Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Justsurfin12]

Ok... finishing up my paperwork to get ready to go to Korea for the first time.

I have my original diploma. I also have an official "replacement diploma", since I had to order one a while back (long story).

Soooo... I already have 2 "original" diplomas and can order another one at any time if I needed it.


I have all my other documents in hand, including a notarized CBC. However, I haven't had the CBC apostilled yet. I'll probably need to run to the state capital to get the CBC apostilled (easily doable in 1 day) and I know that I'll need the county clerk to authenticate the notary as well on that same day.


All that to ask this... while I'm making that run already to get the CBC apostilled, do I need to get one of the original diplomas apostilled at the same time? Or are they ok just as they are with transcripts to back them up? If I do take an original diploma, will immigration keep it or just review it and give it back to me?


If I do have to get a diploma apostilled, I'd rather get a copy made/notarized and the copy apostilled (an apostille is a lot cheaper than a diploma)...

What's actually required for the visa?

[oskinny1]

I can't remember what I did the last time I got my e2 (2006) so this time I am just getting 2 copies of the diploma notarized and apostilled. I will also bring my original just in case. It is only going to cost a few dollars extra and if they need it it will save you a few headaches.

[okayden223]

Send a notarized copy...things can be lost in the mail, mishandled, or damaged. You may receive pressure to send the originals, but plenty of people make it over here using the copies. I'm one of them.

[detourne_me]

I second the suggestion. Notarized copies all the way. I ended up getting a few extra notarized copies of my CBC and degree. A few years ago I lost my actual diploma while here, and have since learned my lesson.

[Chambertin]

Notarized and apostilled, then its good to go.
What apostille is:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apostille

How to get it: click on your country then follow the links
http://www.hcch.net/index_en.php?act=conventions.authorities&cid=41

Once you find your State, Province, or other agency always call them to check to see if there is a walk in, or other service that can save you time or money.

If it is not apostilled it is not valid for international use (officially)
When I got my visa I took my original just incase the rumors you hear about needing the official original were true.
The lady at the counter threw it back at me.
There is no truth to the statement that you need to send, produce, or otherwise show the original to anyone if the copy is properly apostille stamped.

[Savant]

I used my Original Diploma to get my last Visa. I got it back from Immigration; they don't keep your diploma, only the CBC.

For me, it is cheaper and quicker to order a replacement diploma than to notarise and apostille a copy.

[Straphanger]

Repeat, please.

I will never give my original diploma to anyone.

Again.

I will never give my original diploma to anyone.

Practice in front of a mirror if you have to. Make a photocopy, get it notarized, get an apostille.

[Savant]

[E_athlete]

[Oreovictim]

I sent my original degree the last two contracts and didn't have any trouble getting them back. But after reading the stories on here about schools holding them as ransom, never again.

So I called a title/certificate place, and they said that they'll make a copy of my diploma and notarize it for $5.00; it seems worth it. But do I then have to take it to the nearest Korean consulate for a final stamp/signature?

[Kikomom]

Get your CBC and a notarized copy of your diploma apostilled together at the same time, same places. For US citizens, your state's Sec. of State in most places.* Keep copies of all your documents for your personal files. And keep your original degree.

*See Chambertin's links, or google it for yourself.

[Seoul'n'Corea]