Korean Job Discussion Forums

[DWilliams]

Hi All! I'm new to the ESL teaching in Korea. I have received a job offer, signed a contract, sent off paperwork, and am now awaiting my visa issuance number. Luckily, I was able to prearrange an interview, prior to receiving my number. Let me clarify, I know that I cannot interview without the number, but I already set it up for 2 weeks out (hopefully visa issuance number will be given by then.) I have to go to Atlanta for my consulate interview.

Okay, my question is this: I have a clean Statewide CRC. However, my FBI background (which I did not submit) will show an arrest (not conviction) for resisting an arrest in 2004. I received deferred adjudication and probation, which means I'll never have an actual conviction.

No, I'm not asking whether it'll prevent me from getting a visa, because no one really knows the answer to that; so I concur from reading numerous other posts.

What I am pondering is this: Since my statewide is clean; I will possibly be issued a visa issuance number based on that. However, I will have to answer yes to the question on the consulate application that asks if I've ever been arrested or charged with a criminal offense in or out of the country. Won't that information look contradictory, and make it seem as if I'm a liar?

My recruiter only requested a statewide, and asked me if that was clean, so I honestly answered yes. I am just nervous as I don't know what, because I will not lie on the application. I just pray it "may" be overlooked, if I was already issued the visa issuance number.

Anyone have an experience like this in the past? If so, what was the outcome? Thanks for applicable and relevant responses!

[DWilliams]

Well, just to let you all know...honesty is the best policy! I did checkmark that I had been arrested previously in my country and the consul asked for an explanation.

I explained, best I could, with few words. Told him I felt very embarrassed by the arrest. I felt like a complete dork though, since no one else had any kind of arrest records.

Oh well, I'm sure glad he was understanding. The clerk told us all (it was 7 of us) to come back tomorrow to pick up our visas after 11!! Woohoo!!