Explore Korea: places to visit and Korean to use
Before your first immigration appointment
A reservation is only one part of the visit. The right office, the right service and a complete folder matter just as much.
By Seemile · Sources checked
Book the correct service
- Use the official HiKorea site rather than a link sent by an unknown agent.
- Check the office’s jurisdiction against your residence address.
- Save the appointment confirmation, including the service, date and time.
Ask before the visit
- Call 1345, the immigration contact centre, with your status code and the name of the application ready.
- Ask whether originals, copies, translations or recently issued certificates are needed.
- Confirm the current fee and accepted payment method rather than relying on an old blog post.
Make the visit easier
- Arrange the folder in checklist order and bring a pen.
- Plan the route to the actual office building, not just the nearest subway station.
- If you cannot attend, use the official cancellation or change process so the slot can be released.
A little Korean goes a long way
- 방문 예약을 했어요. — I have an appointment.
- 원본과 사본이 모두 필요한가요? — Do I need both the original and a copy?
Official information
- My Seoul+ · Change of residence status — Seoul Metropolitan Government
- HiKorea · Immigration services — Ministry of Justice
Keep going
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Before you fly: check your entry purpose
A holiday, a degree course and a paid job need different checks. Start with what you will actually do in Korea, rather than the name of a visa you have heard about.
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Getting your residence card organised
For many long-term arrivals, foreigner registration is the next administrative task after finding an address. Book early enough to leave room for missing documents.
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Extending your stay or changing its purpose
An extension gives you more time under a status; a change of status concerns a different purpose. Explain your next activity clearly before choosing an application.
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Moved home? Update your registered address
Changing the address on a delivery app does not update your immigration record. Make official address reporting an early part of your moving checklist.