Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Whitey]

Do I need my ARC to open a bank account? Can I open an account with just my passport and e2 visa?

I really don't feel like rushing into Busan just to wait and wait and then have to go back again, but my institute needs me to open an account so they can pay me on my payday.

[sadsac]

At any KB Bank, just rock on in there with your passport and fill out the forms. If they ask for your ARC, tell them you are still waiting for it. Never had a problem opening an account with them, even though I never had an ARC.

[kprrok]

I've had to show my ARC everytime I go to my Kookmin (KB). They don't ever need my passport. You have to have your ARC to prove that you're legal to be here. They don't want to open an account for tourists, so you have to have a VISA.

Of course, that is how I understand it is supposed to be. Doesn't mean that they all do it that way.

KPRROK

[Whitey]

thanks and no thanks, dont really want to have to spend a long time just heading into Pusan just to apply for the card then come back and have to go again, would rather wait till I have a good reason to head down to Pusan. I might just try the bank on my own since it is hard to get an answer and then I know......

And by the way I do have the E-2 visa, just got it last week.

[kangnamdragon]

No, you do not need an ARC. Any bank that says otherwise is misinformed. Go to another bank. Why would the bank not want your money? Of course a tourist can open an account. People have accounts all over the world.

[PEIGUY]

exactly i have an account at Worri Bank and FineBank and never had to show my ARC.. just a passport is fine..

[Whitey]

I went into Woori Bank this morning and in less than 20 minutes I left with a working ATM card and passbook. I don't know how much was needed to open the account, but I just gave them 10,000 won and they were happy. They asked for my ARC, but I told them I didn't have one yet. They were fine with that.