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South Korea visas

South Korea work visa

The E-2 visa is for foreign language teachers working in South Korea.

Ways to get a South Korea work visa

  1. E-2 Foreign Language Teaching visa

    Visa needed

    Foreign language teachers who are native residents of a country whose mother tongue matches the language they will teach can apply.

    Fee
    A fee is required; the amount is not specified.
    1. Gather the required checks, education records and contract.
    2. Submit the application, documents and fee.
    3. Attend an embassy or consulate interview if applying for the first time.

Who needs it

Foreign language teachers using the E-2 route must be native residents of a country whose mother tongue matches the language they will teach.

How to apply

  1. Prepare the required checks, education records and contract.
  2. Submit the visa application with the required documents and fee.
  3. First-time applicants must attend an embassy or consulate interview.

What to bring

  • Criminal background check.
  • Health check.
  • Sealed transcripts.
  • Verified copies of the degree.
  • Contract.

Good to know

  • The language taught must match the mother tongue of the applicant's country of native residence.
  • The government announced the removal of the HIV test requirement in 2017.

Questions

Do I need a work visa for South Korea?

Foreign language teachers using the E-2 route must be native residents of a country whose mother tongue matches the language they will teach.

How much does a South Korea work visa cost?

A fee is required; the amount is not specified.

What documents do I need for a South Korea work visa?

Criminal background check.; Health check.; Sealed transcripts.; Verified copies of the degree.; Contract..

How do I apply for a South Korea work visa?

1. 1. Prepare the required checks, education records and contract. 2. 2. Submit the visa application with the required documents and fee. 3. 3. First-time applicants must attend an embassy or consulate interview.

What rules do I have to follow on a South Korea work visa?

The language taught must match the mother tongue of the applicant's country of native residence.

Does my passport change whether I need a work visa for South Korea?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the South Korea visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a work visa for South Korea be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest South Korea work visa rules?

On South Korea's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my work visa once I am in South Korea?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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