FAQ
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When do I need to get my Alien Registration Card (ARC)?
You must get it within 90 days of your entry date. Failure to do so may result in a fine of up to 1,000,000 KRW.
How early should I apply for visa extension?
It is recommended to apply at least 2 months (60 days) before your visa expires. Overstaying your visa may result in deportation and re-entry ban.
What do I need to open a bank account in Korea?
Passport and ARC are required. Some banks also require proof of address (lease contract). KakaoBank allows foreigners with ARC to open an account online via app.
Where do I register my address after moving?
Visit your local community center (dong office) within 14 days of moving, or register online at gov.kr. Foreigners should also update their ARC address at the same time.
Can I work a part-time job with an E-7 visa?
E-7 visa only allows work in designated occupations. Working outside of those occupations (including part-time) is prohibited without an additional activity permit from immigration.
Can I get my national pension contributions refunded when I leave Korea?
Foreigners who paid into the national pension for less than 10 years can apply for a lump-sum refund. You can apply before or within 2 years after departing Korea.
Can 119 provide translation in emergencies?
Yes, 119 (fire/ambulance) provides immediate English interpretation. Chinese, Japanese, and Russian are also supported. After calling, state your location first, then say "English please."
What is the difference between jeonse and wolse?
Jeonse (전세) is a deposit-only system where you pay a large lump sum and no monthly rent. Wolse (월세) is a monthly rent system with a smaller deposit. Jeonse requires more upfront capital but has no monthly payment.
Can I work with a D-2 student visa?
D-2 visa holders can work part-time up to 20 hours per week with a work permit issued by their school. During vacation periods, there is no hour limit. Working without permission is grounds for visa cancellation.
When does national health insurance become mandatory for foreigners?
If you have an ARC and have been in Korea for 6 months, you must enroll. If you are employed, you are automatically enrolled as a workplace subscriber from day one.
Can foreigners register a business in Korea?
It depends on your visa type. Holders of F-2, F-4, F-5, F-6 visas can register a business freely. E-7 visa holders can only operate within their permitted occupation category.
Can I visit a hospital in Korea without speaking Korean?
Major hospitals in Seoul offer English interpretation services. In emergencies, call 119 and request an interpreter. Many hospitals have international patient centers with multilingual staff.
How do I sign up?
You can sign up using email or Google account. Click the "Sign Up" button in the top navigation bar or use the Google login button.
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Click the language selector in the top navigation bar to choose your preferred language. We currently support 8 languages.
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Click the "Write" button on the community page to create a post. Share your questions or experiences.
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Simply type your question in the chat box and press enter. The AI will answer any questions about Korean life.
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The AI chatbot supports all 8 languages that KoStart supports. Ask in your preferred language and receive answers in the same language.
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Yes, your chat history is automatically saved and can be viewed later.
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Can I delete my account?
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