Korean Job Discussion Forums

[pianowill]

I'm currently seeking a position to teach English in South Korea and the recruiter requires these documents:
� Bachelor's Degree (notarized)
� Sealed transcript
� 2 pieces of passport photo
� Copy of your passport�s picture page
� Criminal record check (apostilled)

Would a photocopy of my bachelor's degree suffice or do I need to contact my university about getting a second copy of my degree?

I can handle the transcript, photo, and passport, but what is this "apostilled" thing? From what I understand, it's merely a validation that a document is factual, correct? I did a google search, and started filling out a form for an apostilled criminal record check, and it said it would be $343! What is the most efficient way in time and money to send the required criminal record check?

[Ash Devereaux]

I'm not sure about the Bachelor's degree, but I think you have to send it the Korean consulate and let them make a copy and notarize it. (I'm just sending mine, but they're not getting my Master's!). If you're worried, I'd just get a second copy of your degree from your university.

As for the apostille, it will cost that much if you go through one of the private online companies. Send it to your secretary of state. Your recruiter should be able to tell you the process, though make sure with your SoS the price. The list my recruiter sent me said $5 for the apostille, but it costs $20 for the apostille in La.

[Robot_Teacher]

No, not $343, it's about $20 at your state capital secretary of state's office. Just walk in with it if you can and it's a one day deal. It took me one day to get transcripts, state police check, notarization, and apostille of state CBC by visiting my state capital.

That quote you got through Google is for a private company to do this on your behalf in the event you're outside the US and can't go home. Cheaper and easier than making an air trip there and back. Don't do that if you're home. It's too easy to save $323 minus transportation cost to drive, train, or bus to your state capital.

[blackjack]

[pianowill]

I live in Kansas, USA. So is an apostille like a notary? I am an hour's drive from the state capital so I will have no problem going there. Where can I obtain the criminal background check?

[DrugstoreCowgirl]

[Kikomom]

Yes, it's helpful to know what state you are in, if you are a US citizen. The notary must be in the same state where you are having it apostilled. The purpose of an apostille is for a govt. official to authenticate that the Notary Public is a real one and registered with the state. The notary certifies that your signature on the documents is YOU swearing that the document is real.

Don't use the ones online. But you can use the net to locate and find the proper procedure used in your state. Google your state govt's website and use the search function for 'apostille'. Nine times out of ten it's the State's Secretary of State. (not to be confused with Hilary Clinton in the Federal govt)

If you're Canadian, Brit, or one of the other seven native English countries, try a google search for that govt website. Not every country has the apostille agreement.

[Kikomom]

Kansas
http://www.kssos.org/business/notary_public/certifications.html

[pianowill]

Thanks everybody for your help! I think I can take it from here. If I have any more questions, I'll be back!

[makemischief]

Just a note for those doing this in Korea and are from the States:

Step 1- order and receive your basic state check (no fingerprints required).

Step 2- Take that to the US Embassy here along with a typed paper that you have written that self-declares you are not a criminal.

Step 3- They will notarize this self declaration for about 30 bucks.

Step 4- Hand in both when you apply for your new E2 Visa to immigration.

MUCH simpler than lots of back and forth sending, and has worked for many people. I'm pretty sure someone already posted this on here, but it bears repeating.