Where to TEFL in 2026

Where will you be when the clock strikes midnight, a barrage of fireworks fizz up into the sky, corks are popped, and another new year begins? In most jobs, the answer will be the same year in, year out. But teaching English as a foreign language - an opportunity that can take you anywhere in the world - isn’t like most jobs.

The demand for TEFL is enormous worldwide. If you’ve always seen yourself hopping from country to country, or there’s one particular place you’ve dreamt of visiting, a TEFL certificate can take you there. Maybe 2026 is the year you start teaching English, or perhaps you’re an ambitious teacher who’s already considering the next destination.

In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the most exciting places to teach English this year, from underrated up-and-comers to the biggest TEFL markets on the planet.

Why is TEFL so in demand?

The English language is everywhere, and TEFL teachers make a massive impact. Not only is English the primary language in 75 countries (and taught in hundreds more), but it’s also used as the language of business and global media. There are over 1.5 billion English learners worldwide - for you, this means teaching jobs around the globe.

The standards of English teaching can vary widely from country to country and school to school, but you can rely on consistent demand for TEFL teachers with proper qualifications and key classroom skills . As our TEFL Org Job Centre shows daily, there are roles available everywhere.

Here are some recommendations to get you started on your TEFL journey.

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China

There isn’t a bigger TEFL market than China. From kindergartens to adult learning centres, hundreds of millions of Chinese citizens are highly motivated English learners.

Home to a wide range of teaching opportunities and eager learners, China is an ideal starting point. It’s full of job vacancies, eager students, and salaries that compare well to almost anywhere in the world.

Although TEFL teachers have faced challenges - China banned in-person and online tutoring for students aged 6 to 18 in 2021 - it’s still comfortably the biggest TEFL market on the planet. With around 400 million English learners across the country, qualified teachers can find work from megacities like Beijing to remote rural outposts.

Teacher experience: Ross Thorburn

On our podcast, I Taught English Abroad , TEFL teacher Ross Thorburn told us all about becoming a “flying teacher”, working across China and relocating at a moment’s notice.

Read our guide to Teaching English in China to find out more.

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Japan

Teaching English in Japan is a massively popular choice, and for good reason. Packed with walkable, explorable cities, gorgeous scenery, and varied climates from Honshu to Kyushu, Japan is a great place to teach.

Not only is Japan a desirable location, but it’s also a country with significant demand for English teachers. There’s a well-established culture of TEFL teaching in Japan, partly helped by initiatives such as the Japanese Exchange and Teaching (JET) programme , which places teachers in Japan’s public schools.

With a cheap cost of living (outside major cities) and surprisingly low levels of English proficiency , Japan is an excellent choice for any TEFL teacher.

Teacher experience: Patrick Smith and Celi Reeder

For an inside scoop on teaching English in Japan, watch or listen to our podcast episode with Patrick Smith and Celi Reeder!

Find out how to become an English teacher in Japan by reading our comprehensive guide.

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Spain

Spain , a country of enormous cultural influence and a fascinating history, is another of the world’s most exciting TEFL destinations.

English teaching jobs in Spain can be found from the smallest villages to globally known language businesses in Madrid or Barcelona. The sheer range of jobs reflects the country’s diversity. No two districts are alike, with regions like Catalonia, the Basque Country and Andalusia representing just some of Spain’s unique identities.

Obviously, the hot weather is a plus, as is the lifestyle. But the role of teaching programmes in Spain is another major driver, with popular options including NALCAP , ConversaSpain , Meddeas and BEDA . TEFL in Spain is all about options: whether you choose a teaching programme or navigate the job market yourself, you won’t be short of choices.

Teacher experience: Thomas Kerr

The TEFL Org’s Head of Education, Thomas Kerr , began his teaching career in Spain and has remained there ever since.

Vamos over to our Teaching English in Spain guide to find out more.

Colombia

In previous years, Colombia might not have been described as a “tourist-friendly” destination. Today, it’s a country celebrated for its literature, art, and warm welcome, with cities like Bogotá and Medellín becoming premier destinations in Latin America.

The rapid growth of Colombia’s telecommunications market has had a significant impact on English language learning. In telecommunications, English is a highly valued asset, which can lead to higher salaries and travel opportunities, so expect a large number of adult learners. 

English is taught in schools across the country, and although proficiency levels aren’t fantastic , there’s real demand. This is especially true in the bigger cities, where schools tend to have better funding and facilities. 

Discover more about teaching English in Colombia with our comprehensive guide.

Teaching online

If you’re looking for a career with flexibility and options, teaching English online is hard to beat. If you’ve got the right tech, a recognised, accredited TEFL certificate and a passion for teaching English, you can start by signing up for a platform, applying directly to online teaching companies, or even going solo and finding online learners by yourself.

Before you launch into online English teaching, though, it’s essential to understand the industry. Take a look at different teachers on a range of platforms and companies - this way, you can find out how much you should charge, what kind of niche areas are underserved, and how TEFL teachers market themselves online . 

Tip : Knowing how to network as a TEFL teacher is crucial both online and in person. Utilise social media, online forums, and industry events to make connections and stay current with the industry.

Find out how to become an English teacher online by reading our thorough guide!

Where will TEFL take you?

These are just a handful of the fantastic places TEFL can take you, either by hopping on a plane and jetsetting around the world or by logging into your computer. 

The perfect TEFL destination is the one that you choose, whether you’ve always dreamed of moving there, you’ve stumbled across it after travelling, or it just so happens to be your home office. With TEFL, there’s so much choice, and you never need to stay in one place for too long. After all, there’s demand for English teaching everywhere.

Your next TEFL job could be anywhere in the world - how exciting is that ?

Eager to travel and earn? Read our comprehensive new TEFL Salary Guide!