E2 Visa Instructions for Australia

Step-by-step guide on how Australians can obtain an E2 Visa to teach English in South Korea. Learn about required documents, visa processing, and embassy details.

Introduction

If you have decided to teach English in South Korea, congratulations! This is an exciting journey, and we are here to help you navigate the E2 visa application process. Whether you are still researching or have already secured a job, this guide will provide you with all the necessary steps to obtain your E2 Visa from Australia.

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

The first step in applying for your E2 Visa is collecting and authenticating essential documents. Below is a detailed breakdown of what you need and how to prepare them.

1.1 University Degree

• Must be a four-year Bachelor’s degree (minimum) from an accredited university.

• Obtain a verified copy from your university’s central student administrator office.

• Have the verified photocopy notarized by a notary public.

• Apostille the notarized copy through the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT).

1.2 Criminal Record Check

• Must be issued within six months of application.

• Obtain a National Police Check through the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

• Apostille the document through DFAT.

1.3 Health Statement

• Fill out the Korean government’s health questionnaire.

• Once in Korea, you will undergo a medical exam, including tests for narcotics, tuberculosis, and HIV.

• Important: Avoid drug use as Korea has strict laws, and any violations can result in visa revocation.

1.4 Passport Photocopy

• Provide a clear photocopy of your passport’s information page.

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months with at least 2 empty pages.

1.5 Resume

• Print and submit a detailed resume.

1.6 Signed Copy of School Contract

• The contract will be emailed to you upon job acceptance.

1.7 Passport-Sized Photos

• Submit five (5) passport-sized photos (taken within the last six months).

• Keep an extra one for later steps in the visa process.
  

Step 2: Send Documents to Korea (Visa Reservation Number)

Once you have gathered and notarized all necessary documents, you must send them to your employer in South Korea.

Checklist for Sending Documents

• Apostilled copy of your degree

• Apostilled criminal record check

• Health statement

• Photocopy of passport

• Resume

• Signed school contract

• Two passport-sized photos

Send your documents via FedEx, DHL, or another trackable courier service. Keep a copy of the tracking number for reference.

Your school will submit these documents to the Korean Ministry of Justice and Immigration. Within 7-12 business days, they will issue a Visa Issuance Number (also called a Visa Reservation Number). This number is required for the next step.

Step 3: Apply at the Korean Consulate in Australia

With your Visa Issuance Number in hand, you can now submit your visa application to the Korean consulate in your jurisdiction.

Required Documents for E2 Visa Application

• Completed E2 Visa Application Form

• Passport (valid for 6+ months with at least 2 blank pages)

• Passport-sized photo (2x2 inches)

• Visa Issuance Number

• Visa fee (Check with your consulate for exact fees and payment methods)

Each consulate has different processing times, ranging from one hour to five days. If applying in person, confirm your pickup date. If mailing your application, follow up with the consulate to ensure it was received.

Korean Embassy & Consulate Locations in Australia

Sydney (New South Wales, Queensland, Northern Territory)

• Address: Level 10, 44 Market Street, Sydney, NSW 2000

• Phone: +61(0)2-9210-0234

Melbourne (Victoria)

• Address: Level 10, 636 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3004

• Phone: +61-3-9533-3800

Canberra (Canberra, Adelaide, Perth, Tasmania)

• Address: 113 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, ACT 2600

• Phone: +61(2)-6270-4100
  

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get an E2 Visa in Australia?

The entire process, from collecting documents to visa approval, can take 4-8 weeks. Processing times vary based on consulate location and personal circumstances.

2. Do I need to visit the Korean consulate in person?

It depends on the consulate. Some allow applications via mail, while others require in-person submission. Always check with your local consulate.

3. Can I work on a tourist visa while waiting for my E2 visa?

No. Teaching on a tourist visa is illegal in Korea. You must obtain your E2 Visa before starting work.

4. What if my visa is delayed?

Delays can occur due to missing documents or backlog. Contact your employer and consulate to check the status of your application.

5. Can I apply for an E2 Visa if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the offense. Minor offenses may not disqualify you, but drug or violent crimes will likely result in visa rejection.

Conclusion

Obtaining an E2 Visa from Australia is a structured but manageable process. By following these steps and ensuring your documents are complete, you can secure your visa smoothly. Once approved, you are all set to embark on your exciting journey to South Korea!

For more information and job opportunities, visit our website and start your application today!