Korean Visa Guide for French Citizens

Can French citizens teach English in Korea?

France is NOT one of the 7 E-2 treaty countries, so French nationals cannot apply for the E-2 English Teacher visa directly. However, French nationals who are native-level English speakers with a degree may explore the E-7 (Specific Activities) language instructor category — though this requires a more complex application and is not guaranteed. French language teaching is a growing area: Korean universities and cultural institutions hire French teachers under E-7 for French language instruction.

How do I apostille French documents for a Korean visa?

France is a Hague Convention member. French documents are apostilled by the Procureur de la République at the Tribunal Judiciaire in the jurisdiction where the document was issued. For a criminal record extract (Bulletin n°3 du casier judiciaire), request it from the Casier Judiciaire National in Nantes, then apostille at the appropriate Tribunal Judiciaire. For degree certificates, apostille through the Rectorat or the Ministry of National Education depending on the institution.

Are Korean and French universities well-connected for student exchanges?

Yes. Many Korean universities (SNU, Yonsei, Korea University, KAIST, Sciences Po Korea partnership) have active exchange agreements with French universities. Campus France (the French agency for international mobility) has specific Korea programs. Tuition at Korean universities for exchange students is often waived or subsidized; living costs in Korea are generally lower than in Paris.