Korean Job Discussion Forums

[daojiao]

I want to come to Korea so I can spend two weeks with my girlfriend and do some sightseeing before training/work begins. Since I'm an American citizen, it looks like I'll just get the visa waiver stamp on my passport (like in Japan) and be able to stay in Korea for 90 days.

What I'm worried about is getting my E-2 visa. I have almost all the necessary documents and materials except for the State Dept. apostille on my FBI CRC, which should arrive within a week or so. Can I apply for the E-2 while in Korea?

Sorry if this has been answered before, but I searched the forum and was unable to find a topic addressing this exact situation.

[CentralCali]

If you enter Korea as a tourist, then you cannot work during that time. You will have to get your visa status changed before beginning the employment. Note that your employer will likely not be in the business of providing you transportation for a vacation prior to beginning your employment for them.

If you enter Korea on an employment visa, the beginning of the employment period is the day you entered on that particular visa.

Your post said "training/work." Is your prospective employer CDI?

[daojiao]

My contact at the school just replied and strongly advised me against going before getting my E-2, as apparently it must be done outside the country, which would mean going to Japan or something to get it done. Oh well. : (

[CentralCali]

You have never worked in Korea before? That might put a dent in the vacation time you're planning. Initial E-2 visas usually require a consulate interview in your home country now.

[jizza]