Still carrying your physical ARC everywhere?
You're not alone—but you don’t have to anymore.
It's been a while since Korea rolled out the mobile ARC for foreign residents, but a lot of people still haven’t made the switch. Maybe you didn’t know it was available, or maybe it just seemed like too much hassle. The truth? It’s quick, secure, and way more convenient than carrying that plastic card.
This guide will show you exactly how to get your mobile ARC, who’s eligible, and how to use it in real life—from banks to convenience stores and more. Ready to simplify your daily life in Korea? Let’s get started.
What is a Mobile Alien Registration Card (ARC) and Why Do You Need It?
If you're living in Korea as a foreign resident, chances are you're used to carrying your physical ARC everywhere. It’s required for things like banking, job contracts, or even renting a car. But let’s be real—it’s bulky, easy to forget, and stressful to lose.
That’s exactly why the mobile ARC exists. Introduced in early 2025, this digital version of your Alien Registration Card lives on your smartphone and works just like the physical one. It's legally recognized, secure, and designed to make your daily life easier.
And no, it’s not just a photo. The mobile ARC is encrypted using the chip inside your physical card, which means it’s safe, verified, and fully official. Think of it as your ARC—just smarter and always within reach.
Who is Eligible to Get a Mobile ARC?
Great news! Most long-term foreign residents in Korea are eligible to apply for a mobile ARC.
To get started, you just need to meet a couple of basic requirements:
You must have a valid physical Alien Registration Card (ARC). This means you can't get a mobile ARC if your physical card is expired or has been reported lost.
Your physical ARC must contain an NFC chip. This is crucial because the mobile ARC is created by scanning the chip in your physical card. Most ARCs issued recently already have this chip. If you're not sure, you can check with your local immigration office.
You don't need any special visa status; as long as you have a valid, chip-enabled ARC, you're good to go. This makes the mobile ARC an option for a wide range of people, from students to long-term employees and residents.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Your Mobile ARC
Ready to get your digital ID? The process is surprisingly simple. Just follow these steps.
What you need before you start
Make sure you have these two things ready:
Your physical Alien Registration Card (ARC).
A smartphone with NFC functionality.
Step 1: Visit an Immigration Office (출입국·외국인청)
To get started, you must visit your local Immigration Office (출입국·외국인청). This is different from a Community Service Center, so make sure you go to the correct location. You can find the nearest office by searching on a map app like Kakao Maps or Naver Maps.
When you get there, tell the staff you want to apply for the Mobile Alien Registration Card (모바일 외국인등록증). They will quickly verify your identity and give you a QR code to scan. This QR code contains a unique key that links your phone to your official identity.
💡Tip: You can find the contact information for your local Community Service Center on the official Government 24 website
Step 2: Download the Official "Mobile ID" App (모바일 신분증 앱)
You need to download the official "Mobile ID" App (모바일 신분증 앱) from the app store. This is the only app that can be used for the registration.
Once the app is installed, navigate to the "Mobile ID Card" section.
- Android (Google Play Store)
- iPhone (App Store) - iOS 16+ recommended.
Step 3: Complete the registration on your phone
Inside the app, you will be prompted to scan the QR code you received from the staff. After scanning, you'll need to hold your phone near your physical ARC to read the NFC chip. This is the final verification step.
The app will then generate your new mobile ARC. You can set up a password or biometric authentication (like a fingerprint or face scan) for added security. Once completed, your new digital ID is ready to use!
How to Use Your Mobile ARC in Real Life
So, you’ve got your new mobile ARC. That’s great! But the biggest question is, where can you actually use it? The answer is: almost everywhere. Your mobile ARC is legally equivalent to your physical card in most cases, making your day-to-day life much easier.
At banks and financial institutions
This is one of the biggest benefits. When opening a new bank account or handling other financial services, you can now use your mobile ARC for identity verification. It’s also handy for proving your identity when withdrawing money or making other transactions.
For public services and government offices
Need to visit a government office for a document or a service? Your mobile ARC can be used at various public institutions to verify your identity, just like a Korean citizen's mobile ID. This includes local community centers, health centers, and public libraries.
For daily life (convenience stores, transportation, etc.)
Your mobile ARC works as a valid ID at convenience stores or markets for age verification when buying certain products. While it’s not required for public transportation like buses or subways, it’s a quick and easy way to prove your identity for services like shared bikes or scooters that require ID verification.
Important Things to Remember & Key Differences
While the mobile ARC is incredibly convenient, it’s not a perfect replacement for your physical card just yet. Keep these points in mind.
Mobile ARC vs. Physical ARC: What’s the difference?
The main difference is in functionality. Your physical ARC has a chip that contains your full information, allowing it to be used for things like signing up for digital certificates (공인인증서) on a computer or at an ATM. Your mobile ARC, on the other hand, is designed for quick, on-the-go verification on your phone. Think of the mobile ARC as the "everyday" ID and the physical one as the "heavy-duty" ID you'll still need for more complex tasks.
Potential issues and how to solve them
The most common issue with a mobile ID is a dead phone battery. Always make sure your phone is charged, especially when you think you might need to use your ID. Network issues can also be a problem. Your mobile ARC requires a data connection to verify your identity. If you're in an area with bad reception, you might have trouble using it.
A few things you can't do with your mobile ARC yet
For now, you'll still need your physical ARC for a few key things:
International travel: You cannot use your mobile ARC at the airport for international flights.
Complex administrative tasks: For some very specific, high-security tasks at government offices or banks, they may still require the physical card for a direct chip read.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some of the most common questions foreigners have about the new mobile ARC.
Q1. Is the mobile ARC legally the same as the physical one?
Yes—it's fully recognized by law as an official form of ID, just like your physical ARC. The system has been in place since early 2025, and it's already widely accepted at banks, public offices, and more.
Q2. What if I lose my phone?
If your phone is lost or stolen, you can get the mobile ARC reissued through the official application process. Since the mobile ARC is protected by your password or biometric data, it is more secure than a physical card.
Q3. Can I use the mobile ARC at airports for domestic flights?
While the mobile ARC has legal equivalence to the physical card, its acceptance at all domestic airports is currently not officially confirmed. It is recommended to contact the airline or airport directly to verify. We will update this guide as more information becomes available.
Q4. Is there a fee to get the mobile ARC?
No, the application and issuance of the mobile ARC are free of charge. You only need to pay if you are getting a new physical card.
Q5. Can I get a mobile ARC if I'm a short-term visitor?
No, the mobile ARC is only available for long-term residents who have a valid physical Alien Registration Card. Short-term visitors with tourist visas are not eligible.
Conclusion: Simplify Your Life, One Tap at a Time
The introduction of the mobile Alien Registration Card is a fantastic step forward for foreigners living in Korea. No more frantic searches for your wallet or the constant worry of losing your physical ID.
This new digital ID simplifies your life, makes daily tasks more convenient, and provides a modern, secure way to verify your identity. While you'll still need to keep your physical card safe for a few specific situations, the mobile ARC is a game-changer that will make living here just a little bit easier.
So, what are you waiting for? Head to your local Immigration Office and take the first step toward a more convenient life in Korea!
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