Alien Registration Card Korea 2026: 90-Day Deadline, Required Documents, and the Penalty for Missing It

Bottom line: If you plan to stay in Korea longer than 90 days from your entry date, you must register as a foreigner within 90 days of entry at the immigration office covering your address. Book a visit slot first at Hi Korea (www.hikorea.go.kr) — walk-ins without a reservation are often turned away. This does not apply to tourists staying under 90 days.

If you didn't know: Staying unregistered past the 90-day window is a violation of the Immigration Control Act. The law's maximum penalty is imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of up to 10 million won. What actually happens depends on your case and the officer's judgment, but the 90-day clock keeps running while you put it off.

The rule applies the same way whether you are on a student visa (D-2), a work visa (E-7), or a marriage visa (F-6) — anyone staying past 90 days needs to register. Students typically add a certificate of enrollment or standard admission letter; workers add an employment contract or business registration copy; marriage immigrants add a certificate of marriage relationship. Processing time for the card itself usually runs a few weeks, but the exact number of days is not published officially and varies by office — ask the counter staff when you book your visit. When you leave Korea for good or your status ends, you are generally required to hand the card back to an immigration officer at departure, unless you hold a re-entry permit. If the card is lost, you can apply for reissuance at any immigration office.

This article summarizes official guidance. It is not legal, medical, or financial advice.

Journey stage: During the trip · Verified 2026-10-30