Korean Visa Process for Hagwon Teachers: Step-by-Step Guide

Securing your E-2 teaching visa is the essential gateway to teaching English at a Korean hagwon. While the process involves multiple steps and considerable paperwork, understanding the timeline and requirements makes it straightforward and manageable. This guide walks you through every stage of obtaining your E-2 visa, from document collection to arrival in Korea.

Understanding the E-2 Visa

The E-2 visa is specifically designed for foreign language instructors in Korea. It allows you to work legally at educational institutions, including hagwons, for the duration of your contract (typically one year, renewable).

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for an E-2 visa, you must meet these non-negotiable criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited university (in any field)
• Citizenship from one of seven designated English-speaking countries: United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa
• Clean criminal record with no disqualifying offenses
• Good health verified through medical examination
• Sponsoring employer (your hagwon) in Korea

Timeline Overview

The entire visa process typically takes 8-12 weeks from start to finish. Breaking it down:

• Document collection: 2-4 weeks
• Apostille/authentication: 1-2 weeks
• Visa issuance number processing in Korea: 2-4 weeks
• Visa application at consulate: 3-7 business days
• Total: Approximately 2-3 months

Plan accordingly and begin the process well in advance of your intended start date.

Phase 1: Document Collection (Weeks 1-4)

Your first task is gathering the required documents. This phase happens in your home country before any contact with Korean authorities.

Required Documents

1. Bachelor’s Degree Diploma (Original)

You’ll need your actual diploma, not a copy. If you’ve misplaced your original, contact your university’s registrar office immediately to request a replacement. This process alone can take 2-4 weeks.

Some universities provide official sealed copies that Korean immigration will accept. Confirm with your recruiter whether this is acceptable.

2. Official University Transcripts (Sealed)

Request official transcripts directly from your university in a sealed envelope. You typically need 2-3 copies:

• One for apostille/authentication
• One for your employer
• One backup copy

Most universities charge $10-20 per transcript and process requests within 1-2 weeks.

3. FBI Background Check (USA) or Equivalent

For US Citizens:

• Apply through the FBI’s channeler service or directly through the FBI
• Turnaround time: 2-4 weeks via channeler, 8-12 weeks through FBI directly
• Cost: $50-75
• The document must be issued within 6 months of your visa application

For Canadian Citizens:

• Apply for RCMP Criminal Record Check through accredited companies
• Processing time: 2-4 weeks
• Cost: Approximately $25-75 CAD

For UK Citizens:

• Apply for Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check or ACRO Criminal Records Office check
• ACRO checks are typically used for overseas employment
• Processing time: 2-4 weeks

For citizens of other qualifying countries: Contact your national police authority for the equivalent criminal background check. The document must be a national-level check (not state or local) and issued within 6 months.

4. Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Korea. If your passport is expiring soon, renew it before beginning the visa process.

Ensure you have at least 2-3 blank pages for visa stamps and entry/exit stamps.

5. Passport-Sized Photos

Requirements:

• 3.5cm x 4.5cm (standard Korean passport photo size)
• Recent photo (taken within 6 months)
• White background
• Professional appearance

Get 6-8 photos taken. Many photo studios and even some pharmacies can produce these for $10-20.

6. Health Certificate

Some Korean consulates require a health certificate from your home country, though this requirement varies by consulate. Check with your specific consulate.

If required, you’ll need:

• Physical examination from a licensed physician
• Testing for specific conditions (tuberculosis, HIV, drug use)
• Completed on consulate-provided forms

Note: You’ll also complete a comprehensive health check in Korea after arrival, which is mandatory for all E-2 visa holders.

Phase 2: Apostille/Authentication (Weeks 3-5)

This is the most crucial and often confusing step. Your documents must be authenticated for use in Korea.

Understanding Apostille vs. Authentication

For countries that signed the Hague Apostille Convention (USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa): Your documents require an apostille stamp.

An apostille is an official certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document for international use.

How to Get Documents Apostilled

For US Citizens:

Your degree and FBI background check need separate apostilles from different authorities.

Degree Apostille:

• Contact the Secretary of State office in the state where your university is located (not where you live)
• Send your diploma or have the university send official transcripts directly
• Processing time: 1-3 weeks depending on state
• Cost: $10-30 per document
• Many states offer expedited service for additional fees

FBI Background Check Apostille:

• Send your FBI check to the US Department of State in Washington, DC
• They issue apostilles for federal documents
• Processing time: 2-4 weeks
• Cost: $8 per document
• Expedited service available

For Canadian Citizens:

• Documents must be authenticated by Global Affairs Canada
• First, get your documents notarized by a Canadian notary public
• Submit to Global Affairs Canada for authentication
• Processing time: 15-20 business days
• Cost: $50 CAD per document
• Service available by mail or in-person in Ottawa

For UK Citizens:

• Documents must be apostilled by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
• Submit documents through the FCDO’s online portal or by post
• Processing time: Standard service is typically 2-3 weeks
• Cost: £30-40 per document
• Premium same-day service available for additional cost

For Australian, New Zealand, and South African Citizens:

• Each country has designated competent authorities for issuing apostilles
• Contact your country’s Department of Foreign Affairs or equivalent
• Processing times and costs vary by country

Important Tips

• Certification order matters: Some documents need notarization before apostille (check your consulate’s requirements)
• Keep originals safe: Once apostilled, these documents are difficult to replace
• Make copies: Before sending documents anywhere, make several clear photocopies
• Track everything: Use certified mail with tracking when sending valuable documents

Phase 3: Sending Documents to Korea (Week 5)

Once your documents are collected and apostilled, you’ll send them to your hagwon in Korea.

Shipping Methods

International Express Courier (Recommended):

• DHL, FedEx, or UPS
• Delivery time: 2-5 business days
• Cost: $50-100
• Trackable and insured
• Most reliable option

Standard International Mail:

• Cheaper ($20-40) but slower (2-3 weeks)
• Less reliable tracking
• Not recommended for time-sensitive or valuable documents

Your hagwon may specify their preferred shipping method or may cover shipping costs.

What to Include

• All apostilled documents
• Color copies of your passport photo page
• Passport photos
• Completed visa application forms (if provided by employer)
• Cover letter with your contact information

Keep copies of everything you send. Photograph each document before shipping.

Phase 4: Visa Issuance Number (Weeks 6-9)

This phase happens entirely in Korea and is handled by your hagwon and their immigration attorney.

What Happens During This Phase

Your employer submits your documents to the Korean Immigration Office along with:

• Your employment contract
• Business registration documents
• Tax documents
• Letter of invitation

The immigration office reviews everything and, if approved, issues a Visa Issuance Number (also called Visa Issuance Certificate or Visa Grant Number). This is a unique reference number proving that Korean immigration has pre-approved your visa application.

Processing Time

This typically takes 2-4 weeks but can occasionally extend to 6 weeks during peak hiring seasons (February-March and July-August) or if additional documentation is requested.

Your employer will track this process and inform you once the number is issued.

What If Issues Arise

If immigration requires additional documents or clarification:

• Your employer will contact you immediately
• Respond promptly with requested information
• Minor issues can usually be resolved quickly
• This may add 1-2 weeks to the timeline

Phase 5: Applying at the Korean Consulate (Weeks 10-11)

Once you receive your Visa Issuance Number, you can apply for the actual E-2 visa at a Korean consulate in your home country.

Locating Your Consulate

Korea has consulates in major cities across all qualifying countries. You typically must apply at the consulate with jurisdiction over your current residence.

Find your nearest consulate at the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or through a simple online search.

Required Materials for Consulate

• Visa application form (download from consulate website or pick up in person)
• Passport (original, valid for 6+ months)
• Passport photos (2 photos)
• Visa Issuance Number (provided by your employer)
• Copy of employment contract
• Application fee ($80-130 depending on consulate and nationality)

Some consulates require appointment scheduling; others accept walk-ins during specified hours. Check your specific consulate’s procedures.

The Application Process

Step 1: Complete the Application Form Fill out the E-2 visa application form completely and accurately. Any errors may delay processing.

Step 2: Visit the Consulate Bring all required documents and the application fee (often cash only, though some accept cards).

Step 3: Submit Application A consular officer will review your documents at the counter. They may ask basic questions about your position, employer, or teaching experience.

Step 4: Pay the Fee Submit payment and receive a receipt with pickup information.

Step 5: Collect Your Passport Most consulates process E-2 visas within 3-7 business days. Some offer same-day expedited service for additional fees.

You’ll return to collect your passport with the visa sticker affixed inside.

Visa Details

Your E-2 visa will show:

• Visa type: E-2
• Validity period: Typically single-entry valid for 3 months from date of issue
• Duration of stay: Will be determined at port of entry (usually matching your contract length)

The visa must be used within its validity period. Once you enter Korea, you’ll receive an Alien Registration Card for the duration of your stay.

Phase 6: Preparing for Departure (Week 12)

With visa in hand, you’re ready to prepare for departure.

Final Preparations

Book Your Flight: Most hagwons provide round-trip airfare or reimbursement. Coordinate with your employer on:

• Preferred arrival dates
• Airport (Incheon International Airport in Seoul is most common)
• Whether they book the flight or reimburse you

Arrange Airport Pickup: Confirm pickup arrangements with your employer. Most provide airport pickup as part of your package.

Pack Appropriately: Korea has four distinct seasons. Bring clothing appropriate for your arrival season, though you can purchase most items in Korea.

Prepare Documents for Entry: Carry in your carry-on bag:

• Passport with E-2 visa
• Copy of employment contract
• Employer’s contact information
• Proof of accommodation (your employer will provide this)
• Copy of visa issuance number

Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank of international travel to avoid card blocks.

Phase 7: Arrival in Korea

At Immigration

Upon arrival at a Korean airport, proceed to immigration with your passport ready.

The Immigration Officer Will:

• Verify your E-2 visa
• Ask the purpose of your visit (answer: “English teaching”)
• Possibly ask about your employer
• Stamp your passport with entry date
• Provide a temporary landing permission

This process is straightforward and typically takes just a few minutes.

Within Your First Week

Health Examination (Required): Within your first few days, you’ll complete a comprehensive health examination at a designated hospital. This is mandatory for all E-2 visa holders.

Tests include:

• Physical examination
• Chest X-ray (tuberculosis screening)
• Blood tests (including HIV)
• Urinalysis (drug screening)

Cost: Approximately 100,000-150,000 KRW (usually covered by your employer)

Results take 3-5 business days.

Alien Registration Card Application: Within 90 days of arrival (but typically done within the first 2 weeks), you must apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC) at your local immigration office.

Required documents:

• Passport
• Completed health examination results
• Passport photos
• Application form
• Application fee (30,000 KRW)
• Proof of address (housing contract)

Your employer will typically accompany you for this appointment.

The ARC serves as your legal identification in Korea and is required for:

• Opening bank accounts
• Getting a phone plan
• Signing contracts
• Traveling domestically

Processing time: 2-3 weeks. You’ll receive a paper receipt to carry until your card arrives.

Important Considerations

Document Validity Periods

• Criminal background check: Must be issued within 6 months of visa application
• Passport: Must be valid 6+ months beyond your intended stay
• Health exam (Korea): Valid for the duration specified by immigration

If any documents expire during the process, you may need to obtain updated versions.

Common Processing Delays

Processing may take longer during:

• Peak hiring seasons (February-March, July-August)
• Holiday periods in Korea (Lunar New Year, Chuseok)
• Government holidays in your home country

Build buffer time into your planning to accommodate potential delays.

Costs Summary

Budget for these expenses:

• FBI/background check: $50-75
• University transcripts: $20-40
• Apostille services: $20-80
• Passport photos: $10-20
• Shipping to Korea: $50-100
• Consulate visa fee: $80-130
• Health examination: 100,000-150,000 KRW
• ARC application: 30,000 KRW

Total approximate cost: $250-500 USD plus 130,000-180,000 KRW

Many hagwons reimburse some or all of these costs, either upfront or after contract completion. Clarify reimbursement policies with your employer.

Visa Changes and Extensions

If you complete your one-year contract and wish to stay at the same hagwon:

• Your employer applies for visa extension
• You submit updated documents to immigration
• Your ARC will be extended accordingly
• Process is simpler than initial application

If you change employers:

• New employer must sponsor a new visa
• You’ll need to update your ARC with new employer information
• Some documents may need to be resubmitted

Resources and Support

Official Resources:

• Hi Korea (Korean Immigration Service): www.hikorea.go.kr
• Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs: www.mofa.go.kr
• Your country’s Korean consulate website

Your Employer’s Role: Your hagwon and their immigration attorney handle most of the Korea-side processing. They should:

• Provide clear instructions for document preparation
• Track visa issuance number status
• Coordinate health examination appointments
• Accompany you to immigration appointments
• Assist with ARC application

Don’t hesitate to ask questions throughout the process. Good employers understand this is complex and will provide support.

Final Thoughts

The E-2 visa process is document-intensive and requires patience, but it follows a clear, predictable path. Thousands of teachers successfully complete this process every year.

Start early, stay organized, keep copies of everything, and maintain communication with your employer. With proper planning and attention to detail, you’ll have your visa in hand and be ready to begin your Korean teaching adventure.

The bureaucratic process may seem daunting, but it’s simply the gateway to what can be an incredibly rewarding experience living and working in Korea. Once you’re past the paperwork phase, you can focus on what really matters: your students, your new life abroad, and exploring Korean culture.