Korean Job Discussion Forums

[FishSlapper]

I currently live in Seoul with my girlfriend of 4 years (ROK citizen). I finished my MA degree by studying abroad here this past fall and I am still living here on a student visa that is valid until March. I am now seeking out jobs in the sales/marketing sector because my SO and I wish to continue living in Korea together for now. I have been applying to mostly large corporations, both Korean and American, but I am unsure if I even have a chance of being hired because I currently would require a visa sponsorship to work in this country, as far as I understand. Thus, I am wondering if it is likely or even possible for me to be considered for jobs in this industry if I currently cannot legally work here. Will companies be willing to sponsor my visa?

I ask all this because my girlfriend and I are planning to get married at some point this year. We recently talked about moving things along a bit faster than planned so that I wouldn't have to worry about these visa issues when seeking out jobs. She isn't entirely opposed to the idea but at the same time she says she does not feel quite ready to make the step just yet (even though I just would want to sign papers now--do the ceremonies later). Thus, for now, she encourages me to just keep sending out applications and essentially "see what happens." So I am doing just that, but am I wasting my time? Do I even have a shot at landing a job here without first attaining a spouse visa?

Any input would be so greatly appreciated! Thank you so much, friends.

[jazzmaster]

The answer depends on the job and your MA. If your MA is in business/marketing and you are applying for a business/marketing job then it is possible for the hiring company to sponsor your E7 visa. However, the company must prove to immigration that a Korean is not able to do your job, therefore you should have an MA and experience. Depending on the company, immigration office, and your personal circumstances, you may or may not be able to get an E7 visa. I would recommend doing some research into the E7 visa.

Regarding your marriage: I would recommend waiting until your partner is ready to take the next step. Korean girls often wait until their late 20s/early 30s to get married. If your partner is of this age, yet is still reluctant to get married despite being together 4 years, then I would suggest having a serious talk about whether you have a future together. If she is in her early/mid 20s then I would be inclined to wait a couple of years.

Best of luck.

[cdninkorea]

I did. It was July 2010, and we had our wedding planned for October. My E2 visa was up at the end of July, so we went and did the paperwork for marriage to get my F visa then rather than have me renew the visa, then switch a few months later. But my then-fiancee wasn't reluctant about it.

[Coltronator]

Actually about 50% of Korean marriages are finished on paper about 4 months before the ceremony from what I have been led to believe and experienced.

[Stain]

[Coltronator]

yes

[Coltronator]

yes

[Cave Dweller]

The opposite occurs too. People have a ceremony and do not get a marriage licence until they have kids. Then in the first two years or so if things do not work out, it is just like a dating couple breaking up.

I dont think they have the equivalent of common law marriage here.