to apply; benefits depend on eligibility.

  2. Childcare Support:

    • Where to Apply: Local district office or online via the Bokjiro website (https://www.bokjiro.go.kr).
    • Required Documents:
      • ARC.
      • Proof of employment (if applicable).
      • Childโ€™s birth certificate.
    • Cost: Subsidies vary but can cover up to 90% of daycare costs.

  3. Employment Support:

    • Where to Apply: Local employment centers or the Worknet website (https://www.work.go.kr).
    • Required Documents:
      • ARC.
      • Resume (in Korean or English).
    • Cost: Free.

Local Considerations:

  • Social services staff may not always speak English, so bringing a Korean-speaking friend or translator is helpful.
  • Community centers (์ฃผ๋ฏผ์„ผํ„ฐ, Jumin Center) in each neighborhood often host free Korean language classes and cultural events to help foreigners integrate.

4. Other Government Services

  • Driverโ€™s License Conversion:
    • Foreigners with a valid driverโ€™s license from their home country can convert it to a Korean license.
    • Visit the Daejeon Driverโ€™s License Examination Office with your ARC, passport, and home country license.
    • Cost: KRW 12,500 for the application fee, plus additional fees for vision tests.
  • Tax Services:
    • Foreign residents are required to file taxes annually. The National Tax Service (NTS) provides online filing services in English via the Hometax website (https://www.hometax.go.kr).

General Tips for Accessing Government Services in Daejeon:

  1. Language Barrier: While some government offices have English-speaking staff, itโ€™s advisable to bring a Korean-speaking friend or use a translation app.
  2. Office Hours: Most government offices operate from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Friday. They are closed on weekends and public holidays.
  3. Online Services: Many services can be accessed online via government portals like HiKorea, NHIS, and Worknet.
  4. Cultural Etiquette: Be polite and patient when dealing with government officials. Bowing is a common sign of respect.

By following these guidelines, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate the government services in Daejeon, South Korea. Let me know if you need further assistance!