Korean Job Discussion Forums

[ThingsComeAround]

Called the K consul (in NYC) today to ask what I need.

The woman was pretty cool- she asked me to bring the documents from Korea
Bachelor's degree, etc.

Then I asked about the $45 fee. She said they can only give out single entry visas then when I go to Korea I can reapply for a multiple-entry.

.....

I didn't get troubled, but that sounded pretty stupid. Honestly, if you know what it is you want (and will need) why do they have to make it more difficult than it should be?

In Japan, we just paid the 6000 Yen and that was it. No questions, they GAVE us the multiple-entry visa without asking (good thing to!)

Am I the only one with this problem? Did you recently have your E-2 visa given with multiple-entry?

[losing_touch]

As far as I know, Americans automatically get a Multi Entry visa. I know I certainly did when mine was issued in Bangkok. Has something changed?

[ThingsComeAround]

Yes, the representative told me that I could get a single-entry and after going to Korea, change it there.

It is so frustrating when officials say silly things and expect us to ride with it

[losing_touch]

Well, it is easy enough to change here, but it will be on your own dime. If you are only planning to leave once or twice while you are here, you can apply for re-entry permits at the airport as well. The multi entry change would need to be done at your local immigration office.

[jboney]

I got the same deal from the NYC consulate recently. I said,
"don't Americans get a multi-entry visa automatically?"
and she looked at me like I was an alien,
"No." she said. "You can only get it when you go to Korea. We don't do that here."

Just to double-check, I had a Korean friend call up and speak with them, and they told her the same thing.

[Trevor]

1. Calmly but firmly explain to the kind immigration official that there is an official treaty between our two countries and we automatically have the right to a multiple entry visa, for free, just as Koreans working in the U.S. have the right to a multiple entry visa. It is not necessary to apply for one when you get to Korea. (In fact, they would charge you if you did, and this goes against the treaty guidelines).

2. If the kind official still disagrees, politley ask them for their name and other identification and explain that you will be discussing this with your consulate and you will have them call their supervisor.

3. Watch the problem vanish into thin air as she processes your multiple entry visa.

This is very common. They do it routinely in Fukuoaka. It also seems fairly random who they pick to screw over. They know perfectly well that U.S. visas are all supposed to be processed as multiple entry. They seem to enjoy it and it is one of those things that give Koreans THEIR UNSHAKEABLE INTERNATIONAL REPUTATION.

[michaelambling]

[fusionbarnone]

[saw6436]

Americans should get a multi entry visa. I know did. Once in Korea it is a different story. If you re-new your visa immigration defaults to a single entry visa. You have to request and pay for a multi. (least ways that was my experience).

[Trevor]

No, I can't find it, but they understand the word 'treaty' and they know what it means in relation to the multiple entry visa. It works. Trust me. Tell them that the treaty says Koreans get a multiple entry when they come to work in the states and it is reciprocal. If they feign ignorance, refer to step two of my instructions.