What do foreigners need to open a bank account?

Foreigners can also open an account at a Korean bank. However, whether you can open one may differ depending on the bank and your visa status (체류자격).¹

What to prepare

• ID: passport, Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증), etc.¹
• Money for the first deposit, and a personal seal (도장) if needed¹
• Some banks ask for both your passport and your Alien Registration Card.³

Steps to open an account at the counter

1. Get a number ticket at the bank.
2. Go to the counter when your number is called.
3. Say that you need to open an account. You can also apply for a debit card at the same time.
4. Fill out and submit the documents following the staff's guidance.¹

Bank counters are open on weekdays from 09:00 to 16:00. On weekends and public holidays, most counter services are not available.¹

Opening an account with an app (non-face-to-face)

• Internet-only banks and some other banks let you open an account with an app.¹
• You may need your Alien Registration Card and a mobile phone in your own name.¹
• Thanks to the Alien Registration Card authenticity verification service, registered foreigners can now do non-face-to-face financial transactions.⁴

Mobile Alien Registration Card

• Registered foreigners aged 14 or older who have a smartphone in their own name can get a Mobile Alien Registration Card.²
• From March 21, 2025, you can use it to open an account at the counters of some banks (Shinhan, Hana, iM Bank, Busan, Jeonbuk, Jeju).²

⚠️ Things to be careful about

• You can get a debit card linked to your account. For a credit card, you must meet the card company's standards, and your application may be rejected after screening.³
• The required documents may be different for each bank. Be sure to check with the bank before you visit.
• For final confirmation, use HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the Korea Immigration Contact Center (외국인종합안내센터) at 1345.