Is there a strict application deadline?

There is no statutory cutoff, but the voucher is only valid until the child turns 1. Apply within 60 days of birth to get the full usable period.

How does it work for twins?

The voucher is issued per child. For twins, each child receives a separate grant at the applicable rate (1st child ₩2M, 2nd child ₩3M). Confirm the exact payment method with the issuing institution.

Can I withdraw it as cash?

No — the voucher is issued as points on the National Happy Card only. Cash withdrawal is not available.

Where can I spend it?

Only at MOHW-designated merchant categories (baby goods, medical care, postpartum centers, etc.). Check the National Happy Card website for the full approved merchant list.

Newborn Cash Voucher (First Meeting Voucher)

A government-issued voucher paid per newborn — here's what you get, who qualifies, and how to apply.

Who Qualifies

Parents (or primary caregivers) of children born on or after January 1, 2022 are eligible. There is no income limit. Foreign nationals may qualify if the child meets domestic birth and registration requirements — confirm eligibility at Government 24 or Bokjiro.

Benefit Amount

The voucher is loaded onto a National Happy Card (국민행복카드) as points. First children receive ₩2M, second and subsequent children receive ₩3M, paid as a one-time grant.

1st child

₩2,000,000

2nd child or more

₩3,000,000

Local governments (시·군·구) may offer additional top-up payments. Check your local government website for details.

How to Apply

Apply within 60 days of birth to maximize your usable period. Late applications are accepted, but the usable window (until the child turns 1) shortens accordingly.

1Online via Government 24 (www.gov.kr) — fastest option
2Online via Bokjiro (www.bokjiro.go.kr)
3In person at your local community center (읍·면·동 주민센터)
4At a National Happy Card-issuing bank branch or app (Woori, KB, Shinhan, Hana, Nonghyup, Samsung Card, etc.)

Typically required: photo ID, birth certificate or birth registration confirmation. Confirm exact documents with the applying institution.

Where and When to Use It

The voucher is usable at merchants designated by the Ministry of Health and Welfare — including baby goods stores, medical facilities, and postpartum care centers. General restaurants and supermarkets are not eligible. Check the National Happy Card website for the current merchant list.

Use by: Before the child's 1st birthday (within 12 months of birth)

Local Government Top-Ups

Many local governments in Seoul, Gyeonggi, and other regions offer additional grants on top of the national voucher. Amounts and conditions vary by district. Contact your local community center or check your district government website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a strict application deadline?: There is no statutory cutoff, but the voucher is only valid until the child turns 1. Apply within 60 days of birth to get the full usable period.
Can foreign-national parents apply?: Foreign parents may qualify if the child meets domestic birth and registration requirements. Confirm eligibility at Bokjiro or your local community center.
How does it work for twins?: The voucher is issued per child. For twins, each child receives a separate grant at the applicable rate (1st child ₩2M, 2nd child ₩3M). Confirm the exact payment method with the issuing institution.
Can I withdraw it as cash?: No — the voucher is issued as points on the National Happy Card only. Cash withdrawal is not available.
Where can I spend it?: Only at MOHW-designated merchant categories (baby goods, medical care, postpartum centers, etc.). Check the National Happy Card website for the full approved merchant list.

Related Guides

Official Sources

Always verify with the official sources below