Korean Job Discussion Forums

socratesocks · Joined: 18 Mar 2009 Location: Gwangju, Met City

I really don't know how this isn't a sticky, but I've looked everywhere and I can't find anything.

How does one get a document apostilled in the United States?

In order to teach in Korea a background check and your diploma must be apostilled, correct?

the oak llama · Joined: 05 Dec 2008

check your PM

Kikomom · Posted: Tue May 12, 2009 8:45 am Post subject:

Here you go, Socks. This should help you in Philly:
http://www.dos.state.pa.us/notaries/cwp/view.asp?a=1250&q=445147

Specifically for PA:
How Do I Obtain an Apostille or Certification?

A notary will make a copy of your degree and notarize the copy. You do not need to notarize and apostille your original degree, send the COPY to Harrisburg for the apostille. It takes about a week to get them to Harrisburg and back.

When they get back from Harrisburg, make yourself a hard copy to keep in your personal files and scan them into your computer for future reference and/or to send to your recruiter/school by email.

I have read on these forums that some schools will accept the emailed scans as your application/contract package and you don't have to fedex everything over to get your visa issuance number. Other places do want the originals fedexed to Korea. Either way, make sure you keep copies of all your correspondence and documents.

Qi · Joined: 29 Apr 2009

It varies by location, but usually your Secretary of State (in your home State) can perform this task (for a fee).

AmericanExile · Joined: 04 May 2009

I just did this in Illinois for my CRC. Goto the county sheriff's office where you live for the CRC. Most police departments or sheriff's offices have a Notary Public on staff. You will want to call to make sure both the sheriff and Notary Public are there at the same time. They did this for me for free. Then you can send it or drive it to the state Department of Index. It takes two weeks by mail. It takes 30 minutes in person. It costs $2.

Other documents are similiar. The key is the Notary Public has to be there to witness the official signature. Once they stamp that they did, you're golden.

socratesocks · Joined: 18 Mar 2009 Location: Gwangju, Met City

Thanks for the help. Your answers have been spot on.

One extra question though. How long does an apostilled background check or diploma last? If I get it done now and I want to actually leave in August, or lets say next year, can I use the same documents?

Kikomom · Posted: Tue May 12, 2009 12:00 pm Post subject:

AFAIK, the CRC has to be under six months old to apply for your visa.