Can I teach English in Korea without a bachelor's degree?

No. A bachelor's degree from a 4-year university is a legal requirement for the E-2 visa. The degree subject doesn't matter, but it must be from an accredited institution.

How long does the E-2 visa last?

Initial E-2 visas are valid for 1 year and can be renewed annually while employed. Maximum stay is typically 5 years total before needing to change visa types.

Do I need to speak Korean to teach English?

No Korean language requirement for E-2 visa. However, learning basic Korean helps with daily life. Some rural positions may prefer teachers with Korean skills.

What if I have a criminal record?

Minor offenses may be acceptable depending on circumstances and time elapsed. Serious crimes like felonies will likely disqualify you. Consult the Korean consulate with your specific situation.

Can my spouse come with me on an E-2 visa?

Spouses can apply for F-3 dependent visas to accompany E-2 holders. They cannot work without obtaining their own work authorization separately.

How to Get a Work Visa for South Korea as an English Teacher

To teach English in South Korea, you need an E-2 visa which requires a bachelor's degree, criminal background check, health check, and job offer from a Korean school. The process takes 6-12 weeks and costs around $200-400 total including document fees.

Get your bachelor's degree apostilled. Your degree must be apostilled by the Secretary of State in the state where your university is located. This costs $10-25 and takes 1-3 weeks. Mail or visit in person with original diploma and apostille request form.
Obtain FBI criminal background check. Request an FBI Identity History Summary Check online at fbi.gov/services/cjis. Costs $18, takes 3-5 business days for electronic delivery. Print on official letterhead paper. This document expires after 6 months.
Get apostille for background check. Send your FBI background check to the US State Department for apostille. Costs $8, takes 2-3 weeks by mail. Must be done within 6 months of receiving the FBI check.
Complete health examination. Get a medical exam from approved physician list on Korean consulate website. Includes chest X-ray, blood tests, and general physical. Costs $150-300. Valid for 3 months only.
Secure job offer and contract. Apply to Korean schools through recruiters like Gone2Korea, Adventure Teaching, or directly to EPIK program. School will send you official contract and visa issuance number once hired.
Submit visa application. Visit Korean consulate with passport, visa application form, photo, apostilled documents, medical exam, and contract. Costs $45 visa fee. Processing takes 3-5 business days.
Complete arrival procedures in Korea. Register at immigration office within 90 days. Get alien registration card (ARC) which costs 30,000 won. Your school will help with this process.

Can I teach English in Korea without a bachelor's degree?: No. A bachelor's degree from a 4-year university is a legal requirement for the E-2 visa. The degree subject doesn't matter, but it must be from an accredited institution.
How long does the E-2 visa last?: Initial E-2 visas are valid for 1 year and can be renewed annually while employed. Maximum stay is typically 5 years total before needing to change visa types.
Do I need to speak Korean to teach English?: No Korean language requirement for E-2 visa. However, learning basic Korean helps with daily life. Some rural positions may prefer teachers with Korean skills.
What if I have a criminal record?: Minor offenses may be acceptable depending on circumstances and time elapsed. Serious crimes like felonies will likely disqualify you. Consult the Korean consulate with your specific situation.
Can my spouse come with me on an E-2 visa?: Spouses can apply for F-3 dependent visas to accompany E-2 holders. They cannot work without obtaining their own work authorization separately.