Korean Job Discussion Forums

[ren546]

My university wants me to switch from an E2 to an E1. I'm leaving for vacation on Wednesday, and they told me that, when I leave, I can just surrender my ARC card on my way out. They will apply for my new visa issuance, and I can get my new visa at the nearest consulate while on vacation.

I asked if I need any additional documents, and they said, "No", but for some reason I'm suspicious. I'm also reluctant to surrender my E2 on the way out (you know, because they're so hard to get these days).

So is the university right? Is it really this easy? Also, do I have to leave the country, or might immigration do a transfer when I get back (without me having to surrender my ARC)?

[ttompatz]

[globusmonkey]

One question, Ttom, while you're on the subject. I will be starting a university job in March, and switching from E2 to E1. My school has informed me that leaving the country is not necessary to make the change. Is that true? My current E2 expires on February 28, but can I make the change before that expiration?

I suppose that was two questions... thanks!

[ttompatz]

[globusmonkey]

Thanks! I'll try to remember to update on here when I go to immigration and find out what'll happen.

[ren546]

Thanks - I'll get admin to call immigration tomorrow just to make sure I don't need anything extra (I'll post if they say I do).

[Seon-bee]

1) I kept my ARC card when I left to get the E1 visa, but I handed it in on the way back. I still have the same # though.

2) To get the E1, I had to apostille my MA and transcripts and even go through another background check.

3) Others I heard from had a different experience as far as what documents were needed (confirming degrees, etc). It appears that rules and regulations may vary from office to office.

I hope the process goes smoothly for you, but I'd say expect the unexpected at the last minute.

[globusmonkey]

So, apparently it is possible to transfer from E2 to E1 without leaving the country, at least at the immigration office in Seoul. Here's the documents I needed and the experience I had this week:

Documents: Signed university contract (mine said copy, but that is all they give and it was OK), interview/decision paperwork from hiring committee (I don't know the name, but I got it from my university), university business license (provided by school), application form (pick up at Kimmi), ARC from E2, 20K stamps for new visa, 50K stamps for transfer from E2 to E1, passport, passport photo.

During my first visit, the officer said I needed the original contract and the hiring documentation (which were not included in my information packet). I had to go back the next day after obtaining said documents, where I spoke to another officer and all the above paperwork was accepted. I believe the second officer had already spoken to the Academic Director at my university, as another new teacher (E2 to E1) had the same problem last week. It would be a good idea to have a contact number for your department's director in case anything needs to be verified.

Overall, the second trip took about ten minutes and I'm scheduled to get my new E1 ARC in three weeks (hopefully sooner). Your mileage may vary, depending on where you are trying to transfer, but it is possible to make the change without doing a visa run. If you're looking for specifics on the Seoul office, just let me know and I can fill in the blanks. Good luck!

[ren546]

Update: My university applied for the E1 after I left (turned in my ARC at airport immigration). Got the number two days later. Went to the consulate here in NY and all I needed to do was fill out a visa application form, attach a photo, and pay $50, and they will have it ready tomorrow. No extra docs required.

They did say something weird about how they (NY) can only give American applicants a multiple entry visa. Canadians get single entry. I asked if I could change it at immigration when I get there and she said yes. Weird.[/u]

[ttompatz]

[NYC_Gal 2.0]

I only got an E2 from my uni, even though I had been told that I'd be E1. It's not a huge issue, I guess. I'll mention something lightly when the term starts, but I don't want to rock the boat so early on.

[World Traveler]

I wouldn't kick up a fuss about it. Seeing as how you have a bachelors degree (and no prior university experience), it wouldn't be easy for your university to get you a 교수 professor visa. (How on earth could they?) Just be thankful you got hired period with no MA.

[absolutmike]

Just a quick confirmation, that I too was recently able to switch from an E2 to an E1 at Seoul Immigration office.

Just started my 2nd two year contract at the same university, asked about switching from E2 to E1, no problem. No Visa Run, no re-submitting paperwork. Waited 3 weeks, picked up my new ARC card today.

[rainbowprof]

Anyone know if you can go the other way from e1 to e2 without leaving the country? Also does health insurance stop the day I finish my job?