How to Get a Credit Card in Korea Without an Alien Registration Card (ARC) – 2025 Guide!

How to Get a Credit Card in Korea Without an Alien Registration Card (ARC) – 2025 Guide!

💳 The Ultimate Guide to Getting a Credit Card in Korea as a Foreigner (No ARC Required!)

So, you’re an expat in Korea and want a credit card, but you don’t have an Alien Registration Card (ARC)?

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If you've already tried, you probably faced rejection from major banks like KEB Hana, Shinhan, or KB Kookmin Bank.

But here’s the good news—it IS possible to get a credit card in Korea without an ARC!

 

👉 Which banks allow foreigners to get a credit card?

👉 What are the best alternatives to traditional credit cards in Korea?

👉 How to boost your chances of approval as a foreigner?

 

Keep reading for insider tips on how to get approved, avoid rejections, and use a credit card in Korea without the typical headaches!

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🚨 Can Foreigners Get a Credit Card in Korea Without an ARC?

✅ Yes, But It’s Difficult (Here’s Why)

Most Korean banks require an Alien Registration Card (ARC) to issue a credit card. Why? Because banks use the ARC number to verify identity and creditworthiness. Without it, getting a traditional credit card is difficult but not impossible.

 

📌 The Problem:

• Many banks don’t know their own policies and might reject you even when you qualify.
• Some banks require you to have lived in Korea for at least 6 months.
• If you don’t have a Korean bank account or proof of income, your chances drop significantly.

But don’t worry—there are ways around this!

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🏆 Best Credit Card Options for Foreigners Without an ARC

If you don’t have an ARC, you’ll need to be strategic. Here are your best options:

1️⃣ Prepaid & Secured Credit Cards (Best for No ARC)

✅ Kakao Bank Prepaid Card – Easy to get, works like a credit card but requires pre-loading money.

✅ Toss Bank Check Card – Functions like a debit card but can be used for online purchases & subscriptions.

✅ Shinhan Global Check Card – No ARC needed, allows international payments.

✅ NH Nonghyup Prepaid Card – Great for foreign students & tourists.

 

🚨 Why Choose Prepaid/Secured Cards?

• You don’t need an ARC to apply.
• Works just like a credit card for online payments, Netflix, Spotify, and more.
• Can be used internationally & in Korea.

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2️⃣ International Credit Cards (Issued from Your Home Country)

✅ Wise Multi-Currency Card – Works like a debit/credit hybrid, best for travelers.

✅ Revolut Virtual Card – Great for making international purchases.

✅ Your Home Country’s Credit Card – If possible, apply for a card in your home country and use it in Korea.

 

📌 Pro Tip: If you plan to live in Korea long-term, applying for an international credit card before moving is a smart choice.

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3️⃣ Korean Bank Cards That Sometimes Approve Without an ARC

While rare, some banks might approve a credit card if you meet these conditions:

✅ KEB Hana Bank – Requires a Korean bank account & proof of income.

✅ Shinhan Bank – May approve if you have a long-term visa (D-8, F-4, etc.).

✅ Samsung Card – More flexible for foreigners with Korean employment.

 

📌 Pro Tip: If you have a Korean employer, ask them to help you get a corporate credit card! Some companies have agreements with banks to issue cards for foreign employees.

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🔄 Alternative Ways to Pay Without a Credit Card

If you can’t get a credit card, here are alternative payment methods you can use in Korea:

 

💳 Korean Debit Cards – Works just like a credit card, but you need a Korean bank account.

📲 KakaoPay / Naver Pay – Mobile payment apps that link to your bank account.

🌍 PayPal – Accepted by some Korean online stores.

💰 Virtual Cards (Wise, Revolut, Payoneer) – Great for online purchases.

 

📌 Pro Tip: Most Korean stores accept Visa, Mastercard, and mobile payments like KakaoPay. Credit cards are not always necessary for daily life.

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📑 How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Credit Card in Korea

Even if you don’t have an ARC, you can improve your chances of approval by:

✅ Opening a Korean Bank Account – Having a transaction history helps banks trust you.

✅ Using a Korean Phone Number – Banks prefer applicants with local contact info.

✅ Showing Proof of Income – Some banks accept work contracts or pay stubs.

✅ Applying at Multiple Banks – Some banks have different policies for foreigners.

✅ Having a Korean Guarantor – A Korean friend or employer can co-sign for you.

 

📌 Pro Tip: Visit multiple bank branches! Some locations have different policies or more foreigner-friendly staff.

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🚀 Final Thoughts: How to Get a Credit Card in Korea Without an ARC

📌 Best no-ARC option? Get a Kakao Bank Prepaid Card or Toss Check Card.

📌 Best international option? Use a Wise or Revolut card.

📌 Want a real Korean credit card? Try KEB Hana or Shinhan Bank (with proof of income).

📌 No credit card? No problem! Use KakaoPay, Naver Pay, or a debit card.

 

🚀 Now you’re ready to manage your finances in Korea! If this guide helped, share it with other expats & travelers! 🎉

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