Residence permit renewal in South Korea
Renewing a South Korean residence permit (Alien Registration Card) typically involves applying to the immigration office before the current permit expires. The process generally requires submitting an application form, passport, Alien Registration Card, and documents proving the reason for stay, often online or in person.
It is generally advisable to apply for renewal at least two to four months before the current residence permit's expiration date. This allows sufficient time to gather all necessary documents, secure an appointment at the immigration office (if required), and account for processing times, which can vary depending on the office and the type of visa.
Start 60 days ahead
This lead time accounts for appointment availability at immigration offices, time to prepare required documents, and the processing period for the application.
The process
- 1Check the validity period of the current Alien Registration Card and confirm the required documents and application method for the specific visa type through the Hi-Korea website or by contacting the immigration office.
- 2Prepare all necessary documents, which may include the passport, Alien Registration Card, application form, and supporting documents related to the reason for stay (e.g., employment contract, student enrollment, marriage certificate).
- 3Book an appointment online via the Hi-Korea website for the relevant immigration office, if applying in person.
- 4Submit the application and documents, either online through the Hi-Korea portal or in person at the scheduled immigration office appointment.
- 5Pay the application fee as required. This can often be done online or at the immigration office.
- 6Attend any necessary interviews or provide additional documents if requested by the immigration authorities.
- 7Collect the renewed Alien Registration Card once the application is approved, either in person or by mail, depending on the chosen method.
What to bring
- Passport
- Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증)
- Application form for extension of stay (체류기간 연장허가 신청서)
- Proof of financial ability (e.g., bank statements, employment contract, scholarship certificate) (details vary by visa type)
- Proof of residence (e.g., housing contract, confirmation of residence) (거주지 입증 서류)
- Supporting documents related to the purpose of stay (e.g., employment contract for work visa, enrollment certificate for student visa, marriage certificate for marriage migrant visa, business registration for investment visa) (specific to visa type)
- Color photo (3.5cm x 4.5cm, white background) (can be required for certain applications or if card needs re-issuance)
Who handles it
Immigration Office (출입국·외국인청)
The fee for an extension of stay is typically 60,000 KRW, but this can vary depending on the type of application and whether a new Alien Registration Card needs to be issued. Specific fees should be confirmed on the Hi-Korea website or directly with the immigration office.
What commonly goes wrong
- Applying after the expiration date can result in penalties, so it is crucial to submit the application before the current permit expires.
- Required documents vary significantly by visa type; applicants must ensure they have all documents pertinent to their specific visa category.
- Appointments at immigration offices can be booked up quickly, especially in major cities, making early booking essential if an in-person visit is required.
- Changes in personal circumstances (e.g., job change, change of educational institution, address change) may require reporting to immigration authorities within a specified timeframe, independent of the renewal process.
Sources
- Hi-Korea (Immigration & Foreigners Policy Headquarters) hikorea.go.kr
- Hi-Korea: Stay > Extension of Stay Permit > How to apply hikorea.go.kr
Other documents in South Korea
Residence permit renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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