Seoul

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Visa and Registration

Guidance on immigration processes, visa types, and registration requirements for living in Seoul.

Sections

Short-Term Visas (C-Visas)

  • C-3 Tourist Visa: For tourism, visiting family, or attending short-term events (valid for up to 90 days).
  • C-4 Short-Term Employment Visa: For temporary work such as performances, lectures, or short-term contracts.

Long-Term Visas

  • D-Visas (Study/Work/Research):
    • D-2 Student Visa: For university or graduate students.
    • D-4 General Training Visa: For language training or technical training.
    • D-8 Business Investment Visa: For foreign investors or entrepreneurs.
  • E-Visas (Employment):
    • E-2 Teaching Visa: For foreign language instructors.
    • E-7 Special Occupation Visa: For professionals in specialized fields.
  • F-Visas (Family/Residency):
    • F-2 Residency Visa: For long-term residents.
    • F-4 Overseas Korean Visa: For individuals of Korean descent.
    • F-6 Marriage Visa: For spouses of Korean citizens.

Other Visas

  • H-1 Working Holiday Visa: For young adults (18โ€“30) from countries with bilateral agreements.
  • G-1 Miscellaneous Visa: For medical treatment, legal proceedings, or other special cases.

2. Visa Application Process

The visa application process varies depending on your nationality and visa type. Below are the general steps:

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type

  • Visit the official website of the Korean Immigration Service or the Korean Embassy/Consulate in your country to confirm the visa type you need.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

While requirements vary by visa type, the following are commonly required:

  • Completed Visa Application Form (downloadable from the embassy website).
  • Valid Passport (with at least 6 months of validity and blank pages).
  • Passport-Sized Photos (usually 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm, white background).
  • Proof of Financial Stability (e.g., bank statements, sponsorship letters).
  • Proof of Purpose:
    • For tourists: Flight itinerary, hotel reservations, or invitation letters.
    • For students: Admission letter from a Korean institution.
    • For workers: Employment contract or company sponsorship letter.
  • Visa Fee (varies by visa type and nationality; see below for costs).

Step 3: Submit Your Application

  • Submit your application to the Korean Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Some countries allow online applications via the Korea Visa Portal (https://www.visa.go.kr/).

Step 4: Wait for Processing

  • Processing times vary but typically take 5โ€“15 business days. Check with your local embassy for specific timelines.

Step 5: Collect Your Visa

  • Once approved, collect your visa from the embassy or consulate.

3. Visa Costs

Visa fees depend on the type of visa and your nationality. Below are approximate costs:

  • Single-Entry Visa (up to 90 days): USD 40.
  • Single-Entry Visa (over 90 days): USD 60.
  • Multiple-Entry Visa: USD 90.
  • Working Holiday Visa: Fees vary by country.

Note: Some nationalities are exempt from visa fees under bilateral agreements.

4. Registration Process in Seoul

If you plan to stay in South Korea for more than 90 days, you must register with the Korean Immigration Office to obtain an Alien Registration Card (ARC).

Step 1: Schedule an Appointment

  • Use the HiKorea website (https://www.hikorea.go.kr/) to book an appointment at your nearest immigration office.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

  • Completed Application Form (available on HiKorea or at the immigration office).
  • Valid Passport.
  • Visa (stamped in your passport).
  • Passport-Sized Photo.
  • Proof of Residence (e.g., lease agreement, utility bill, or housing confirmation from your employer/school).
  • Application Fee: KRW 30,000 (approximately USD 25).

Step 3: Visit the Immigration Office

  • Attend your appointment at the designated immigration office in Seoul (e.g., the Seoul Immigration Office in Omokgyo).
  • Submit your documents and pay the fee.

Step 4: Wait for Your ARC

  • Processing takes 2โ€“4 weeks. Once ready, you can collect your ARC or have it mailed to your address.

5. Benefits of Registering

  • Legal Stay: The ARC is proof of your legal residency in South Korea.
  • Access to Services: Youโ€™ll need the ARC to open a bank account, sign a phone contract, or enroll in health insurance.
  • Re-Entry Permit: If you plan to leave and return to South Korea, the ARC simplifies the process.

6. Local Offices and Websites

Immigration Offices in Seoul

  • Seoul Immigration Office (Main):
    • Address: 319-2 Omokgyo-dong, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul.
    • Phone: +82-2-2650-6212.
  • Sejongno Branch Office (for central Seoul):
    • Address: 18-21, Euljiro 6-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul.

Key Websites

  • Korea Visa Portal: https://www.visa.go.kr/
  • HiKorea: https://www.hikorea.go.kr/
  • Korean Immigration Service: https://www.immigration.go.kr/

7. Practical Tips

  1. Start Early: Visa and registration processes can take time, so apply well in advance.
  2. Double-Check Requirements: Requirements can vary by nationality and visa type, so confirm with your local embassy.
  3. Learn Basic Korean: While many officials speak English, knowing basic Korean phrases can be helpful.
  4. Keep Copies of Documents: Always have photocopies of your passport, visa, and ARC for emergencies.
  5. Use Online Resources: The HiKorea website is an excellent tool for scheduling appointments and checking updates.
  6. Be Polite and Patient: Korean bureaucracy can be strict, so approach the process with patience and respect.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to handle the visa and registration processes in Seoul, South Korea. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!