📱 Can I open a bank account without a physical ID?

To start studying abroad, you definitely need a Korean bank account for paying rent or receiving part-time wages.

There’s exciting news for those who found it bothersome to carry their physical ID every day!

Now, with just your smartphone, you can easily and conveniently open a bank account using a mobile Alien Registration Card. ✨

💳 What is a mobile Alien Registration Card?

For those who worried about losing their plastic card, you can relax now! A mobile ID with the same legal validity as the physical one is now available.

1. Mobile issuance has been available since January 10, 2025.

2. From March 21, 2025, you can also use it as an ID verification method at banks.

3. Not only the Alien Registration Card but also the Residence Card and Domestic Residence Report Card for Overseas Koreans are included.

👉 Put your ID in your smartphone and go out light!

🏦 Which banks can you use it at?

Do you need to open an account right away but don't know which bank to visit? Here is a thorough overview of the initial banks supporting it as of March 21, 2025!

1. Registered foreigners aged 14 or older with a smartphone in their name are eligible.

2. In-branch (face-to-face) is first being offered by Shinhan, Hana, iM Bank, Busan, Jeonbuk, and Jeju banks.

3. Bank apps (non-face-to-face) first started with Shinhan and Jeonbuk banks.

4. For the Woori WON Global app, the age requirement may differ by bank, such as 17 or older.

👉 Be sure to check the support schedule for your main bank in advance!

📲 How do you submit it?

Don’t worry about feeling awkward in front of the bank staff since it’s your first time! Both in-person and non-face-to-face formats are very simple for authentication!

1. At the branch, scan the QR code shown by the staff with your mobile ID app.

2. On the bank app, tap the 'Mobile Alien Registration Card' button to automatically launch the app.

3. Submitting is complete by just entering face authentication and your password!

👉 Finish neatly with a single scan, no complicated copies needed!

📝 Don’t forget the additional required documents!

You might expect an account to be opened with just your ID, but it can be disappointing if documents are missing😢. The mobile ID is for identification, so be sure to also prepare proof of financial transactions!

1. For part-time wage accounts, a copy of the labor contract or the employer's business registration certificate is needed.

2. For students, a certificate of enrollment may be required.

3. Some banks may request proof of Korean address or your passport as well.

4. If documents are lacking, the account may be a limited account with transfer restrictions.

👉 To avoid an extra trip, always check with the bank before visiting!

In Closing

✔️ The mobile Alien Registration Card can be used at banks for identity verification from March 21, 2025.

✔️ Check in advance whether banks like Shinhan and Jeonbuk offer in-person or non-face-to-face support.

✔️ You must also prepare supporting documents for financial transactions, like labor contracts or enrollment certificates.

We hope your banking in Korea becomes much lighter and more convenient! Good luck adapting to life in Korea! 💖

💡 VIVISA will help you.

VIVISA organizes the following information in an easy-to-understand way.

• Visa information for foreigners and international students

• Part-time & labor regulations

• Essential administrative guide for living in Korea

For studying and working part-time in Korea, start comfortably and worry-free with VIVISA! ✨