Teaching English in South Korea: E2 Visa vs F4 Visa
If you’re planning on teaching English in South Korea, one of the most important steps is choosing the correct visa. The two most common options for English teachers are the E2 visa and the F4 visa.
Both allow you to work legally, but they offer very different levels of flexibility, requirements and long-term opportunities.
In this guide, we’ll explain the key differences and help you understand which visa applies to your situation.
Why Your Visa Matters When Teaching English Abroad
Your visa determines:
- Where you can work
- How many jobs you can hold
- Your ability to change employers
- Your long-term residency options
- Your level of independence
Choosing the correct visa from the beginning helps prevent delays, legal complications and employment restrictions after arrival.
What Is an E2 Visa?
The E2 visa is the standard work visa for foreign nationals teaching English. Most first time teachers enter the country on this visa.
Who qualifies for an E2 visa?
You must:
- Be a citizen of an approved English speaking country
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, from an accredited university
- Pass a criminal background check
- Meet health screening requirements
- Be sponsored by a Korean employer
Many teachers working in hagwons or public schools through programs like EPIK hold an E2 visa.
The E2 visa is a sponsored employment visa designed specifically for teaching English in South Korea.
Please see our citizenship specific E2 Visa guide to learn more!
Benefits of the E2 visa
- Structured entry into teaching abroad
- Employer support with housing and relocation
- Stable full time employment
- Ideal for first time teachers
Limitations of the E2 visa
- Tied to one employer
- Cannot legally work additional jobs
- Job changes require immigration approval
- Less long term flexibility
What Is an F4 Visa?
The F4 visa, often called the Overseas Korean visa, is available to people of Korean heritage who hold foreign citizenship.
Unlike the E2 visa, this visa is not tied to a single employer and offers significantly more freedom.
Who qualifies for an F4 visa?
Generally, you must:
- Be ethnically Korean or have Korean parentage or ancestry
- Hold citizenship outside Korea
- Provide documentation proving Korean heritage
Eligibility details can vary depending on personal history and documentation. Important: If You Qualify for an F4 Visa, You Must Apply for It
If you are eligible for an F4 visa, immigration expects you to apply under the visa category that reflects your legal status and background.
Applicants who qualify for an F4 visa should not apply for an E2 visa. The F4 visa is the appropriate immigration status for individuals of Korean heritage and provides the correct legal framework for employment.
If you are unsure about your eligibility, confirm with your local Korean Consulate before beginning the visa application process.
Benefits of the F4 Visa
- No employer sponsorship required
- Freedom to work multiple jobs
- Ability to freelance or tutor privately
- Easier job changes
- Greater long term stability
- Broad employment flexibility
Limitations of the F4 visa
- Only available to those with Korean heritage
- Requires documentation verifying eligibility
- You must arrange employment and housing independently
Which Visa Is Right for You?
Choose the E2 visa if you:
- Do not qualify for an F4 visa
- Are teaching abroad for the first time
- Want employer support and structure
Choose the F4 visa if you:
- Have Korean heritage and meet eligibility requirements
- Want maximum employment flexibility
- Plan to live or work long term
If you qualify for an F4 visa, this is the visa you must apply for.
Final Thoughts
Teaching English abroad can be an exciting and life changing opportunity that offers professional growth, cultural immersion and long term international experience.
Understanding the difference between the E2 and F4 visa helps you prepare properly, meet immigration requirements and choose the path that aligns with your goals.
If you want expert guidance on visas, job placement and relocation, professional support can help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
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FAQ: Teaching English Visas
Can I choose an E2 visa if I qualify for an F4 visa?
No. If you are eligible for an F4 visa, you must apply under that visa category. Immigration expects applicants to use the visa that matches their legal status and background.
Do I need a job offer before applying for an E2 visa?
Yes. The E2 visa requires sponsorship from a Korean employer such as a public school or private academy.
Can I change jobs easily on an E2 visa?
Not easily. Changing jobs on an E2 visa typically requires approval from immigration and coordination with your employer. You’ll need to find a new employer to take over your visa sponsorship and obtain a release letter from your current employer.
Can I work multiple teaching jobs with an E2 visa?
No. E2 visa holders are limited to one sponsoring employer.
Do I need a teaching certification to get an E2 or F4 visa?
A teaching certification is not always required for immigration approval, but many employers prefer or require one. TEFL or TESOL certification can improve job options and salary potential. See our recommended TEFL programs here!
How long can I stay on each visa?
Both visas can be renewed if eligibility and requirements continue to be met. The E2 visa is tied to employment contracts, while the F4 visa often allows longer term residency with fewer restrictions.
Useful Resources for Teaching Abroad
Have some questions before you apply? We’ve got you covered! You can always contact us with your questions. Additionally, we’ve put together a wealth of resources to help you along every step of the journey. We are always updating our blog with more useful information so please check back often!