E-2 Visa Medical Examination Guide for English Teachers in Korea

Foreign nationals applying for an E-2 visa to teach English in South Korea are required to undergo a medical examination shortly after arrival. This examination is essential for obtaining the Alien Registration Card (ARC) and fulfilling legal employment requirements.

When & Where to Get the Health Check

  • When: The medical check must be completed within 90 days of arrival in South Korea.
  • Where: You must visit a government-designated hospital or a public health center authorized to conduct foreigner medical examinations. Some employers may provide a list of recommended hospitals. [Download Hospital List]

What Does the Medical Exam Include?

The health screening consists of several key assessments:

✅ 1. General Physical Examination

  • Blood pressure, height, weight, and basic health condition check
  • Vision and hearing tests

✅ 2. Chest X-ray (Tuberculosis Screening)

  • Required to detect tuberculosis (TB)
  • If previously diagnosed with TB, additional testing may be needed

✅ 3. Blood Tests

  • Liver function test
  • Fasting blood sugar level check
  • Syphilis test (VDRL or RPR)

✅ 4. Drug Screening (Narcotics Test)

  • Tests for illegal substances such as:
    Methamphetamine
    Cocaine
    Opiates (heroin, morphine, etc.)
    Cannabinoids (THC/marijuana)

✅ 5. Urinalysis

  • Screens for kidney and urinary tract health issues

[Image by Owen Beard via Unsplash]

 How to Prepare for the Medical Examination

  • Fasting Required: Avoid eating or drinking (except water) for at least 8 hours before the test.
  • Required Documents:
    Passport or ARC
    2 to 5 passport-sized photos
    Medical examination fee (typically ₩70,000 – ₩130,000 KRW)
  • Appointment: Some hospitals require advance reservations. Confirm with your chosen facility.

Important Things to Know

  • Medication Warning: Certain prescription medications can cause false positives in drug tests. If you are taking any medication, consult your doctor before traveling to Korea.
  • Strict Drug Laws: Even small traces of illegal drugs, including marijuana (THC), can lead to immediate termination and legal consequences. South Korea has a zero-tolerance policy for drug use.
  • Processing Time: Results typically take 3-7 days and remain valid for one month from the date of issuance.
  • Keep Extra Copies: You will need to submit copies of your results to:
    Immigration office (for ARC issuance)
    Education office (for teaching registration)
    Your employer

Final Steps After the Medical Exam

✔ Do NOT open the sealed medical report. Opened reports may be rejected by immigration officials.
✔ If any test results are abnormal, you may need additional medical evaluations.
✔ Once approved, proceed with your ARC application at the immigration office.