Korean Job Discussion Forums

beatbox_bandit · Joined: 27 May 2009 Location: Washington State

Hey, I was just wondering if it was possible for me to get an E2 visa if I have been treated for depression? Right now I am not taking any medication, nor am I seeing a therapist but I was treated when I was a teenager. Is this a problem? Should I even disclose this on the "applicant's health statement?" Thanks a lot!

lifeinkorea · Joined: 24 Jan 2009 Location: somewhere in China

I wouldn't even bother mentioning it. Just get the tests they ask for, nothing more. Leave all sharp objects at home, just in case.

Milwaukiedave · Joined: 02 Oct 2004 Location: Goseong

No, don't mention it. My guess is this was at least 10 years ago. If you are not on medication and not in therapy you are fine. Even if you were I still wouldn't bring it up.

moosehead · Joined: 05 May 2007

I thought this thread was about being depressed from one's E2 visa Shocked

ChinaBoy · Joined: 17 Feb 2007

Never disclose anything. No one in Korea will tell you the truth, therefore there is no reason for you to feel obligated to do so.

tob55 · Joined: 29 Apr 2007

Had friend who was in the same situation. He told nothing, nothing was asked, and it was no problem. If you have been off of medication for the length of time you are talking about, it should not be an issue. Hope it all works out for you.

clyde · Joined: 09 Jan 2006

I'm not being funny here, but if there was ever one country that could make you depressed.....

beatbox_bandit · Joined: 27 May 2009 Location: Washington State

laoshihao · Posted: Mon Jun 29, 2009 8:21 pm Post subject: Depression and Korea

I also suffered from depression. I didn't put anything on my visa application about it. That being said, I lived for several years in China without ever once wanting to go home or being depressed. I came to Korea with very high hopes for another long term adventure. By January I was ready to cut and run. Obviously, I didn't since I'm still in Korea. But if you have depression issues I would recommend a country where people are generally friendlier. It's bad enough working the long hours and then people just look through you, if they see you at all. I have gone days in my school where no one speaks to me other than the students. Also, if you have any space issues, this is not the country for you. My flat doesn't even have a window on an outside wall. I can reach the refrigerator and get a drink without ever getting out of my bed. My front door is a mere six steps from the bed, and I'm a short person. Winters are dark so if you are affected by lack of sunlight, I would not recommend Korea.

laoshihao · Posted: Mon Jun 29, 2009 8:25 pm Post subject: Depression and Korea

double post

laoshihao · Posted: Mon Jun 29, 2009 8:26 pm Post subject: Depression and Korea

triple post

teachling · Joined: 01 Oct 2009

If you don't disclose any "mental illness" on the visa, but you are taking medication like an SSRI or NDRI, couldn't that pose a problem for you when entering the country? If the authorities looked through your stuff and found pills prescribed to you, wouldn't they question you about why you failed to disclose this on your application?

I would like to hear from anyone who did not disclose depression and who entered the country with prescription drugs. Technically, I suppose I would simply claim that they are for "anxiety" if asked and assume that anxiety doesn't count as serious. Experiences?

travelingfool · Joined: 10 Mar 2008 Location: Parents' basement

Cerriowen · Joined: 03 Jun 2006 Location: Pocheon

Don't tell them. Don't tell them. Don't tell them.

Oh... and just in case... Don't mention it either Smile

teachling · Joined: 01 Oct 2009