Korean Job Discussion Forums

[rgreen8314]

Hi. I can't find this information anywhere, so I may as well ask...

Here's the situation:

My (E2) visa expires on Feb. 16.

I got a multiple-entry stamp before going on vacation this summer, which also expires Feb 16.

My contract expires on Feb 26. Therefore I will need a visa extension. I was planning to get this done in January once I have a plane ticket home.

I'm going on vacation to Cambodia and returning Feb. 20, four days after that multiple entry stamp expires.

By extending my visa, am I also extending the multiple-entry stamp? Or will there be trouble when I come back from Cambodia with a valid visa but an expired multiple-entry stamp?

Thanks.

[tired of LA]

No, your multiple entry stamp is not extended when you extend your visa. You must apply for another multiple entry stamp if you plan on leaving and coming back on the visa.

[rgreen8314]

Thanks for the info.

Damn.

But just clarify - even if it's just the short-term 30-day extension so I can finish my contract? Not an all-out one-more-year extension.

[tired of LA]

Yeah, you can't re-enter on the visa if you don't have a valid re-entry permit. They will cancel your visa on the spot and you would enter on a tourist visa.

When you extend your visa in order to complete your contract, you must present a copy of your contract. The visa will only be extended to the end date on the contract, it will not be a one year extension.

[storysinger81]

Your visa will be canceled at the border. Get a single-entry permit for your Feb 20 entry.

[rgreen8314]

Thanks for the help.

So... could I leave for vacation without extending my visa, and then when I return on Feb 20 just reenter on a tourist visa since I'll be leaving for good about ten days later? Is there a foreseeable problem with this?

[tired of LA]

You could do that, but you're not allowed to work on a tourist visa. So you're not allowed teach during those ten days. If caught, you could be fined and get a black mark on your immigration record, which might make it harder for you to get another visa if you plan on coming back.

[rgreen8314]

Thanks, tired of LA. Something to consider, as I have no plans to return. But ya never know... Really just looking for a way out of spending 50,000 for a re-entry stamp I have already purchased and will use exactly once more. Appreciate your input.