Best Country For Teachers

If you have already graduated from one of our TEFL certification courses and have yet to decide on where you would like to teach, or you are thinking about signing up for a course and are looking for an insight into the most popular teaching destinations, then the following guides might provide some welcome inspiration. Below you will find dozens of countries from all corners of the world where there are plenty of good opportunities for teaching EFL. Click on the countries that interest you to access a wide range of travel tips, country facts and other useful information. Living and Teaching English in France - Habits, Customs & Curiosities Living and Teaching English in Spain - Habits, Customs & Curiosities Want to see more infographics on TESOL and TEFL? Check...  [Read more]

  Teaching English in South Korea has become increasingly popular over the last decade and it is no secret that the country offers some of the best salaries for foreign teachers to be found anywhere in the world. English teachers in Korea can expect to earn between $1,500 and $3,000 US per month and it is certainly possible to save up to half of this depending on your lifestyle. On top of the basic salary you can also expect other benefits such as paid airfares, free housing and an end of contract bonus. Unsurprisingly, the high salaries and good benefits on offer have led to a high level of competition for the best jobs. If you have any teaching qualifications and experience in the classroom, you will find you have the pick of the available jobs. However, thanks to a continually...  [Read more]

Asia is without doubt the most popular region for teaching English abroad and there are many different countries to choose from, each offering its own attractions. South Korea has many reasons for attracting teachers from all over the world and one of the most important is the huge number of potential jobs available all over the country. As well as an abundance of jobs, Korea is also a highly developed country with excellent infrastructure, a relatively low cost of living, a low rate of crime, and some of the best average salaries in the region. Many jobs come with extra benefits such as paid accommodation and airfares, which means that saving a good chunk of your income is not only possible, but actually the norm. However, to help you decide which part of the country would be best...  [Read more]

Qatar is a country that has blossomed from a largely unknown stretch of desert into a popular international destination in just a few decades. This rapid growth has attracted large numbers of foreign workers who now make up around 90% of the population. Qatar is a safe, modern, comfortable place to live and work which ensures it is increasingly popular with ESL teachers. As is the norm throughout much of the Middle East, Qatar offers teachers the chance to earn a very competitive salary. Tax-free monthly earnings of around $2,000 to $4,000 are typical, depending on your previous classroom experience and your teaching qualifications. Most of the best jobs will also include a healthy benefit package that includes return flights from your home country, free housing, and full medical...  [Read more]

With a great location right in the heart of Central Europe, Slovakia is an up-and-coming destination for TESOL certified teachers. Although it is not yet on the radar of many teachers coming to work in Europe, this rapidly modernising country will not be overlooked for much longer. Despite recent leaps forward, Slovakia has a long history which has left its mark in the form of ancient castles, medieval fortresses, and a rich cultural heritage that is evident throughout the country. The demand for foreign teachers has soared since joining the EU, so if you want plenty of jobs to choose from in a safe and peaceful country, Slovakia might be for you. Although teaching jobs are widespread, the average salary is not large by European standards. However, as long as you have a TESOL...  [Read more]

A large number of people every year choose Europe as their destination for teaching English abroad, the majority from North America. However, for many it can be quite daunting as very few employers look to hire their teachers in advance. Unlike in some other regions such as Asia and the Middle East, foreign teachers generally have to fly into their country of choice and then start looking for a teaching job by contacting potential employers in person. Although this approach works fine for most teachers, there are a few other options for those who want a job lined up in advance. Russia has seen a strong rise in demand for TESOL qualified teachers in recent years and average salaries have risen accordingly. It is also becoming more popular with teachers as a large proportion of...  [Read more]

If you live in the Northern Hemisphere it is likely that you have endured many years of cold, dark winters. If you would like the opportunity to experience living in a climate that is warm all year round, why not complete a TESOL certification course and start a new life living and working as an English teacher in the exotic tropical zone? Thousands of people every year take advantage of this opportunity and very few end up regretting their decision. All you need to do is decide which tropical country is right for you. Costa Rica is small in size, but it has a very large market for TESOL qualified teachers. Most teaching jobs are found in private language centers that are located in most of the larger towns and cities. Private tutoring of English students is also a popular way to...  [Read more]

The market for qualified ESL teachers around the world is huge. Right across Europe, Asia, Latin America and even Africa, there are dozens of countries to consider. However, if you want to teach ESL in an English-speaking country, you might find things a little more tricky. Although there is typically a strong demand for ESL teachers in most English-speaking countries, the required amount of teachers can normally be recruited from within that country's own population. Another common problem for foreign teachers looking to work in an English speaking country is getting hold of the necessary work permits and visas. However, there are always exceptions to the rule. Some teachers acquire the right to work in another English-speaking country via marriage to a foreign national, or as a...  [Read more]

There are many reasons why the Czech Republic is a very popular destination for teaching English abroad including its warm and friendly people, a fascinating cultural heritage, and some of the best beer in the world. One other crucial factor for many teachers is that it is possible for non-EU citizens to obtain a long-term work visa, which is not always the case in some other parts of Europe. The most common method is to enter the Czech Republic on a standard 90 day tourist visa and then start the application process from within the country. Most teachers apply for a Zivnostensky List (Zivno), which is essentially a business license that permits you to work for any school you choose. The application can be made at a government zivnostensky office in person or you can use a local...  [Read more]

Although Greece has been popular with ESL teachers for many years, the recent economic downturn has had a significant impact on the number of jobs available. Despite this, teachers continue to be drawn to the country due to the great climate, stunning beaches, and the general culture. As there are less jobs available than in the past, employers can afford to be a little more picky when it comes to the hiring process. Also, recent changes to immigration laws have made it harder for non-EU citizens to obtain the necessary work visa. As a consequence of these factors, many employers choose to only hire teachers with an EU passport. The basic requirements expected when applying for most teaching jobs are a university degree and a TESOL qualification. Greece has a large network of...  [Read more]

Every year thousands of foreign ESL teachers head to Japan as jobs are widespread in towns and cities across the country. The average salary is enough to live well and still save and the cultural and social aspects of the country are unlike anywhere else on Earth. If you have already decided that Japan is for you, it might not be quite so easy to decide on exactly which part of it to call home. Every city will have plenty of potential options and quieter areas will also offer a change from the normal hectic pace of city life. Although it would be hard to make a bad choice of destination in Japan, we recommend the following options based on the local job market and the experiences of our previous course graduates. It is no surprise that Japan’s largest urban area is at the top of...  [Read more]

When considering the best countries for TESOL teachers who enjoy cold climates, several factors come into play. It’s essential to think about the demand for English teachers, the cost of living, the ease of obtaining a work visa, and the overall quality of life in the country. Here are some of the top countries that meet these criteria and offer a colder climate for TESOL teachers: South Korea is a popular destination for TESOL teachers due to its high demand for English language education. With four distinct seasons, including cold winters, it appeals to those who enjoy colder climates. The cost of living is relatively affordable, and many schools provide benefits such as housing and airfare. Obtaining a work visa is straightforward for qualified teachers. Russia offers a unique...  [Read more]

If you have researched teaching English abroad, you might have found stories suggesting that it is impossible for US citizens to find ESL teaching jobs in Europe. However, this is not the case as a high demand for foreign teachers in many countries means there are plenty of great opportunities for American teachers in Europe. Language schools in many areas are always on the lookout for native English speaking Americans with a TESOL qualification to fill their vacant positions. At anytime you will find thousands of US citizens teaching in major European cities such as Rome, Madrid, Berlin, Moscow, and Prague. In many Western European countries there is a preference for British English in some schools and excessive bureaucracy can also be responsible for restrictions on US born...  [Read more]

Whether you are planning a gap year abroad or looking for something more permanent, teaching English in Europe is certainly an idea that is well worth exploring. Every year thousands of ordinary people just like you pack their bags and head off to this extraordinary continent in search of fun, adventure, and a cultural experience that will stay with them for life. As long as you have a solid understanding of the English language you are eligible, although most employers will expect you to also complete a TESOL certification course before you start teaching. Across the continent there are many countries to choose from, all which have their own benefits to offer. However, to give you a head start we have put together the following list of countries that we think are the best for...  [Read more]

ITTT has a highly-respected in-class TESOL course that is available in many different locations around the world. To help you decide which location is best for you we have given a brief overview of our options in each of the major regions below. We would recommend doing your own thorough research in terms of visas and other regulations required for you to attend a four-week training course in another country. As Asia contains the largest markets for English language teachers, there are plenty of centers to choose from throughout the region. Despite recent changes that have taken place in China, there are still some locations to choose from there. Other popular Asian options are Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Nepal, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Our...  [Read more]

Hong Kong is a traditional favorite with many teachers as it is a modern, vibrant place where English is commonly used and most Western style comforts are readily available. The downside of its popularity is that the competition for the best positions is generally very strong. To give yourself the best chance of success, there are a few things you should know. Although there have been government guidelines in place for many years regarding foreign teachers, these have only recently begun to be properly enforced. The result of this is that it is now very difficult for anyone without a university degree and two years teaching experience and/or a TESOL qualification to find a legitimate job. On top of these basic restrictions, each employer is free to set their own requirements for jobs...  [Read more]

  The popularity of China as a destination for English language teachers has steadily increased in recent years, and it is now right at the top of the list with an estimated 100,000 foreign teachers working in the country each year. As a result of an extraordinary economic boom, Chinese parents are more willing than ever to spend thousands of dollars on their children's English education to give them the best chance of success in the future. With over 300 million people learning English across the country, China's insatiable demand for English language teachers looks set to continue. As there are often more job opportunities than there are teachers to fill them, schools are willing to offer very good salaries and other benefits to attract teachers. Salaries vary depending on the...  [Read more]

As it is the largest country in Latin America, it is no surprise that Brazil offers plenty of potential for TESOL qualified teachers. Due to a fast growing tourist industry and a booming economy, Brazil has a strong demand for ESL teachers in many areas. For teachers, the country has many attractions including a warm climate, stunning landscapes, exotic wildlife, a colorful social scene, and some of the best beaches in the world. The relaxed way of life is more likely to attract foreign teachers to Brazil than the average monthly salary of around $800 to $1,500. Although you are not likely to be able to save a great deal of your income, teachers should still earn enough to live a comfortable life away from the classroom. In general, teachers in Brazil are more often paid by the hour...  [Read more]

  Ecuador has seen a number of empires come and go in its history from the Inca to the Spanish and this history makes it one of the most fascinating countries in South America to explore the cultural heritage of this region. The capital, Quito is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site due to its large and well-preserved historic center with some of the best examples of colonial architecture in Latin America. It is also a country rich with flora and fauna, home to thousands of different species of plants, insects, birds and other animals. It is the only country in the world to implement the Rights of Nature in its constitution. The Galápagos Islands are probably its most famous feature but there is much more to see. The city of Baños de Agua Santa is on the western foothills of the...  [Read more]

Thailand is one of the undisputed top destinations in Southeast Asia for ESL teachers. Jobs are relatively easy to find in many areas of the country, although the average salary is not as high as in several other countries across Asia. However, many teachers still flock to Thailand to enjoy the laid back lifestyle, vibrant culture, and extensive entertainment options. In years gone by it was common for teachers to work in Thailand without an official work permit, however, things have moved on and you will now need to meet the set requirements if you want to earn a good income. The main requirement for gaining a work permit is a university degree in any subject. A TESOL qualification is not officially required, although without one you may struggle to find a job with a reputable...  [Read more]