Why foreign contracts for non-resident offices get rejected
Contracts get rejected not because of law, but because of the operator's internal KYC check.
KYC checks the customer's identity and business purpose before signing. There's no law banning foreign contracts, but operators can refuse at their discretion.
Many operators hesitate because the person has no ARC or is on a short-stay visa; they think it's hard to contact in disputes. It's not your fault.
No legal ban — operators can refuse.
Having an ARC is the biggest factor for contract possibility.
Some operators allow contracts without a guarantor if you have F-2 or F-4 visa.
Foreign contract availability — compare 4 operators.
Tap to compare each operator's foreign contract conditions.
List of documents needed for foreign contracts
Each operator may require different docs. Below is a general guide. Final check with sales team is required.
| Document type | Required/Optional | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Passport copy | Required | Common to all operators |
| ARC copy | Required | Without it, contract almost impossible. Most important. |
| Korean phone number | Required | Korean mobile number. Some operators don't accept foreign numbers. |
| Stay status proof | Required | Visa type proof. ARC back can sometimes replace. |
| Business purpose statement | Required | Specify business registration purpose and industry. |
| Korean guarantor documents | Optional (depends on visa) | Usually not needed with F-2·F-4 visa. May be required otherwise. |
| Financial proof documents | Optional (if operator asks) | Bank balance certificate, etc. Some operators ask extra. |
Can I contract a non-resident office?
Answer 3 questions to know if you can contract.
Difficulty of non-resident office contracts by visa type
Contract difficulty varies by visa. F-2 (resident) and F-4 (overseas Korean) are the easiest.
F-2·F-4 visas have almost no work restrictions, so KYC is easy. E-7 is medium; some operators accept but need pre-check.
D-2 (student) and E-9 (non-special work) visas need caution. They may legally limit business activity. Check visa conditions before contract.
D-2 (student) visa: business activities beyond part-time work are generally not allowed.
E-9 (non-special work) visa: limited job categories; must review visa before business registration.
Visa change counseling: Immigration Policy Headquarters 1345 (free, Korean/English/Chinese)
Tip: If you can change visa, switch to F-2 or F-4 first, then contract—it’s much easier.
Things to prepare before contacting sales team
Preparing 5 items before calling sales boosts success. Many foreigners waste time here.
Check my visa type
Look at the front of ARC to see visa type (stay status). First check if it's F-2, F-4, or E-7. The operator you contact depends on visa.
Prepare ARC and passport copies
Scan or photo the front/back of ARC and passport info page. Often you need to email them.
Organize business type and purpose
Summarize your business in one or two sentences. Include industry name (e.g., IT consulting, online shop) and main activities for sales team.
Check guarantor availability
See if any Korean acquaintance can be a guarantor. With F-2·F-4 visa you can proceed without one.
Contact sales team directly
First apply online at FastFive FiveSpot (fastfive.co.kr/fivespot). If rejected, contact WeWork, Lehobot, SparkPlus sales in order. Tip: Mention visa type and ARC status right away for quick help.