# Foreigners in Korea Can Now Verify Identity by Phone for Online Banking

- URL: https://hallyu-brief.vercel.app/en/news/korea-phone-bank-verification-foreigners-guide-ca1aac
- Published: 2026-10-16T03:12:31.844Z
- Publisher: Hallyu Brief

> Registered foreigners in Korea can now use their residence card to verify identity on their phones for online banking, without visiting a branch.

## Key points

1. Residence card verification launched on Sept. 18 with the Financial Services Commission.
2. Hana and Toss adopted the scheme for foreign users.
3. Foreign-accessible bank branches fell to 24 as of June.

## Can foreigners open online bank accounts in Korea now?

Yes, registered foreigners holding a residence card can now complete identity verification on their mobile phones, much like Korean citizens. The Ministry of Justice launched the residence card verification service on Sept. 18, working with the Financial Services Commission and the Korea Financial Telecommunications and Clearings Institute.

## How does the verification work?

Users submit their residence card information to the bank through their phone. The ministry then confirms the card's authenticity with the bank in real time. According to The Korea Herald, Hana and Toss have adopted this scheme to allow more access for foreign users.

## Why it matters

Many Korean banks are closing branches as they push toward digitization. According to the Korea Federation of Banks, only 24 branches with English- and other-language-speaking tellers were available to foreign residents as of June, down from 33 in February last year and 38 in May 2021. Without reliable online access, foreign residents may find fewer banking options.

## Practical checklist

| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Confirm you are a registered foreigner with a valid residence card |
| 2 | Choose a bank app that supports the residence card verification scheme |
| 3 | Submit your card information through the app |
| 4 | Check customs rules if you plan to bring cash or valuables into Korea, according to the Korea Customs Service website |

For the latest requirements, check the bank's official website.

## For international fans

If you are relocating or moving savings, it helps to know that many foreign workers send money home because interest rates abroad can be higher. Keep your residence card details ready before you begin online sign-up.

## FAQ

### Can foreigners open an online bank account in Korea?

Registered foreigners with a residence card can now verify their identity on a mobile phone, according to the residence card verification service launched on Sept. 18.

### Which banks support the new verification?

The Korea Herald reports that Hana and Toss adopted the scheme. Check each bank's app for current availability.

### Do I still need to visit a branch?

The service is designed so registered foreigners can conduct transactions by phone without visiting a bank in person.

## Sources

- [www.customs.go.kr](https://www.customs.go.kr/english/main.do)
- [The Korea Herald](https://www.koreaherald.com/article/3228989)

_Written and translated with AI from official announcements and Korean media reports. If something is wrong, please let us know._