Korea ARC Card: What It Is (Clear Guide)

The ARC (Alien Registration Card / 외국인등록증) is ID for foreigners residing in Korea over 90 days (depending on status).

Who needs it?

Students, workers, spouses, long-term stays. Short K-ETA tourists usually don’t need one.

What it’s for

Opening a bank account, phone plans, some government apps, ID checks, sometimes rentals.

Good habit

Photo front/back as soon as you get it and store offline. Losing an ARC is a real headache.

Key vocabulary

Tip

Book via the immigration site / Hi Korea app when possible: walk-in lines vary by district.

Go further

Find these words in the Seonsaengnim dictionary and practice them in lessons / flashcards with native audio.