Korean Job Discussion Forums

[lansell]

Hello,

I am currently in Osaka will be arriving in Korea shortly and hope to obtain my E2 visa in country. Besides needing my uni documents and my CRC, what is the process of getting a visa? Many recruiters have told me that as a first time teacher in Korea, I must return home first, but others assure me that there is no problem (I`ve read conflicting information on these forums as well).

Also, would people recommend getting a position ahead of time, or waiting until I arrive to find something?

Lastly, as I won`t require round-trip airfare, would it be feasible to request a signing bonus in lieu?

Thanks in advance,

[losing_touch]

Well, you aren't going to get a visa for Korea while you are in Korea. The only possible exception to this might be if you are going to work and live on Jeju where I have read reports of it being possible because of their special zone status. What this means is that if you come here without a visa, you are going to have to turn around and leave to get the visa in another country. Japan is the most popular destination for this. Employers will pay for this visa run, and they will know you have to do it when you are searching for a job.

As for the first E-2, it is normal that many have to do an interview in their home country. However, you don't have to do this. I know because I had my first E-2 issued in Bangkok last August. You will have to get your degree verified by the KCUE. Your future employer must initiate and handle this process for you. You cannot do it alone. It takes about 2 weeks for all to happen. Once it has happened, consulates can see that you have undergone the degree verification procedure. Having your degree verified allows you to have your first E-2 visa issued in a 3rd country.

Many recruiters and employers are oblivious to this information even though it is clearly stated on the immigration website. You may need to educate them a little bit if you find something you really want!

Good luck!

[Kikomom]

I've been under the impression that first-time visa requests must come from your home country, or possibly from the country of your present residence Someone here got one in Thailand once? {edit: that would be losing touch.}

And yes indeed, ask for the signing bonus in lieu of airfare. Never hurts to ask.

[losing_touch]

[lansell]

What about waiting to get a job in Korea, are there any (non-obvious) advantages to this approach?


PS: Thanks for the prompt replies, very helpful!

[losing_touch]

They all seem pretty obvious to me.