Korean Job Discussion Forums

[chaz47]

Hey, I'm a veteran teacher on vacation. I have three years of experience in country and am home (finally) gathering documents for my next visa (at the same school). My department assistant has just informed that immi told her that I need to visit the Korean consulate in Chicago. She didn't mention why.

Shouldn't I be free of the interview requirement? Why else would I have to go to the consulate while I'm home on vacation?

This seems a bit off, doesn't it?

[Juregen]

[Ut videam]

[cruisemonkey]

Why do you need a new visa if you're on vacation and renewing at the same school?

[Bibbitybop]

Call 1345 and ask the source.

[chaz47]

I extended my visa from the previous job and transferred. I was too short to fly home if I was going to get my present university job. Now, they want me to continue next year, I'm currently midway through my first year at this university.

So far as I know I've never overstayed or had any problems. I did do a runner like 4 or 5 years ago. But since then I've been gainfully employed with no blackmarks.

So, what sort of policy changes have occurred, does this mean everybody has to fly home for this nonsense again. If so, I dunno. Ridiculous shite all over again. I was under the impression that senior, veteran teachers who have labored in the trenches with no problems before this recent crap-storm were exempt from the interview.

If I do have to do an interview I think I'd almost rather do it at the Korean consulate in Japan because it would actually be easier and cheaper than going to Chicago. Plus, I've heard the Chicago consulate are pretty uncool.

[chaz47]

OK, please excuse my slacker English. I am on vacation for the first time in a long time. I am still under contract and have been offered renewal at the same university next year. I will be returning to Korea to finish this semester. I do however need to get a new visa.

I, as a veteran teacher, shouldn't be required to do a consular interview... right?

[ttompatz]

OK.. you are really unclear and rambling...

You are currently on an E2 visa?
When did/does the visa expire?
Do you still have your ARC?
Do you still have re-entry privilages?
Are you extending your status of sojourn or getting a new visa?

[bobbybigfoot]

[chaz47]

Sorry for rambling. I hope this makes more sense.

[ttompatz]

[quote="chaz47"]Sorry for rambling. I hope this makes more sense.

[chaz47]

No, my multiple entry status didn't carry over. I had to get a stamp, etc. This is when the immigration official decided it was a good idea to write "used" on my visa.

[Lunar Groove Gardener]

I was told to get an interview in Chicago also, even though I've worked in Korea for several years.

Later the interview was waived due to a large rush of visa applicants.

It's pretty clear that if they feel like it then they request the interview at their whim.

The university staff will not be able to decipher or mediate the fine points of visa regulatioins as such, they are told one thing, then whatever the specific counselate that you deal with wants to do is the actual fact.

I have heard that the interview is a small thing.

It'd be prudent to make an appointment now, as they sometimes only give them on two or three days a week and may have a very full schedule.

This will at least allow you to make plans to which you can adapt your own schedule.

If you haven't gotten your criminal record check in order then DO IT.
It will take nearly two weeks with the apostille.

You can rely on that measure being required for the present future of ALL visa holders.

[ttompatz]