90 Days
Deadline after arrival
₩30,000
Application fee
Up to 6 Weeks
Processing time
8 Items
Required documents
What is a Residence Card?
The following guide is for individuals trying to apply for their residence card (formerly known as the Residence Card or RC) in Korea. This process should be done as soon as possible once you have arrived in Korea.
An Residence Card is now referred to as the Residence Card. It is a crucial identification card for foreigners in Korea, functioning as both a social security number and ID card. A residence card is essential for signing up for services like mobile phone plans, internet, banking, and even health insurance and pension enrollment.
You must apply for a residence card within 90 days of your arrival in Korea.
How to Apply for Your Residence Card
Follow these 5 steps to successfully register for your RC (Residence Card) after arriving in Korea.
Complete Your Medical Examination
Complete a full medical examination at a designated E-2 visa hospital within 90 days of your arrival in Korea. The exam must include tests for tuberculosis (TB) and HIV. Appointments are strongly recommended — book ahead.
Book Your Immigration Office Appointment
Make an appointment online to visit the immigration office that handles your district. Walk-in visits are usually not accepted — you must reserve a time slot through HiKorea before going.
Visit the Immigration Office
Visit the immigration office on your reserved date with the full set of required documents listed below. You can opt to have your residence card mailed to you for a small additional fee, or pick it up in person later.
Submit Your Documents
Submit all documents to the immigration officer for review. Once everything is accepted, processing may take up to 6 weeks. You will receive a receipt — keep it safe, as it acts as temporary proof of your application.
Receive Your Residence Card
Receive your residence card by mail, or visit the immigration office to pick it up once you are notified that it is ready. Once issued, your RC (Residence Card) becomes your primary ID for mobile phone plans, banking, internet, health insurance and pension enrollment.
Required Documents
Bring every item below to your immigration office appointment. Missing a document usually means rebooking your visit.
Download and complete the official application form before your visit.
1 Photocopy of School Registration License
Provided by your school or employer.
1 Passport-sized Photo (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
Korean standard size, white background, taken within 6 months.
1 Sealed Medical Test Results
Must include TB and HIV test results (TBPE). Envelope must remain sealed.
1 Photocopy of Accommodation Contract
A copy of your lease or housing contract for your Korean address.
Signed by your landlord or school if you live in school-provided housing.
₩30,000 Application Fee
Cash only. Bring exact change if possible.
Original Passport + 1 Photocopy
Bring the original and one clear photocopy of the information page.
E-2 Visa Medical Examination
About the Exam
To apply for a residence card, applicants must undergo a full medical exam at a designated E-2 visa hospital in their city. It is best to make an appointment in advance.
The medical exam checks for general health conditions, drug use, and specific diseases. The exam typically includes an X-ray, a blood test, and other physical tests.
What to Bring
- ✓2–3 Passport-size photos
- ✓Valid Passport
- ✓Testing fee: ₩60,000 – ₩150,000 (additional copies cost ₩1,000 – ₩5,000)
Fees and requirements may vary by hospital, so call ahead to verify.
Important Things to Know
90-Day Deadline
You must apply within 90 days of arriving in Korea. Missing this deadline can result in fines or complications renewing your visa.
Sealed Medical Envelope
Do not open the sealed envelope containing your medical test results. Immigration will reject opened envelopes.
Call the Hospital Ahead
Medical exam fees and specific requirements vary by hospital. Always call ahead to verify costs and what to bring.
Bring Cash
The ₩30,000 immigration fee is cash only. Most hospitals also prefer cash for the medical exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.What is the difference between an RC and a Residence Card?
They are the same thing. The Residence Card was officially renamed to the Residence Card. Many Koreans and foreigners still use the term 'RC' in everyday conversation, but all new cards issued today are called Residence Cards.
Q.What happens if I miss the 90-day deadline?
Missing the 90-day deadline can result in administrative fines and may complicate future visa renewals and extensions. If you are close to the deadline, book an immigration appointment immediately and contact your employer for support.
Q.Do I need an RC to open a Korean bank account or get a phone plan?
Yes. The RC (Residence Card) functions as both your ID and the equivalent of a social security number in Korea. You need it to sign up for mobile phone plans, internet service, banking, credit cards, health insurance, and national pension enrollment.
Q.What does the E-2 visa medical exam check for?
The medical exam screens for general health conditions, drug use, and specific communicable diseases such as tuberculosis and HIV. It typically includes a chest X-ray, blood test (TBPE), and a general physical exam.
Q.Can I pick up my Residence Card in person?
Yes. When you apply, you can choose between mail delivery (small additional fee) or picking it up in person at the immigration office once it is ready. You will be notified when it is available.
Q.How long is my Residence Card valid for?
The validity of your Residence Card matches your visa. For most E-2 teachers, this is 13 months. It must be renewed alongside your visa when you sign a new contract.
Need Help Settling in Korea?
Korvia supports its teachers from day one — medical exam, RC, banking and beyond. Apply now to join Korvia's free support network.