To teach English in Korea you will need to get an FBI issued criminal background check. You will need this for your E 2 visa. These can take quite a bit of time. It took two months for me. For others I have heard it can take three or more. This contains links to the U.S FBI site. So if you are not a US citizen then I imagine you could Google the appropriate authorities in your country.
Stuff is always changing too. Back in 2007 you didn't need a CBC. Then in 2008 some foreign teacher molested a student which started the whole CBC thing, but a state level one was o.k. Then in 2010 or 11 you needed an FBI issued one with an apostille.
1. Get Fingerprints.
Go to your local police station and request fingerprints. I went to the state police. I made an appointment and took my ID. Tell them that you need it to teach abroad and they will be sent to the FBI. It should cost around $10.00. Make sure that they are quality fingerprints. I got digital ones. You only need one, but just make sure that they are clear. Inquire with them on whether you will need a fingerprint card or not.
2. Criminal Background Check Application
You'll need to fill out an application form for the FBI check here.
3. Cover Letter
Then you will need to write a cover letter to be included. In it be sure to state the date, your name, email, phone number and mailing address. And you can say:
(Date)
Dear Sir or Madame:
I am planning on teaching English in Korea, so therefore I am requesting an FBI background check. Please include with the background check an FBI seal and signature from a division officer. This document will be sent next to the US State Department for a Federal Apostille.
Sincerely,
- (your name)
- (email)
- (phone)
- (address)
4. Payment for Criminal Background Check
Send those fingerprints, a money order for $18.00, a cover letter, a completed application, and return postage on an additional envelope to the FBI.
US citizens send them here:
FBI CJIS Division – Record Request 1000 Custer Hollow Road
Clarksburg, WV 26306
5. Application Form to Apostille the Criminal Background Check
After you get your CBC you'll need to send it to the Department of State (Authentications). You will need to fill out an application which requires you to download a certain software (it doesn't work with Mac).
6. Cover Letter for Apostille
Write another cover letter like so:
(Date)
Dear Sir or Madame:
I am planning on teaching English in Korea, so therefore I am requesting a federal apostille with the criminal background check.
Sincerely,
- (your name)
- (email)
- (phone)
- (address)
7. Payment for Apostilled CBC
Make out a money order to the "US Department of State" for $8.00 and send the cover letter, form, money order, and CBC to:
U.S. Department of State Authentications Office 518 23rd Street NW SA-1Columbia Plaza Washington, DC 20520
That should do it. You'll also need to apostille your diploma.