Korean Job Discussion Forums

[photoguy]

Okay, quick summary - I gave notice at my hagwon job a few weeks ago for various reasons (various disagreements with the school, plus a better job offer in another country). My boss wasn't thrilled, but was reasonable - I worked with him to figure out how the school should proceed and feel like I'm leaving on reasonably good terms. My last day was supposed to be next Friday (Sept 3), but my boss today asked me to bump that up to Tues, Aug 31 instead (easier for scheduling reasons - my last day now corresponds to the end of the summer class term).

Here's my concern - what happens to my visa if I don't leave Korea for a few days? My understanding is that Immigration cancels it once your employer says you've left your job and then gives you an exit order to leave the country in X days. I already have plane tickets booked to the U.S., but am not scheduled to fly out until Sat, Sept 4 so I'll be in Korea until the weekend.

My school hasn't given me any sort of info or paperwork except for having me put my name and ARC # on a Korean form to report my change of status to Immigration. They know that they are legally bound to report the change of status, but don't have the slightest clue what happens beyond that. So am I expected to depart the country IMMEDIATELY when my status changes, or do I automatically get an exit order giving me some time to get out of the country?

BTW, I'm a U.S. Citizen on a 5-month old E-2 multi-entry visa.

[lifeinkorea]

You should have like 14 days to leave. However, I doubt he has a replacement teacher this soon. It seems like ending things on Aug 31st might be helpful for them for other reasons (which I don't honestly know, maybe they have to pay pension or other stuff and are trying to avoid it).

Speaking of pension, you are still guaranteed that, so make sure you can get it. Go to pension office now and apply. Either it can be sent home or you will need internet access and can transfer the money then.

See if they are willing to report your status after you get this stuff resolved.

[photoguy]

Actually he DOES have a replacement teacher, guess I forgot to mention that. The early departure really is for scheduling reasons - I've spoken with both him and several co-workers and it really is kind of pointless to have me teach all new classes with new students for only three days then replace me.

Does anybody know exactly how long I have to leave the country, from the time my status changes?? Is it definitely at least 14 days? I would contact Immigration, but I don't have time to go to the office and have never been able to get a hold of them by phone.