South Korea E-2 Teaching Visa Guide

Complete guide to obtaining the South Korean E-2 Visa for foreign language teachers and instructors

E-2 Teaching Visa South Korea

What is the E-2 Teaching Visa?

The E-2 visa is specifically designed for foreign language instructors who wish to teach languages such as English, French, German, etc., in South Korea. This visa is popular among native English speakers teaching at public schools, private academies (hagwons), and universities.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited university
  • Native speaker of the language you will teach
  • Clean criminal record
  • Pass medical examination including drug test
  • Valid passport from an eligible country
  • Secured job offer from a Korean employer

Required Documents

Essential Documents
  • Valid passport
  • Original diploma (apostilled)
  • Official sealed transcripts
  • Criminal Record Check (apostilled)
  • Signed contract from employer
  • Medical examination results
  • Passport-sized photos

Application Process

Step 1: Job Securing

Find and secure a teaching position with a Korean employer who will sponsor your visa.

Step 2: Document Preparation

Gather and authenticate all required documents, including apostille certification.

Step 3: Visa Issuance Number

Your employer will apply for your visa issuance number from Korean Immigration.

Step 4: Visa Application

Apply for the E-2 visa at your local Korean embassy or consulate.

Step 5: Medical Check in Korea

Complete a medical examination after arriving in Korea.

Visa Duration and Extension

The E-2 visa is typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually as long as you maintain employment with a qualified institution.

Extension Requirements:

  • Current employment contract
  • Letter of release (if changing employers)
  • Valid passport
  • Alien Registration Card
  • Recent medical check results

Teaching Locations

Public Schools:

  • EPIK (English Program in Korea)
  • GEPIK (Gyeonggi English Program in Korea)
  • SMOE (Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education)

Private Institutions:

  • Hagwons (private academies)
  • International schools
  • Universities
  • Corporate language programs

Quick Facts

  • Visa Type: Teaching Professional
  • Duration: 1 year (renewable)
  • Processing Time: 1-4 weeks
  • Extension Possible: Yes
  • Degree Required: Bachelor's or higher

Typical Benefits

  • Housing provided
  • Flight reimbursement
  • Health insurance
  • Severance pay
  • Paid vacation

Important Links

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Frequently Asked Questions

No, teaching experience is not mandatory for the E-2 visa. However, having a TEFL/TESOL certification or teaching experience can make you more competitive in the job market.

Yes, you can change employers, but you need to obtain a Letter of Release from your current employer and apply for a visa transfer within 30 days of contract termination.

E-2 visas are typically available to citizens of countries where the target language is the primary language: USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa for English teaching positions.