How to Register Your Address in Korea

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What Every Foreigner Should Know About Address Registration in Korea

※ This article was first published on 2025-08-26, and last updated on 2025-08-30.

Immigration policies and visa categories may change. Always confirm updates through official government websites and certified institutions.

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Cover image credit: Image generated by AI (ChatGPT, 2025).
AI-generated images are strictly for editorial purposes only, comply with free commercial-use licenses (Unsplash, Pixabay, Pexels), and are not permitted for resale or standalone commercial use.
Images do not depict actual people, places, or events.

Editorial & AI Assistance Notice

Editorial & AI Assistance Notice: This article was prepared by HACKsKorea editors with AI assistance (ChatGPT).
All facts were verified against official government and institutional sources.
This is general information only, not legal advice.
Users must confirm the latest details through official government websites or authorized agencies.
For official inquiries, please contact the Korea Immigration Service through HiKorea (Call Center 1345, multilingual support available).

Summary at a Glance

For foreigners moving to Korea—whether for study, work, family, or long-term settlement—address registration is one of the most important legal requirements. Korea operates under a strict residential registration system that applies to both Koreans and foreigners.

If you are a foreign resident planning to stay more than 90 days, you must register your address within 14 days of moving. This rule connects directly to your visa status, Alien Registration Card (ARC), and essential services like banking, health insurance, and telecommunications. Without proper registration, you may face fines or complications in daily life.

This article explains in detail who must register, what documents are required, how to apply step by step, and what differences exist between Seoul and other regions. You will also find fictional case examples that illustrate common situations, a full FAQ section, and cultural tips to avoid mistakes.

By the end of this guide, you will not only understand the administrative process but also appreciate why this step is essential for smoother living in Korea. Address registration is not just bureaucracy—it is your bridge to social security, healthcare access, and recognition as a resident.

Eligibility & Conditions

Every foreigner who intends to live in Korea for more than 90 days must register their address with the local district (구청) or city office (시청). This obligation is part of the Immigration Control Act and Resident Registration Law for Foreigners.

Who Must Register

  1. Foreigners with Long-Term Visas
    • Examples: E-2 (English teacher), E-7 (skilled professional), D-2 (student), F-2 (residence), F-6 (marriage).
    • You must register your address within 14 days of moving into a new residence.
  2. Short-Term Visa Holders (C-3, Tourist Visas)
    • Tourists staying under 90 days do not need to register.
    • If you extend your stay beyond 90 days, registration becomes mandatory.
  3. People Changing Residences
    • Even if you already hold an ARC, you must update your registered address within 14 days of moving.
  4. Special Cases
    • International students moving from one dormitory to another.
    • F-6 marriage visa holders moving into spouse’s family residence.
    • Expats relocating from company housing to private apartments.

💡 Penalty Notice: Failure to register within 14 days can result in fines ranging from 100,000 KRW to 1,000,000 KRW, depending on the delay (Source: Ministry of Justice Korea, 2025).

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Confirm Your Local Jurisdiction

  • If you live in Seoul, find your gu-office (구청).
  • In other cities, go to the si/gun office (시청 or 군청) responsible for your neighborhood.
  • Many foreigners confuse immigration offices with district offices. Immigration handles visas, while the district office manages residential address reporting.

(Source: Korean Immigration Service, 2025)

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

Before heading to your local office, ensure you have the following:

  1. Alien Registration Card (ARC)
    • If this is your first registration, bring your passport.
  2. Rental Contract (임대차 계약서)
    • Either 전세계약서 (long-term lease) or 월세계약서 (monthly rent contract).
    • Must be under your name, or your spouse’s if you are married.
  3. Proof of Residence Confirmation
    • Some offices may require the landlord’s seal or stamp.
    • In dormitories, a certificate from the school is usually accepted.
  4. Application Form (거주지 변경 신고서)
    • Available onsite or downloadable from HiKorea portal.
  5. Additional Supporting Documents
    • Student ID card if you are a student.
    • Employment certificate if you are working.
    • Marriage certificate for F-6 visa holders.

💡 Pro Tip: Always bring extra copies of your documents. Some officials may request duplicates, and having them saves you time.

(Source: HiKorea Portal, 2025)

Step 3: Visit the District Office in Person

Once you have prepared all your documents, you must visit the relevant local office in person. Online submission is not allowed for foreign residents.

  • Look for the Foreigner Registration Section (외국인 등록 담당 부서).
  • Take a waiting ticket from the kiosk and wait for your number to be called.
  • Submit your documents to the immigration officer.
  • Some offices may call your landlord to confirm the housing contract. This is more common in smaller cities.

💡 Important Tip: Arrive early in the morning. Afternoons, especially after lunch, tend to have long waiting lines.

(Source: Korean Immigration Service, 2025)

Step 4: Pay the Administrative Fee (if applicable)

  • In most cases, changing your registered address is free of charge.
  • However, if the address change requires issuing a new Alien Registration Card (ARC), you must pay around 30,000 KRW.
  • Payment can usually be made at the office using cash or a card. Some offices require a revenue stamp, which can be purchased at the building.

(Source: Ministry of Justice Korea, 2025)

Step 5: Receive Confirmation

Once your documents are reviewed and accepted:

  • The official will update your ARC with your new address.
  • Depending on the office, either:
    • A sticker with your new address will be attached to the back of your ARC, OR
    • A new ARC card will be issued.

Processing times vary:

  • In Seoul, many cases are handled the same day.
  • In smaller regions, issuing a new ARC may take 2–3 weeks.

(Source: HiKorea Portal, 2025)

Step 6: Notify Related Institutions

After completing the official registration, you must also update your address with related organizations:

  1. Banks – Required for maintaining your account and receiving mail.
  2. National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) – Essential for billing, insurance certificates, and official letters.
  3. Telecom Companies – Mobile phone plans require an up-to-date ARC address.
  4. Employer or University – Must have your correct address on file for official records.

💡 Pro Tip: If you forget to update these institutions, you may experience issues such as undelivered mail, health insurance delays, or banking service restrictions.

(Source: National Health Insurance Service, 2025)

Regional Differences

The process is similar nationwide, but there are practical differences between Seoul and other regions.

In Seoul

  • Many district offices offer English-language support at foreign resident counters.
  • Some districts, such as Yongsan-gu and Gangnam-gu, provide online reservations to avoid long wait times.
  • Staff are generally accustomed to handling foreign residents’ cases quickly.

Outside Seoul

  • English support may be limited. Bringing a Korean-speaking friend is highly recommended.
  • Processing time may be longer, especially if landlord confirmation is required.
  • Smaller offices sometimes insist on additional supporting documents beyond what the law requires.

University Towns (e.g., Daegu, Gwangju, Busan)

  • Offices near major universities often provide brochures in English.
  • Staff may be familiar with student cases and therefore process them more smoothly.

💡 Tip: Always ask your school’s international office or HR department for guidance before visiting.

(Source: Korean Immigration Service, 2025)

Real-Life Case Examples

Tom (English Teacher, Seoul)

(The following is a fictionalized scenario created for educational purposes. It does not describe any real person, event, or case.)

Tom, an E-2 visa holder, moved into a studio apartment in Seoul. He registered his address within 10 days of moving. The process took only 30 minutes because the Yongsan-gu office had English-speaking staff and clear signage. He received a sticker on the back of his ARC the same day. This quick registration allowed him to open a bank account and sign up for internet service without delay.

Maria (Student, Busan)

(The following is a fictionalized scenario created for educational purposes. It does not describe any real person, event, or case.)

Maria, a D-2 student from Spain, moved into a new dormitory in Busan. She did not have her landlord’s information but presented a certificate from her university confirming her housing. The officer accepted it without issue. Maria emphasized how helpful her university’s international office was in preparing the paperwork. Her ARC was updated within one week, and she avoided fines.

Ali (Marriage Visa, Daegu)

(The following is a fictionalized scenario created for educational purposes. It does not describe any real person, event, or case.)

Ali, an F-6 visa holder, moved into his Korean spouse’s family home. He brought both his marriage certificate and his spouse’s family registry document. The district officer required a direct confirmation from his spouse, which they provided on the spot. The process was completed smoothly, and Ali felt reassured knowing that his residential status was properly recognized.

Sophia (Worker, Gyeonggi-do)

(The following is a fictionalized scenario created for educational purposes. It does not describe any real person, event, or case.)

Sophia, a software engineer on an E-7 visa, forgot to update her address when she moved apartments. After three months, she finally visited the office. She was fined 200,000 KRW for missing the 14-day deadline. Although it was stressful, she learned the importance of updating her address promptly to avoid further penalties.

Kenji (Student, Gwangju)

(The following is a fictionalized scenario created for educational purposes. It does not describe any real person, event, or case.)

Kenji, a Japanese exchange student, initially struggled with the Korean forms. Fortunately, his university’s international affairs office accompanied him to the district office. With their support, Kenji completed his ARC application and address registration on the same day. This experience highlighted how much easier the process is when supported by a local institution.

Fatima (Researcher, Incheon)

(The following is a fictionalized scenario created for educational purposes. It does not describe any real person, event, or case.)

Fatima, on a research visa, moved frequently between short-term apartments. The officer requested proof of her previous contracts to verify her residential history. Luckily, she had kept scanned copies of all her old housing contracts, which allowed her to complete the process without delays.

David (Entrepreneur, Seoul)

(The following is a fictionalized scenario created for educational purposes. It does not describe any real person, event, or case.)

David registered his company office address first while living in temporary housing. Later, when he moved into an official apartment, the officer required him to show his personal lease contract in addition to the business registration. This extra step delayed the process, but eventually, both his ARC and company documents reflected the correct address.

Elena (Intern, Jeju)

(The following is a fictionalized scenario created for educational purposes. It does not describe any real person, event, or case.)

Elena, a university intern, struggled in Jeju because the local office did not have English signs. A Korean coworker accompanied her and translated the officer’s requests. Despite the lack of English support, Elena successfully completed the process. She later emphasized that newcomers should not hesitate to ask colleagues or friends for help.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Who must register their address in Korea?

All foreigners staying in Korea for more than 90 days must register their address with the local district or city office. This includes students, workers, marriage visa holders, and long-term residents. Even if you already have an Alien Registration Card (ARC), any new residence must be updated within 14 days. This ensures that your visa status remains valid and that government institutions can contact you correctly. Failing to register may result in fines or difficulties in accessing services such as banking, health insurance, and mobile phone contracts.

2. What is the deadline for reporting a new address?

The deadline for reporting your new address is 14 days from the date you move into your new residence. If you fail to register within this time frame, you may face a fine ranging from 100,000 KRW to 1,000,000 KRW depending on how late the registration is. Repeated violations can also cause issues with your visa or residency status. It’s highly recommended to complete the registration process as soon as possible—ideally within the first week—to avoid fines or further complications. If you miss the deadline, you can contact your district office to discuss the fines and how to resolve the issue.

3. Where do I register my address?

You must visit the district office (구청) in Seoul or the city/county office (시청 or 군청) in other regions. Do not confuse this with immigration offices, which handle visas. The district or city office is the only place that officially updates your residence information. Some offices may require additional documents or verification, so it’s best to confirm the specific requirements on the official website or by calling ahead. Most district offices have English-speaking staff, especially in major areas like Seoul, but it may vary by region.

4. Do I always need my landlord’s confirmation?

Not always. Some offices may call your landlord to verify your lease, but many cases are processed without direct landlord involvement. If you live in a university dormitory, a housing certificate from your school is sufficient. For company housing, an employer’s certificate usually works. If you live in a private rental apartment, a signed rental contract will be required. However, some district offices may ask for additional documentation, such as proof of residence from your landlord or your employer, so it’s important to check ahead.

5. What if the rental contract is under my spouse’s name?

If your spouse is Korean or a foreigner with legal residence, you can still register your address. You must bring your spouse’s rental contract along with a marriage certificate. In some cases, officers may request your spouse to attend or provide a signed confirmation. If you are living with family members, you may also need to provide evidence that you are living at the same address, such as a family registration document or a signed affidavit. Always check with your district office beforehand to ensure you have all the necessary documentation.

6. Can I register my address online?

Currently, foreigners cannot complete address registration fully online. While some districts in Seoul offer online reservations for scheduling appointments, the final submission of documents must always be done in person. You can reserve a time slot online, which helps avoid long waiting times, especially during peak hours. However, when you visit the district office, you will still need to submit all required documents in person, including your rental contract, ARC, and passport. Be sure to confirm the required documents before your visit.

7. What happens if I miss the deadline?

If you fail to register within the 14-day period, you may face a fine ranging from 100,000 KRW to 1,000,000 KRW, depending on how late you are. Repeated violations can lead to issues with your visa status or future residency applications. To avoid penalties, it’s best to register your address as soon as possible. If you miss the deadline, you can still go to the district office and explain the situation. In some cases, they may offer a reduced fine or guidance on how to avoid further complications.

8. Is the process free?

Yes, the registration process itself is generally free of charge. However, if the address change requires the issuance of a new Alien Registration Card (ARC), there is typically a fee of around 30,000 KRW. This applies if you are changing your address to a new residence or if you need to get a new ARC card after losing your old one. The fee can usually be paid directly at the district office, and they may accept cash or card payments.

9. Do tourists need to register their address?

No, tourists or short-term visitors (on a C-3 visa, for example) are not required to register their address. However, if you are staying in Korea for more than 90 days or plan to extend your stay, you must register your address. If you are a tourist and decide to stay longer than expected, you must apply for an extension of your visa and register your new address within 14 days of your extension approval.

10. What about company dormitories?

If you live in a company dormitory, you generally do not need to show a rental contract. Instead, you will need a certificate from your employer confirming that you are staying in company-provided housing. This certificate will serve as proof of residence, and you can submit it instead of a lease agreement. If the company housing is not registered in your name, this certificate is a necessary document for the address registration process.

11. What if I live in a student dormitory?

If you live in a university dormitory, you are still required to register your address. You will need a certificate from the university or dormitory management confirming your residence. This certificate acts as proof of your address, and you can submit it in place of a rental contract. The process is generally straightforward for students, but be sure to check with your school’s international office for any additional documentation that might be required.

12. Will my visa be canceled if I don’t register?

Your visa will not be immediately canceled if you fail to register your address, but it could cause problems with your visa renewal process or status. If you repeatedly fail to register, it could raise concerns with immigration authorities about your compliance with Korean laws. It’s important to stay in good standing with immigration by completing the registration process on time to avoid any complications.

13. Do I get a new ARC every time I move?

Not necessarily. In most cases, you will receive a sticker with your new address on the back of your existing Alien Registration Card (ARC). However, if your ARC is old or damaged, you may need to apply for a new card. This decision depends on the district office’s policies. If you are receiving a new ARC, there will be a small fee of about 30,000 KRW.

14. Can I still use my ARC with the old address?

You can temporarily continue using your ARC with the old address, but it is important to update your address as soon as possible. Using an outdated ARC could cause problems when accessing government services, opening bank accounts, or signing contracts. It’s best to update your address promptly to avoid any issues.

15. Do I need an appointment?

In Seoul, some districts allow online reservations to schedule an appointment, which can help reduce waiting times. However, in most regions, it is first-come, first-served. You do not typically need an appointment, but if you want to avoid long waiting times, it’s a good idea to reserve a time slot online where available. Always check the district office’s website for appointment availability and procedure.

16. What if I move abroad temporarily?

If you are temporarily moving abroad, you do not need to update your address unless you are leaving permanently. If you are leaving and returning to a different address, you must register your new address within 14 days of your return to Korea. In such cases, it’s important to notify the district office of your new living situation.

17. How do I register my children?

Parents or legal guardians must register the address of their children under 17. This applies to both Korean and foreign children. If your child is living with you, their information must be updated and linked to your ARC. You will need to provide additional documentation, such as a birth certificate or a family registry.

18. Do I need to update my bank after changing my address?

Yes. You must update your address with your bank to ensure that important financial correspondence is sent to your correct address. Many banks require that your ARC address matches the one on file to ensure security and to send necessary documents, including tax information or official letters.

19. Can I receive multiple fines for not updating?

Yes, if you fail to update your address multiple times, you can receive multiple fines. Each violation can result in a separate fine. If you continue to neglect your address update, it could also impact your immigration record and may complicate visa renewals. To avoid multiple fines, it’s best to stay compliant and update your address on time.

20. Where can I check official information?

Always refer to the following:

  • Korean Immigration Service (출입국·외국인청)
  • Ministry of Justice Korea (법무부)
  • National Health Insurance Service
  • HiKorea Portal

These sources provide the most accurate and updated guidelines for foreign residents.

Cultural Tips + Common Mistakes

  1. Do not miss the 14-day deadline. This is the most common mistake among foreigners and leads to fines.
  2. Each district office has slightly different practices. Just because your friend’s process in Seoul was smooth does not mean the same will happen in Busan or Daegu.
  3. Avoid visiting during lunch hours. Many offices close their counters between 12 PM and 1 PM.
  4. Double-check your contract details. Even a small spelling error in your name or address can delay the process.
  5. Bring extra documents. Officers may unexpectedly ask for proof such as old rental contracts or employment certificates.
  6. Ask for help. If your Korean is limited, bring a friend or contact your university’s international office. This saves time and reduces stress.
  7. Stay calm and polite. Korean civil servants generally respond better when you show patience and respect.

One Thing Worth Sharing

When you register your address in Korea, it is more than a bureaucratic step—it is a recognition of your place in society. By completing this process, you gain access to health insurance, banking, housing security, and legal protection. Many foreigners describe the experience as their first step toward feeling like a true resident of Korea. Think of it as receiving the “key” that opens doors to a smoother, safer, and more stable life.

A Last Line to Keep in Mind

Address registration may seem like a formality, but it represents something larger: your bridge to stability in Korea. With this step completed, you can focus on living, studying, working, and building meaningful connections in your new home without unnecessary obstacles.

🖼 Image & Source Notice

All images are either original, free commercial-use (Unsplash, Pixabay, Pexels), or AI-generated.
AI-generated images are strictly for editorial purposes only, comply with free commercial-use licenses, and are not permitted for resale or standalone commercial use.
Images do not depict actual people, places, or events.

📝 Editorial & AI Assistance Notice

This article was researched by humans and drafted with AI assistance (ChatGPT).
All facts were verified with official sources listed in References.
This is general information only, not legal advice.
Users must confirm the latest details through official government websites or authorized agencies.
For official inquiries, please contact the Korea Immigration Service through HiKorea (Call Center 1345, multilingual support available).

📚 References (강화판)

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