How to Get a Mobile ARC (모바일 외국인등록증) in Korea – Easy & Official!
- cigichannel
- Mar 30
- 2 min read
If you’re living in Korea as a foreign resident, you’re probably already familiar with the Alien Registration Card (ARC), known locally as 외국인등록증.
But did you know that you can now get a digital version of your ARC, directly on your smartphone?
Recently, the Korean government officially launched the Mobile Alien Registration Card (모바일 외국인등록증)—a digital ID that’s legally recognized and super convenient to use!
This post is a full guide based on the latest official information (as of March 2025), perfect for foreign nationals, including Indonesians, who are currently residing in Korea.
What is the Mobile ARC? 모바일 외국인등록증?
The Mobile ARC is the digital version of the Alien Registration Card.It is officially recognized by the Korean government and can be used for identification in various situations, such as:
Online registrations
Bank visits
Post office transactions
Government procedures
You can store it in your phone and show it whenever needed—no need to carry the physical card all the time!
Who is Eligible?
You’re eligible to apply for a Mobile ARC if:
You already have an ARC with an IC chip (the latest card version)
You are a long-term visa holder (e.g., F-2, F-6, D-2, D-4, etc.)
Your phone supports NFC
You can complete the Korean mobile phone verification process (휴대폰 인증)
How to Get the Mobile ARC in Korea
1. Make Sure You Have an IC ARC (Chip Version)
If your ARC is still the older version without a chip, you’ll need to replace it at your local immigration office first.
2. Download the Official Mobile ID App
Install the government-issued app 모바일 신분증 (Mobile ID App):
3. Verify Your Identity
Open the app
Tap your ARC to the back of your phone using NFC
Input your details (name, ARC number, etc.)
Complete mobile phone verification (휴대폰 인증)
4. Activate & Use
Once completed, your Mobile ARC will be activated and saved on the app.It can now be used as your official digital ID!
Important Notes
The Mobile ARC is legally valid and officially recognized in Korea
Some offices might still request to see the physical ARC for backup, so don’t throw it away!
Your phone must support NFC to read the chip
Update your digital ARC if your visa info or personal details change
Why It’s Worth It
✅ You don’t have to carry your ARC everywhere
✅ Fast and easy to use
✅ Great for everyday needs (banks, deliveries, government services)
✅ No risk of losing your card
Korea keeps getting more digital and convenient!With the Mobile ARC, living as a foreigner here becomes easier and more efficient.
If you haven’t upgraded your ARC to the IC version yet, now might be the perfect time to do it—then you can enjoy all the perks of a digital ID in your pocket!
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