Korean Job Discussion Forums

[travelnguy]

I received a letter from Busan Immigration today and the wording isn't the best. What's your take on this?

"This time E-2 sojourn application is processed according to current immigration rules. But next time applying for alien registration or the next sojourn (extension, workplace transfer, visa status transfer, activities beyond the limits of current status), foreigners should hand in the below-mentioned document. Otherwise the sojourn related application will not be made."

Ok, so do they mean that I officially don't need any additional documents (just the same ones I used last year)? Or does "this time" mean the current visa I am on and "next time" mean my 2011 visa that I will apply for in February?

The letter says to check out their website at hikorea.go.kr, but it states that regardless of how long I've been here, if I am applying after January 1, 2011, that I will 100% need an FBI check and an apostille on my diploma.

I did call immigration, but the one person I spoke to said to have my co-teacher call. Seeing how my co-teacher doesn't do much of anything, nor speak much English, I am hoping someone on here can clear things up.

I've read a few posts saying that these new requirements are being pushed back a year, but I would really like to know prior to wasting a bunch of money and time. My next contract will be my last here and I will not need an apostilled diploma or an FBI check when I head back home.

Thanks and sorry this is so long.

[NYC_Gal]

It seems as if they're giving you warning that you'll need the new documents for your next renewal. It's better to be safe and have them ready.

[tombanjo]

It seems that others have had it verified by their superiors and some, by immigration, that the requirements will not go into effect for this renewal, but rather will take place on your "next renewal."

Someone on another thread said that they went in to immigration to renew and this was verified. Another mentioned a letter from their Provincial Coordinator saying the same thing. I myself have heard from my district coordinator that this is the case - that we do not need the new requirements for this renewal, but if we renew again next year then we will.

I'd say, if you haven't started on the stuff and don't want to stay longer than a year more, then don't bother with it.

[nathanrutledge]

Even if the new regulations are being postponed (which, has this been confirmed 100% yet?) you can still turn in an FBI check on your new visa and it will cover you for as long as you're in the country, no problems. So turn it in this year, renew next year, you'll be covered AS LONG AS you don't let your current visa lapse. If you continue on the visa and don't reside in the US during that time (i think the limit is one month) then you don't need another crc.