How to Hire Native English Teachers and Guide to E-2 Visa
Hello from Kowork!
Today, we’re going to talk about the E-2 Visa, specifically for language institutes looking to hire foreign native teachers and foreigners who are interested in working as native teachers in Korea.
What is the E-2 Visa?
The E-2 Visa is a visa that allows native teachers to legally teach foreign languages, especially English, in Korea. Once granted this visa, the individual is authorized to teach in language institutes, schools, and other educational institutions.
Who Can Apply for an E-2 Visa?
- Nationality: Only citizens from countries where English is the native language, such as the U.S., Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa, can apply.
- Education: Applicants must have a 4-year university degree or higher.
- Additional Requirements: A criminal background check, a health check, and, ideally, a teaching certificate such as TESOL can strengthen the application.
E-2 Visa Application Process
Applying for an E-2 visa is simpler than it might seem. The general process includes signing a contract with a language institute, preparing necessary documents, and submitting them to the immigration office or consulate.
- Sign a contract with a language institute
- Prepare the necessary documents: Passport, diploma, criminal background check, etc.
- Submit the visa application to the immigration office or consulate
- Once the visa is approved, enter Korea and obtain your Alien Registration Card
Key Documents:
- Copy of passport
- University degree certificate
- Criminal background check
- Health check
- Employment contract with the language institute
Where Can Native Teachers Work?
E-2 visa holders are only allowed to work at specific types of institutions. These include:
- Foreign language institutes
- Educational institutions for grades elementary and above (middle schools, high schools, etc.)
- Language research institutes
- Broadcasting stations or corporate language training departments
- Lifelong learning institutes
- Vocational training institutes
- Other institutions recognized by the immigration office
However, kindergartens or daycare centers are not eligible for E-2 visa holders. To work in these institutions, foreigners need to have a different visa, such as F-2, F-4, F-5, or F-6.
Conclusion
The E-2 visa is an important visa that allows native teachers to legally work in Korea. Both language institutes and teachers need to fully understand the application process to ensure everything goes smoothly. Why not use a platform like Kowork to hire foreign native teachers for your institution? 😊
