Step-by-Step Guide: Living in Korea as a Student (2025)
This article was published on August twenty-third, 2025.
Step-by-Step Guide: Living in Korea as a Student (2025)
Studying in Korea as an international student is an experience full of both opportunities and challenges. Unlike short-term tourism, academic life in Korea requires an understanding of local laws, immigration obligations, health insurance systems, and everyday cultural norms. This guide provides an in-depth, step-by-step explanation of what you need to do from the moment you begin preparing for departure until you finish your first year in Korea.
The entire structure is arranged chronologically:
- Before departure (2–3 months in advance)
- First 72 hours in Korea
- Within the first 2 weeks
- Within 90 days
- After receiving your Residence Card
- After 6 months of residence
- Throughout your student life
Each stage includes both legal requirements and practical lifestyle guidance. The goal is not just to help you survive in Korea but to thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Master Timeline
| Stage | Key Actions | Reference Authority |
|---|---|---|
| 2–3 months before flight | Apply for visa (D-2/D-4), secure housing, purchase private insurance | Embassy, University |
| First 72 hours | Buy SIM/eSIM, T-money transport card, attend orientation | Telecom providers, T-money |
| Within 2 weeks | Report address within 14 days, create HiKorea account | Local Community Center, HiKorea |
| Within 90 days | Apply for Residence Card (formerly ARC) | Ministry of Justice – Immigration |
| After Residence Card | Open bank account, postpaid mobile, set utilities, check NHIS | Banks, NHIS |
| After 6 months | NHIS mandatory enrollment | Ministry of Health & Welfare |
| Anytime | Apply for part-time work permit before starting employment | Immigration Office |
1. Pre-Departure (2–3 Months Before Flight)
Visa Application
The most critical step is securing the correct visa.
- D-2 Student Visa: Required for degree-seeking students or exchange programs lasting longer than 90 days.
- D-4 Visa: For language institute students or general training.
Both visas demand a valid admission letter, financial proof, passport photos, and embassy submission.
Insurance Preparation
By Korean law, international students staying more than six months are typically subject to National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) enrollment. Before this begins, you must maintain private student insurance. Many universities require proof before finalizing admission.
Housing Choices
- Dormitory: Convenient and affordable, but spaces are limited.
- Goshiwon: Tiny rooms with minimal deposit; useful for temporary stays.
- One-room/Officetel: Independent living with higher costs.
Pre-Departure Checklist
- Valid passport and visa approval letter
- Admission letter
- Financial documents
- Passport photos
- Prescription copies
- Apps: KakaoTalk, Naver Map, Papago, Korail, Baemin
2. First 72 Hours in Korea
Your first three days set the tone for your life.
- SIM/eSIM: Buy prepaid service for immediate connectivity.
- T-money Card: Purchase for bus, subway, and taxi.
- Orientation: Attend mandatory orientation for visa, insurance, and academic information.
- Neighborhood Knowledge: Identify local supermarket, subway stations, and clinics.
3. Within 2 Weeks
Address Reporting
Foreigners must report their residence address within 14 days of moving in. Report at your local Gu/Dong office or via HiKorea. Failure may result in fines.
HiKorea Account Setup
Create your HiKorea account early and book your Residence Card appointment. Appointment slots fill quickly each semester.
4. Within 90 Days
Residence Card Application
All foreign residents staying longer than 90 days must apply for a Residence Card.
Required Documents:
- Passport
- Admission letter or enrollment certificate
- Proof of residence (dormitory confirmation or lease contract)
- Biometric photo
- Application form and fee
The Residence Card unlocks access to banking, health insurance, mobile contracts, and official identity verification.
5. After Receiving Residence Card
With the Residence Card in hand, you can fully integrate into Korean systems:
- Bank Account: Open an account and enable international transfers.
- Mobile Plan: Switch from prepaid to postpaid for lower rates.
- NHIS: Universities usually notify you when enrollment becomes active.
- Utilities: Register your electricity, gas, and internet in your name.
6. Health Insurance (NHIS)
Students staying longer than six months are required to join NHIS.
Benefits of NHIS
- Reduced hospital fees
- Discounted prescriptions
- Access to university hospitals and local clinics
Initial Coverage
Use private insurance until NHIS starts. Keep receipts for claims. Always carry your NHIS card once enrolled.
7. Part-Time Work
Permission Requirement
Foreign students must apply for permission before working. Apply through HiKorea with university confirmation.
Hours Allowed
- Undergraduates: up to 20 hours per week
- Graduates: up to 30 hours per week
- More hours possible during vacation
Key Rule
Working without permission can result in fines and cancellation of your visa.
8. Housing in Detail
- Dormitories: Cheap and convenient; apply early.
- Goshiwon: Flexible, short-term housing with low deposit.
- One-room/Officetel: Independent but requires contract and deposit.
Always report address changes within 14 days to immigration.
9. Estimated Monthly Living Costs (Seoul)
| Category | Cost Range (KRW) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dormitory | 350,000 – 700,000 | Varies by university |
| Studio/Officetel | 600,000 – 1,200,000+ | Deposit required |
| Food | 350,000 – 600,000 | Cooking vs dining out |
| Transport | 30,000 – 50,000 | Subway & bus |
| Mobile & Internet | 25,000 – 60,000 | Prepaid vs postpaid |
| Utilities | 50,000 – 120,000 | Seasonal |
| Other Expenses | 100,000 – 300,000 | Depends on lifestyle |
10. Safety and Emergencies
- 112: Police
- 119: Fire and Ambulance
- 1339: Medical Hotline
- 1330: Tourist & Translation Hotline
- Seoul Global Center: Free support services
11. Academic and Cultural Adaptation
- Attendance: Crucial for grades.
- Respect: Use honorifics, greet with bow, follow hierarchy.
- Integration: Join clubs, attend cultural programs, and network with professors.
12. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not booking Residence Card appointment early.
- Failing to report address change.
- Working without authorization.
- Signing unclear lease contracts.
- Skipping insurance coverage.
- Ignoring orientation advice.
A Last Line to Keep in Mind
Your Korean journey will only be smooth if you respect the legal obligations: Residence Card, address reporting, NHIS, and part-time work approval. These are not obstacles but essential keys to building a stable and rewarding student life in Korea.
One Thing Worth Sharing
Share this guide with other students preparing for Korea. It can prevent mistakes, save money, and create peace of mind during one of the most important transitions of their lives.
Summary
- Apply for Residence Card within 90 days.
- Report address within 14 days.
- NHIS enrollment mandatory after 6 months.
- Part-time work requires permission.
- Emergency hotlines: 112, 119, 1339, 1330.
- Seoul Global Center provides free support.
FAQ
Q1. Is ARC the same as Residence Card?
Yes, ARC was renamed Residence Card.
Q2. Can I open a bank account without it?
Most banks require the Residence Card.
Q3. When does NHIS apply?
After six months of residence.
Q4. How many hours can I work?
20 hours for undergraduates, 30 for graduates, with prior permission.
Q5. Where can I find free help?
At Seoul Global Center or other local global centers.
References
- HiKorea Immigration Portal: https://www.hikorea.go.kr
- Ministry of Justice – Immigration Service: https://www.immigration.go.kr
- Ministry of Health and Welfare: https://www.mohw.go.kr
- National Health Insurance Service (NHIS): https://www.nhis.or.kr
- Seoul Global Center: https://global.seoul.go.kr
- T-money Official: https://www.tmoney.co.kr
- Image generated by AI (ChatGPT, 2025).
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