Losing your Alien Registration Card (ARC) in Korea can be stressful, especially if you're planning international travel. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do if you find yourself in this situation:

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
   First, confirm whether your ARC is truly lost or misplaced. Check all possible places, including your wallet, bag, or previous locations you visited.

2. Report the Loss
   If your ARC is lost, immediately report it to your local immigration office or a community center. Reporting is crucial to avoid misuse of your card.

3. Obtain a Foreigner Residence Certificate
   Visit your local community center and apply for a Foreigner Residence Certificate. This certificate can temporarily replace your ARC for identification and travel purposes. The cost is 2,000 KRW.

4. Apply for an ARC Reissue
   If your ARC is permanently lost, you must apply for a reissue. Visit the immigration office with your passport and other required documents. The reissue fee is 35,000 KRW.

5. Traveling Without an ARC
   If you have an upcoming flight, the Foreigner Residence Certificate can be used as a substitute for your ARC. Confirm with immigration authorities to ensure a smooth departure and re-entry process.

6. What to Do If You Find Your Wallet/ARC
   If you find your lost ARC or wallet (as I luckily did), inform the immigration office and cancel the reissue process if it hasn’t been completed. Always double-check your belongings to prevent future mishaps.

7. Prevent Future Losses

   • Keep your ARC in a secure and consistent place, such as a dedicated cardholder.
   • Consider taking photos of important documents for backup.

By following these steps, you can manage the situation effectively and ensure that your travel plans proceed without complications.

See Related Article: Have you lost something in Korea? What should you do?