Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Otherside]

So last year I gratefully hear that we will no longer need to submit CRC's if we have already submitted them and Immigration has them on record.

This year when the job-hunting season began, I double-checked this information, make sure my apostilled CRC and degree were submitted after the rules changed, and confirm with both my current employer and immi that I do not need new documents to transfer my visa or to get a new visa, provided I don't leave the country for more than 3 months.

Turns out, while I may not need the CRC for immigration purposes, I do need an apostilled CRC from my home country in order to apply for an EPIK/SMOE job.

It appears that even though the laws changed, and I haven't been in my home country since I submitted my last CRC, EPIK still wants a new one (Why they wouldn't ask for a Korean CRC instead, is beyond me?)

Can someone please confirm if this is officially the rule? Or is my recruiter ill-informed and just blowing smoke? If so, are there any ways around this? (Before someone asks, I have nothing to hide, I'm just doubtful I'll be able to get the docs in time, especially from out of country).

Lastly, does this also apply to my degree?

[jamesd]

Were you working as an EPIK teacher before applying for a new EPIK job?

[Skippy]

First off never assume things are status quo. Always prepare and get extra papers. (need to follow my own advice). Yes new rules and that are coming.

I found that Korea is never clear on the requirements. Plus over redundancy and resubmitting is par for course even when it is not needed or part of the rules. I think the worst example I heard once was somebody in the process of getting a job used 4 sealed transcripts. It seemed every agency and bureau wanted one - Recruiter, workplace, immigration, education.

Accept these truths - Korean Government Officials, recruiters, and bosses will usually not understand what path or route you are trying to go. They know A B C or even D E F, but they will not understand that G H I is possible. An EPIK hirer in the end is used to having most people go A B C and a few D E F, but give them somebody not on those two paths they will be reluctant to deal with.

Officials are not always the most informed. Yes they should know, but until they have done something about ten times does it sink in. Or takes time for them to learn the new routine.

You can be surprised how many officials and that are ignorant of the rules.
I have heard about and met people that got screwed royally because they thought there boss understood or should know the rules and processes of dealing with ESL teachers. Sometimes you have to be the one that does the work and keeps the eye out. You will have to help them help you.

Human nature - people are lazy. People will go the path of least resistance. Unless you make it worthwhile or easy for them, people will not make that extra effort for you. Hand someone extra work - they will either go no that can not be done, ya ya and it gets ignored or ignored with a NEXT!.

So in the end HOPE for the best but prepare for the WORST. Cross your fingers and hope any/all officials understand. Still get your paperwork processed. New rule treat your CRC like your password and toothbrush get a new one every six months. I think spending 100 or 200 dollars every six months is worth it, then spending thousands and time lost when thinks go crazy or haywire.

Good Luck!