Job Discussion Forums

[deepteeth]

So, after reading Norby's thread on teaching in Vietnam, I've set my sights there as my (ideal) next destination. I've been thinking about various locations in SEA for a while and seeing this detailed, personal situation made me realize it could be me.

But the fact is I'm in Russia now and will be until June at least. I'm a US citizen, and I've started the process of ordering a copy of my diploma and background check. The work that lies ahead of me is pretty clear as spelled out here:

Old but useful sticky: http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=31108
Newbie questions: http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=87159
More: http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=87074
CBC questions: http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=86840
More CBC: http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=86840
I could go on.

My question: who has gotten their visa ducks in a row from overseas before? And the real kicker: is it worth it?

For the last question, bear in mind that I don't hate my job, nor am I completely 100% focused on Vietnam. I want to go there, but I could stay here for another year, go back to the USA and get everything sorted from there. Regardless, I'll probably be getting my CELTA somewhere in SEA in July/Aug 2011.

Also, one bit I'm not quite sure on is if it might be easier to have some of the certifying done once arrived in Vietnam. There was a thread or two talking about teachers doing this when faced with visa renewal and updated requirements.

Thanks for your help.[/url]

[Bold As Love]

"My question: who has gotten their visa ducks in a row from overseas before? And the real kicker: is it worth it? "

Getting a Vietnam visa is no problem when outside the country. Just pop in to the local embassy/consulate and get a business visa. But I think you mean get documents (police report & diploma) to support work permit application.

I did it while working in Thailand, have not been back to USA since about 2007. But it really helped to have someone in USA doing the work on my behalf. I think very tough to do it remotely. I ordered a replacement diploma (notarized) from my university, and had my representative get a local police report for me, and then get it apostilled and translated.

It was worth the trouble and expense for me as I went to work at a mid-tier international school. I guess it is up to you, but depends on how long you expect to work in VN and what level of job you hope to get (language school, international school, etc.).