Korean Job Discussion Forums

[cincynate]

I worked for EPIK for one year. After that year I decided to go for the better hours and pay and go with a Hagwon. Unfortunately a month into my contract my father fell very ill, and I decided I needed to go back to spend his last days with him. My hagwon director was super-cool, and said he would hold my position open for a month. After the month, we mutually decided that it was best for me to stay in the US with my father. It is now 7 months later, and I am ready to return. I secured a job and sent my paperwork over, however, I just realized that there are 3 months left on my visa. My former boss said he cancelled the visa after I left. He's a super guy and i'm sure he will vouch for me to immigration if needed. However, am I going to run into issues when trying to apply for a new visa?

[SeoulNate]

Only if your visa didn't actually get canceled.

Since you thought you were coming back, I would assume that you hung onto your alien card.

The easiest way to check is to call immigration yourself and make an inquiry about your ARC number. If it is still active, obviously you will need to get it canceled.

[cincynate]

You're correct. I still have my ARC card, as when I was leaving I expected it only to be for a week or two. Will that change anything? My boss assures me that he cancelled my visa.. so hopefully my new Hagwon is able to apply for a new visa for me.

[ontheway]

[lifeinkorea]

I think it would actually be easier if they didn't cancel, because then all you would have to do is transfer the visa if you still have your ARC card.

This brings up an interesting question. I understand new teachers who decide not to go with a school who got a visa number issued have to wait 45 or 90 days before they can get a new one. Would the same type of thing apply here if you don't hand in your ARC card? If so, then the OP might be in the clear. It looks like 6 months have passed.