How do I get a job teaching English in Vietnam?
The Southeast Asia region continues to boom in terms of demand for foreign ESL teachers and Vietnam is no exception. In recent times the salaries being offered have begun to improve as schools look to attract more teachers to the country. Within just a few years, Vietnam is likely to become one of the most popular teaching destinations in the region.
What are the requirements for teaching English in Vietnam?
Official work permits for teachers in Vietnam are restricted to native English speakers who have a bachelor?s degree. It is also common for individual employers to insist on teachers having a TESOL certificate of at least 120-hours duration. Classroom experience might also be required when applying for jobs at the very top end of the pay scale, although these are small in number. Often you can bypass this requirement if you conduct a good interview.
Who are the main employers of English teachers in Vietnam?
Private language schools employ the majority of foreign teachers in Vietnam. These can be found in large numbers in many parts of the country, although the largest number are in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Many of these schools provide general English classes for adults or young learners, while some cater for more specialist needs such as test preparation, Business English, or English for Tourism. English-medium universities and public schools are another option for teachers with previous experience, although these jobs are small in number and high in competition. Private tutoring is another popular option, particularly as a way of topping up the salary from a main job.
What are the visa requirements for teaching English in Vietnam?
You might well be told by some schools in Vietnam that it is OK to teach with only a tourist visa in your passport. The truth is that this is completely illegal and could leave you vulnerable to fines or deportation. In order to work legally in any school you need to be in possession of a business visa and a work permit. Your employer should offer to arrange these for you at the interview stage of the recruitment process. As most jobs are filled from within the country, it is common practice to arrive in Vietnam on a tourist visa and then apply for the necessary visa and work permit once you have been offered a job.
What is the best way to apply for English teaching jobs in Vietnam?
The most common approach is to simply fly into the country and start applying for as many jobs as you can find in your chosen area. This gives you the opportunity to get a feel for your surroundings and the various schools before you sign a contract. It is worth noting that this approach will require you to bring all the necessary documents with you, such as your TESOL certificate, university diploma and criminal background check. You should also check the latest visa requirements with a Vietnamese embassy or consulate before leaving home.
When is the best time to apply for English teaching Jobs in Vietnam?
There are no set semesters in private language schools so they can be looking for new teachers at any time of the year. By doing some research before departure it might be possible to arrange a webcam interview, however, the majority of schools prefer an in person interview on the premises. If you qualify for public school or university jobs, the school year begins in August or September. The application process for this type of position usually begins up to three months in advance of the start date.
