Got Your ARC? 8 Things to Do Next in Busan
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Your ARC (Alien Registration Card, 외국인등록증) usually arrives a few weeks after your immigration visit. This card is the key that unlocks the rest of Korean life. Here is what to do, in order, once it is in your hand.
New here and still waiting for your ARC? Start with your first week in Busan.
1. Check your card
Make sure your name, date of birth and address are correct. Then save your expiry date in your phone calendar, with a reminder 4 months before. How to extend your visa →
2. Upgrade your bank account
New accounts start with low daily limits (한도제한계좌). Bring your ARC and certificate of enrollment to your branch and ask them to lift the limit. Haven't opened an account yet? Do it now. Bank account guide →
3. Switch to a monthly phone plan
With your ARC and a Korean bank account, you can get a monthly (postpaid) plan in your own name.
- Budget carriers (알뜰폰) start from about KRW 11,000 a month and use the same networks as the big three.
- A postpaid line in your own name makes identity verification (본인인증) work. Many Korean apps and websites need it.
4. Install the apps you'll use every day
Many Korean apps ask for identity verification by phone. That works best once you have your ARC and a postpaid line in your own name, so now is the time to set them all up.
| App | What it does | Why you need it |
|---|---|---|
| KakaoTalk 카카오톡 | Korea's main messaging app | Classmates, professors, your landlord and your part-time boss all use it |
| Naver Map 네이버 지도 | Maps and public transport | Real-time buses and subway routes. Google Maps does not give good directions in Korea |
| Papago 파파고 | Translator by Naver | Translates Korean text, photos of signs and menus, and conversations |
| Kakao T 카카오 T | Taxi app | Call a taxi with the destination already set, so you don't need to explain in Korean |
| Your bank app | Mobile banking | Transfers, balance checks and bills. Ask branch staff to help you set it up |
| Dongbaekjeon 동백전 | Busan's local payment and transport card | You need it for the Dongbaek Pass transport refund (step 5) |
| Coupang 쿠팡 | Online shopping | Fast delivery of almost anything, often the next day |
| HiKorea 하이코리아 | Immigration services | Book appointments, report address changes and apply for permissions |
How foreigners can sign up for each one: 5 apps you need in Korea.
5. Sign up for the Dongbaek Pass
With Busan's Dongbaek Pass, transport spending over KRW 45,000 a month is refunded (up to KRW 45,000). Foreign residents with an ARC can join.
- Get a Dongbaekjeon (동백전) transport card through the Dongbaekjeon app or at a Busan Bank branch.
- Register for the Dongbaek Pass in the app or at the branch.
6. Set up health insurance payments
D-2 degree students are enrolled in National Health Insurance (NHIS) from the date of foreigner registration. D-4 language students are enrolled after 6 months in Korea.
- The monthly payment is due by the 25th.
- Set up auto-debit from your bank account so you never miss it. Unpaid premiums can cause problems when you extend your visa.
7. Thinking about part-time work? Get permission first
8. Keep your address up to date
Moving house? Report your new address within 15 days. It is free and can be done online, at a local community center (주민센터) or at the immigration office.
Your after-ARC checklist
| Task | Where |
|---|---|
| Check card details, save the expiry date | Your phone calendar |
| Upgrade your bank account | Bank branch |
| Monthly phone plan | Phone shop or budget carrier website |
| Install everyday apps | App Store / Google Play |
| Dongbaek Pass | Dongbaekjeon app or Busan Bank |
| Health insurance auto-debit | Your bank or NHIS |
| Part-time work permission (if needed) | HiKorea or immigration office |
Want all of this in one checklist? Get the free Korea Arrival Checklist.
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