Requirements for Common Visa Types | Korea Visa Guide

Visa Guide (1/9) | Embark Recruiting
Published Sep 4, 2025

Visa Guide (1/9)

 

Visa Requirements for Teaching English in Korea

To work as a native English teacher in Korea, teachers must hold the appropriate visa. Most teachers qualify under the E-2 (Long-term Visa to teach a Foreign Language) Visa. If you are teaching English at a langauge academy or a non-EPIK private or public school, you will have to apply for the E-2-1 Visa.

 

Note: Even if you are already in Korea, you must switch to an E-2 visa to teach unless you already hold the proper visa type to teach in Korea. (For instance, D-2, D-4 holders CANNOT teach FULL-TIME.)

 

Visa Type Applicable Law(s) Workplace Requirements  
E-2-1 (Foreign Language Instructor) * Immigration Act

*Act on Establishment and Operation of Private Teaching Institutes and Extracurricular Lessons (Private Teaching Institutes Act)		 *Language Academy

*Public/Private School

*International School (limited to foreign language teaching), etc.

CANNOT work:
* Daycare centers/ Kindergartens		 Citizenship: Must be a citizen of one of the following 7 countries:
*
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As former native English teachers in Korea, we know exactly what it’s like to navigate teaching abroad—the excitement, the challenges, and everything in between. That’s why we’re committed to increasing transparency in schools, protecting teachers’ rights, and helping improve Korea’s ESL teaching industry. At Embark Recruiting, we provide full support to help you succeed, whether it’s finding a reputable school, understanding your contract, or adjusting to life in Korea. Our blog is your go-to resource for guidance, tips, and insider knowledge every step of the way.

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