Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Tungi]

I searched around a bit and found infomation that was not only old, but not necessarily descriptive of my sitution. I apologize as this question may be repetitive.

I am an American who is currently working in Incheon. I have been here just over 10 and a half months. I have a 13 month visa, but my contract ends next month on the 24th. I was told that they gave me the extra month for travel. I will finish my contract and I want to get a new job WITHOUT leaving Korea. I have a wonderful girlfriend who I would like to continue dating so I would not like to leave her alone for a couple months while I go back to the US.

My questions: How does one finish a contract and start a new job immediately? What paperwork does one need? What are the steps that one must follow?

I was under the impression that I could finish my contract and, as long as I had my E2 visa still active, I could simply get a new employer to sign me up and sponsor me. Am I wrong? Do I need to make a run to Japan? Do I need a release letter for my last month? Do I need to send for a new diploma and record check?

I am deeply confused as I was told it was easy, yet my boss told me today that I would have to go back to the US or Japan to get new paperwork. I would be extremely thankful if someone could help shed light on my situation and lead me through the hoops that I must leap through. I am very worried that I will have to waste time and money by leaving korea.

[ttompatz]

At the end of your contract a simple transfer of your sponsorship to a new employer is easy.

Find a new job.
sign a new contract.
Go to immigration with:

ARC
passport
new contract
Guarantee (sponsorship form) from the new employer
copy of business registration (for the new employer)
application to transfer
fee (60k won for the transfer and 30k won for the ARC extension)

The process takes about 30 minutes at immigration.

If you haven't found a new job then change to a D10 visa (lets you stay and look for work - valid for up to 6 months).

You do NOT need new apostilled copies of your FBI check or Degree copy.

.

[YTMND]

Find a new employer as soon as possible. You have some time so you can assure your current employer you want to use that extra month to "look" for a new employer. Make it obvious you don't need to get paid during that month.

They probably paid for a 1 year lease on your apartment, so their default stance is that you have to leave Korea. They don't want you to overstay in your apartment.

I used a goshiwon/goshitel to "migrate" over to my next school. That's an option if you need more time. Otherwise, interview in person now and get the job you want now. Transfer, and there will be no need to leave the country.

[Tungi]

Thank you guys so much.