E2 Visa Instructions for New Zealand

You have decided to teach in South Korea – congratulations! We are here for you every step of the way as you embark on this exciting journey. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of obtaining your E2 Visa from New Zealand.

And hey! If you haven’t applied for a teaching job in Korea yet and you’re just doing your research, take a moment to fill out our quick online application. It’s free, only takes a minute, and connects you directly with hiring directors at top schools. We’ll guide you through every step, saving you time and stress.

Step 1: Gather and Authenticate Your Documents

Before proceeding to Step 2, you need to collect and authenticate the following documents:

1.1 University Degree

• A four-year Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in any field from an accredited university.

• Take the degree to a notary public. The lawyer will make and notarize a photocopy.

• Submit the notarized photocopy to the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) for an apostille.

1.2 Criminal Record Check

• Your record must be issued within 6 months of visa processing.

• Request a criminal record check from the Ministry of Justice (Criminal Records Unit). It’s free and takes approximately 20 working days.

• If unsigned by the issuing officer, get it notarized. If signed, skip to apostille.

• Apostille the final version through the DIA.

1.3 Health Statement

• A simple self-report questionnaire from the Korean government.

• A full health check, including drug screening, HIV, TB, and other tests, will be done in Korea.

• Reminder: Drug use, including marijuana, is a serious criminal offense in Korea.

1.4 Passport Photocopy

• Photocopy the information page of your passport.

• Ensure it has at least 6 months of validity and 2 blank pages.

1.5 Resume

• Print and include a copy of your current resume.

1.6 Signed School Contract

• Provided via email once you and the school agree.

1.7 Five Passport-Sized Photos

• Standard passport photos taken within the last 6 months.

• One additional photo will be required in Step 3.
  

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

Required Documents Checklist:

• Notarized degree with apostille

• National Criminal Record Check with apostille

• Health check statement

• Passport information page copy

• Resume

• Signed school contract

• Two passport-sized photos

Send your documents via FedEx or another tracked international courier. Retain the tracking number and send it to Footprints Recruiting. Your school in Korea will submit your documents to the Ministry of Justice and Immigration to obtain your Visa Issuance Number (aka Confirmation of Visa Issuance Number).

• Format Example: UJBO 08007392 (4 letters + 8 digits)

• Processing Time: 7-12 business days

Once issued, the school will email you the number to use in the next step.

Step 3: Submit Your Application to the Korean Consulate

Once you receive your Visa Issuance Number, submit your visa application to the Korean Consulate in your jurisdiction.

Required Documents:

• Completed E2 Visa Application Form

• Passport (valid for 6+ months, with 2 blank pages, and signed)

• One passport photo (2”x2”)

• Confirmation of Visa Issuance Number

• Visa application fee (confirm exact amount and payment method with your consulate)

Contact your consulate to confirm their application process and processing time. Times vary by location (1 hour to 5 days).

Korean Consulate in New Zealand

Korean Consulate Auckland

Jurisdiction: Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Northland, and Gisborne Address: Level 12, Tower 1, 205 Queen Street, Auckland Central, New ZealandPhone: (09) 379-0818