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According to the current Immigration Control Act, permanent resident cards must be mandatorily reissued (renewed) every 10 years for safe stay management and to prevent forgery or alteration.
1. Reissuance Application Targets and Timing
Mandatory Renewal (Expiration of Validity Period): Applicants must apply for reissuance within 2 years from the date 10 years have passed since the permanent resident card was issued or last reissued.
Other Reasons: In cases where the permanent resident card is lost, damaged and unusable, or personal details such as name, gender, date of birth, or nationality have changed, applications must be submitted immediately upon occurrence of the reason.
Caution (Fine Provisions): If the permanent resident card is not reissued within the mandatory renewal period, a fine of up to 2 million won may be imposed according to Article 100 of the Immigration Control Act.
2. Application Method and Processing Period
Application Location: Visit the immigration and foreign affairs office (branch) under the jurisdiction of the place of residence
Procedure: Make an appointment in advance through the HiKorea website, then visit the permanent residency dedicated counter (or appropriate counter) at the responsible office on the reserved date and time to submit the application.
Processing Period: Usually takes 2 to 3 weeks (Since the physical card takes time to manufacture and be issued, it is recommended to apply with sufficient time.)
3. Required Documents and Fee
- Depending on the situation, some additional documents may be required, but the basic required document list is as follows.
- Unified Application Form (available at immigration offices or downloadable from HiKorea)
- Original passport and copy
- Current permanent resident card (submit a loss statement if lost)
- One color passport-sized photo (3.5cm x 4.5cm, taken within the last 6 months)
- Proof of residence address (lease contract, accommodation confirmation letter, etc. that can prove the address)
- Fee: 35,000 won (※ It is recommended to prepare cash or confirm the on-site payment method, because the fee has been increased with the introduction of the IC chip type card.)
- Note: If you are abroad, you must re-enter Korea within 2 years from the date of departure (re-entry exemption period) to maintain your permanent residency. Without force majeure reasons (natural disasters, illness, etc.), if you exceed the period, your permanent residency rights may be forfeited, so you must manage your schedule well.
It is recommended to check the issuance date recorded on the permanent resident card in advance to avoid missing the renewal cycle.