National Pension Service (NPS)

National Pension Service (NPS)

The National Pension Service (NPS) is Korea’s public pension system that provides retirement, disability and survivor benefits. Foreign residents who earn income in Korea are usually required to participate. Our experts guide you through enrollment, contributions and benefit claims.

Who this is for

This service is ideal for:

  • Foreign employees working in Korea on long‑term assignments
  • Entrepreneurs and investors who pay themselves a salary
  • Spouses who earn income from employment in Korea
  • Self-employed foreigners subject to mandatory pension contributions

What we do

  • Determine whether you are required or eligible to enroll in the NPS
  • Explain contribution rates and benefit entitlements based on your situation
  • Prepare and translate application forms and supporting documents
  • Liaise with your employer or payroll provider on deductions and remittances
  • Register you with the NPS and obtain your membership certificate
  • Monitor contributions and provide statements upon request
  • Assist with lump‑sum refunds when you leave Korea
  • Advise on bilateral social security agreements with your home country

Our process

  1. Consultation: Review your visa status, employment type and exemption possibilities.
  2. Document collection: Gather identification, employment contracts and bank details.
  3. Application submission: Complete and submit the NPS enrollment application.
  4. Contribution registration: Coordinate with employer payroll to ensure regular contributions.
  5. Issuance of certificate: Receive your NPS membership certificate and ID number.
  6. After-service: Ongoing monitoring of contributions, advice on refunds and pension claims.

Typical documents

  • Passport and Alien Registration Card (ARC)
  • Employment contract or self‑employment registration
  • Proof of income or salary details
  • Proof of address in Korea
  • Bank account information for contributions and refunds
  • Completed NPS application forms

Timeline & fees

Enrollment typically takes 2–3 weeks after submission. Contributions are generally set at around 9% of your monthly salary (split between employer and employee) but may vary. Our service fee starts from [PLACEHOLDER], with a detailed estimate provided upon review of your case.

Frequently asked questions

Do foreigners have to join the NPS?

Most foreigners who work in Korea and earn income are required to join, unless their home country has a bilateral social security agreement exempting them.

Can I get my contributions back?

Depending on your nationality and length of contribution, you may be eligible for a lump‑sum refund when you leave Korea. We assist with the refund application.

How much will I contribute?

The standard contribution rate is around 9% of your monthly salary, typically shared between you and your employer.

What benefits does the NPS provide?

The NPS provides retirement pensions, disability pensions and survivors’ pensions based on your contribution period and salary history.

Can I continue contributions after leaving Korea?

Generally, contributions stop when you leave Korea, but we can advise on voluntary contributions or agreement-based options depending on your nationality.

Secure your future today

Let us handle the paperwork and compliance so you can focus on your career. Contact us to start your NPS enrollment.

Information may vary by case; we confirm requirements after initial review.