These tips come from my own personal experience and all the mistakes I made. I have taught in South Korea before, but since I left for a year I have to come back and start the process all over as a new teacher. (While I was gone new regulations began so the process was different!)
These are processes for USA applicants applying to a private school (hagwon).
Start the process early. All these documents take a long time.
I started the document process in October for a job that starts in March. I could have the process finished earlier if I didn't make so many mistakes.
- Start the FBI background check early! It can take up to 12 weeks(They will NOT expedite). Mine took 8 weeks.
- DO NOT FORGET TO REQUEST THE SEAL AND SIGNATURE FOR THE PURPOSE OF OBTAINING AN APOSTILLE. Include a note with your application to the FBI.You will not get an apostille without the seal and signature. (I didn't do this and its caused me a lot of stress! I had to send it back to the FBI for the seal and signature which will take 2-3 weeks)
- The apostille for the FBI check has to be done at the US Dept of State. The process takes 15+ days. If you live close enough to go to the office in person that would be the fastest option.
Send your original diplomato the Secretary of State to get an apostille. (Once I sent in the original I got it back within a week. This may vary from state to state. Check with your state for proper procedures)- Make sure you get plenty of ID size (2x2) pictures taken(I'd say 8 might be sufficient)(I got 6 at CVS for $10.00). You will need pictures for lots of things-ARC, medical check, picture ID at school. (I had to send in 4 with my application).
UPDATE: Do not send your original diploma. I never got mine back!!!
talk to local lawyer and see if they will put a notary on the photocopy of your diploma, or your university can provide you notary stamp along with the diploma photocopy. Then the apostille office should authenticate (apostille) the notary.
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