Teach English Abroad – TEFL Jobs & Salaries

Why Teach English Abroad?

• High Demand: Schools and language centres are constantly hiring TEFL-certified teachers. Many countries have national programmes that recruit year-round.
• Good Salaries: Depending on location and qualifications, you can earn between $1,200 and $4,000 per month. Some jobs also include housing or flight reimbursement.
• Travel and Culture: Teaching gives you a way to live in another country while earning money. You'll get time off to explore, take trips, and meet locals.
• Career Development: If you're new to teaching or switching careers, this experience boosts your confidence, adaptability, and professional profile.

Top Countries for TEFL Jobs

Here are some of the most popular and rewarding destinations to teach English abroad:

• Thailand: Known for its welcoming culture and beautiful locations. TEFL teachers earn around 45,000–70,000 THB/month. Visa support is usually provided. Great for first-time teachers.
• China: With high salaries ($2,000–$3,500/month) and often free accommodation, China remains a popular choice. Contracts typically include bonuses and paid holidays.
• South Korea: Public and private schools offer competitive salaries ($2,200–$2,800/month) along with airfare, housing, and end-of-contract bonuses.
• Vietnam: Demand is rising fast. Teachers earn $1,200–$2,000/month, and the cost of living is low. It’s a lively country with a growing community of English teachers.
• Spain: Many choose Spain for lifestyle reasons. Jobs often come through government programmes or private academies. Salaries range from €1,200–€1,500/month.
• Japan: Competitive market, but solid benefits. The JET Programme and private schools offer stable positions for qualified teachers.

What You Need to Get Started

Getting hired as an English teacher abroad is straightforward if you meet the basic requirements. Here's what most schools expect:

• TEFL Certification: A 120-hour course is the standard minimum. In-person courses with teaching practice are preferred by many employers.
• Bachelor’s Degree: This is a visa requirement in many countries like Thailand, South Korea, and Japan. It can be in any subject.
• English Fluency: Native speakers from the UK, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa have the most options, but fluent non-natives can still find work.
• Clean Background Check: Needed for visa processing and working with children. Some countries require a police clearance certificate.

Do I Need Teaching Experience?

Yes, most entry-level TEFL jobs abroad dorequire some previous teaching experience. That said, a strong TEFL course with real classroom practice can make a big difference. It helps you feel prepared and makes your CV stand out.

If you're new to teaching, look for courses that include observed teaching practice and feedback. This is a great way to build your confidence before starting your job.

Visa and Work Permit Information

Most countries require a legal work visa to teach English. Schools will usually guide you through the process, but you'll need to provide documents like:

• TEFL certificate
• Degree certificate (and transcripts in some cases)
• Passport photos
• Medical check and criminal background check

Each country has different steps. Some require documents to be legalised or apostilled. We recommend checking our Visa & Work Permit Guide to understand the process in Thailand.

How to Find a TEFL Job Abroad

Once you're certified, you can start applying. There are three common ways to find teaching jobs abroad:

• TEFL Job Boards: Sites like Teaching in Bangkok post new jobs every week. Look for clear job descriptions and visa support.
• Recruitment Agencies: Some agencies connect certified teachers to vetted schools. These roles usually come with full support.
• Direct to School: You can also apply directly through school websites or by walking in with your CV if you're already in the country.

Tip: Always speak to someone before accepting a role. Ask about hours, pay, accommodation, and the school environment.

Can I Teach English Abroad Without a Degree?

Yes, in some countries. For example, Cambodia and parts of Latin America don’t require a degree for a work permit. However, most countries do. If you don’t have a degree, you’ll need to focus on countries where a work visa is still possible or consider short-term or volunteer roles while gaining experience.

What Kind of Jobs Are Available?

TEFL jobs abroad vary, but here are the most common types:

• Private Language Schools: Usually focus on speaking and listening skills. Evening and weekend work is common.
• Public Schools: Often more stable with daytime hours and long holidays. Class sizes may be larger.
• International Schools: Higher salaries and strong benefits, but require teaching qualifications or experience.
• Online English Teaching: Some teachers supplement their income by teaching online, especially when living in countries with a low cost of living.

Start Your Teaching Adventure

Teaching English abroad isn’t just about income — it's about gaining new skills, building your confidence, and discovering life outside your comfort zone. If you're looking for a course with full job support and real classroom training, explore our in-person TEFL course in Bangkok.

We’ve helped hundreds of people start their teaching careers across Thailand and beyond. If you’re a recent graduate or planning a career change, there’s a TEFL job waiting for you.