Your ID in Korea changes depending on your visa type - did you know that?

If you stay in Korea for more than 90 days, you must obtain a residence card. However, not all foreigners receive the same type of card.

Check the differences between the three types of ID cards: Residence Card, Permanent Residence Card, and Overseas Korean Residence Card.

📋 Comparison Table

 🔵 Residence Card (외국인등록증)

This is the ID card issued to most foreigners staying long-term in Korea.

It applies to various statuses such as students (D visa), workers (E visa), and marriage migrants (F-6).

  • All foreigners except F-5 (permanent residents) and F-4 (overseas Koreans)
  • Must apply at the immigration office within 90 days from entry; validity depends on visa status

🟢 Permanent Residence Card (영주증)

F-5 permanent residents are issued a separate permanent residence card instead of a general residence card.

  • Foreigners with F-5 visa
  • Issued immediately upon obtaining permanent residency; must be reissued every 10 years

 🟡 Overseas Korean Residence Card (국내거소신고증)

Issued to overseas Koreans who previously held Korean nationality but acquired foreign citizenship, instead of a residence card.

  • Overseas Koreans with F-4 visa
  • Must apply within 90 days after entry; valid for 3 years (no limit on extensions)

✅ Same legal function as identification

Although the types differ, all cards can be used equally for most administrative and financial procedures in Korea.

  • Opening bank accounts and financial transactions
  • Mobile phone registration
  • Health insurance enrollment
  • Issuance and reissuance of driver’s licenses

❓FAQ

Q. Can the Overseas Korean Residence Card be used like a Residence Card?

Yes, it can be used as a substitute in administrative procedures and transactions under the law.

Q. Does the Permanent Residence Card need renewal?

Yes. The visa itself remains valid, but failure to renew the card may cause disadvantages, so the expiration date must be checked.

Q. Do I need a new card if my visa changes?

Yes. When your visa changes, you must reissue the appropriate card. For example, changing from a student visa (D-2) to a work visa (E-7) requires a new residence card, and changing to permanent residency (F-5) requires returning the old card and receiving a permanent residence card.