Jeonju

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Immigration Services

Information on visa applications, residency permits, and related immigration processes.

Sections

1. Immigration Services in Jeonju

Jeonju does not have its own immigration office, but it is served by the Jeonbuk Immigration Office, located in the nearby city of Iksan. This office handles immigration-related matters for residents of Jeonju and the surrounding Jeollabuk-do (North Jeolla Province) region.

Jeonbuk Immigration Office (Iksan)

  • Address: 33-6 Jungang-ro, Iksan-si, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea
  • Phone: +82-63-830-6200
  • Website: Hi Korea (official immigration portal)
  • Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (closed on weekends and public holidays)
  • Languages: Korean and limited English (you may want to bring a Korean-speaking friend or translator if needed).

2. Immigration Procedures

The Jeonbuk Immigration Office provides a range of services, including visa applications, extensions, alien registration, and other immigration-related matters. Below are the key procedures you may need to complete:

A. Visa Applications

If you are applying for a visa to stay in South Korea, you will need to follow these steps:

  1. Determine Your Visa Type: Common visa types include:
    • Tourist Visa (C-3)
    • Student Visa (D-2)
    • Work Visa (E-series, depending on your job type)
    • Spouse Visa (F-6)
    • Long-term Residency Visa (F-2, F-5)
  2. Prepare Required Documents:
    • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
    • Completed visa application form
    • Passport-sized photos (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm)
    • Supporting documents (e.g., proof of employment, school admission letter, financial proof, etc.)
    • Visa fee (varies by visa type and nationality)
  3. Submit Application: Applications can be submitted at the Korean embassy/consulate in your home country or at the Jeonbuk Immigration Office if you are already in Korea.

B. Visa Extensions

If you need to extend your stay in South Korea, you must apply for a visa extension before your current visa expires.

  1. Required Documents:
    • Passport
    • Alien Registration Card (ARC)
    • Application form
    • Proof of continued eligibility for your visa type (e.g., employment contract, school enrollment certificate)
    • Extension fee (approximately KRW 60,000)
  2. Application Process:
    • Visit the Jeonbuk Immigration Office or apply online via the Hi Korea portal.
    • Submit your documents and pay the fee.

C. Alien Registration

Foreigners staying in South Korea for more than 90 days must apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC) within 90 days of arrival.

  1. Required Documents:
    • Passport
    • Completed application form
    • Passport-sized photo
    • Proof of residence (e.g., lease agreement, utility bill)
    • Application fee (KRW 30,000)
  2. Process:
    • Visit the Jeonbuk Immigration Office to submit your application.
    • The ARC will be issued within 2-3 weeks.

D. Re-entry Permits

If you plan to leave South Korea temporarily and return, check whether your visa requires a re-entry permit. Most long-term visa holders (e.g., F-2, F-6) are exempt from this requirement, but itโ€™s best to confirm with the immigration office.

3. Associated Costs and Financial Considerations

  • Visa Application Fees: Vary depending on the visa type and nationality (typically KRW 30,000 to KRW 150,000).
  • Alien Registration Card (ARC): KRW 30,000.
  • Visa Extension Fee: KRW 60,000.
  • Translation and Notarization: If your documents are not in Korean or English, you may need to have them translated and notarized. Costs vary but typically range from KRW 20,000 to KRW 50,000 per document.
  • Transportation to Iksan: From Jeonju, you can take a bus or train to Iksan. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes and costs approximately KRW 3,000 to KRW 5,000.

4. Local Services in Jeonju

While the immigration office is in Iksan, Jeonju offers several local services to assist with immigration-related matters:

A. Translation and Interpretation Services

  • Jeonju Multicultural Family Support Center:
    • Provides translation and interpretation services for foreigners.
    • Address: 20-1, Jeonjucheonseo-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do.
    • Phone: +82-63-231-3181.
    • Services are often free or low-cost for residents.

B. Legal and Visa Assistance

  • Korean Immigration and Integration Program (KIIP):
    • A government program offering free Korean language and culture classes, which can help with visa points for long-term residency.
    • Visit the Hi Korea website to register.

C. Banking and Financial Services

  • Opening a bank account is essential for managing finances in Korea. Major banks in Jeonju include KB Kookmin Bank, Shinhan Bank, and Woori Bank. Bring your ARC, passport, and proof of address to open an account.

5. Cultural Considerations

  • Language Barrier: While some immigration officers may speak English, itโ€™s advisable to bring a Korean-speaking friend or hire a translator for complex matters.
  • Punctuality: Arrive early for your appointment at the immigration office, as it can get busy.
  • Politeness: Korean culture values politeness and respect. Use formal language and bow slightly when greeting officials.
  • Dress Code: Dress neatly when visiting government offices to make a good impression.

6. Tips for Navigating Immigration Services

  • Make an Appointment: Use the Hi Korea website to book an appointment in advance to avoid long wait times.
  • Keep Copies of Documents: Always carry copies of your passport, visa, and ARC in case of emergencies.
  • Stay Informed: Immigration laws and policies can change, so regularly check the Hi Korea website or consult with the Jeonbuk Immigration Office for updates.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to handle immigration-related matters in Jeonju and the surrounding region. If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask!