South Korea•AsiaForeign Language Instructor Visa (E-2)
At a Glance
Processing Time
14-28 days
Application Fee
60,000 KRW
Stay Duration
Up to 2 years
Renewable
Varies
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Not Specified
PR Pathway
Available
This visa can lead to permanent residency — the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Work visa for native English speakers teaching at Korean educational institutions. Restricted to citizens of 7 English-speaking countries.
E-2 visa is the most common work visa for foreign English teachers in South Korea. Restricted to native English speakers from 7 specific countries.
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Requirements
Personal
Education
Bachelor or higher
Excluded Nationalities
Citizens of the following countries are not eligible: Countries outside: US, UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Valid passport
From eligible country, 6+ months validity
Employment contract
From Korean school
Health certificate
From approved medical facility
Background check
Criminal record certificate
Passport photos
Recent photos
Educational documents
High school diploma or equivalent
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Advantages
- Most accessible work visa for English speakers
- Pathway to permanent residency after 5 years
- Can change employers (with restrictions)
- Can bring family members
- Health insurance provided
Considerations
- Restricted to 7 countries
- Must be native English speaker
- Mandatory health check required
- Employment-dependent status
- Wage standards apply
Application Process
Secure teaching position
Employment offer from Korean school or hagwon
Employer application
Employer applies for job seeker approval
Health check
Medical examination at approved clinic
Visa application
At Korean embassy in home country
Visa processing
2-4 weeks
Visa issuance
Teaching visa granted
Application Forms
E-2 Foreign Language Instructor Visa Application
Ready to Apply?
Check your eligibility first to see how well you match this visa