Korean Job Discussion Forums

[vortexy]

Hello,
I'm finishing up with a university here--contract ends Aug 31.

Are they required to give me a letter of release if I ask for it? I am finishing my contract and going to a new school. All is well--no problems but the staff member who gives these is very difficult and likes to make life as difficult as possible for the foreign employees.

Also, is it their legal right to know where I'm going? In the past I heard he asked someone that and I don't want them to know where I'm going.

Thanks for any input....

[frankly speaking]

If you have completed your 12 month contract, then you don't need a letter of release. If however you didn't complete your contract, then you need one.

You will need to get a new visa for a new contract though. The letter of release is when you transfer schools mid contract not after completing a contract.

Why would any school need to know where you are going to for your next job? They will find out though if you use them as a reference.

NO school is required to give you a letter of release.

[vortexy]

Thanks frankly....

I've already been hired by a new university, but the university staff person who is handling my new visa (starting Sept1) told me that I needed a release for when this contract ends, and then the new one begins. There can't be even a one day difference or I have to do the visa whole thing, the background check, the consulate interview, etc, etc..again. Otherwise, it's just a change of school.

Why would any school need to know where you are going to for your next job? Because that's the kind of person he is. Meddling and willing to go to great lengths to exert power and demean others.

[moosehead]

your new school is correct - especially as it sounds like you are transferring your visa at the end of your contract - or that's what they'd like to do.

doesn't mean you necessarily have to tell the old employer - just say you need an LOR so you can transfer to a new job, your contract is up, etc.

best thing to do is walk in with it already prepared, both a K and E version, hand it to him and say this is a little detail I need before I leave. Kindly can you sign it please. be persistent and make sure he signs it then and there and don't forget the little stamp Ks use by their signature.

also - I'm thinking in terms of an E2 - don't know if you are on an E1 and the same rules apply?

IF you are seriously concerned about the 1st employer interfering in the new position, just leave the country and do a visa run, you'll have to pay for it probably since your new employer just wants to transfer the visa but maybe in the long run it'll be worth the trouble.

basically only you can decide if it's necessary.

[saram_]