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Best Countries to Teach English Abroad

Best Countries to Teach English Abroad

There’s a TEFL destination for every English teacher. What’s yours?

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Completing a TEFL course opens the door to exciting opportunities around the world. English teachers are in demand globally, so the big question is: where do you want to go?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Maybe you’re drawn to vibrant, multicultural cities or desperate for new scenery. Or, you want new cultural experiences, high salaries and job progression. Whatever your motivations are, there’s a TEFL destination to suit you.

To help you choose, we’ve put together a list of countries where you can teach English abroad. You’ll get the lowdown on:

  • What makes each country stand out
  • Salary expectations and perks
  • Lifestyle and cultural highlights

Whether you’re looking for beaches, big cities, or something different, this guide will help you find your ideal TEFL fit.

Some common requirements for teaching English abroad 

What do you need on your CV to teach English abroad? Here are the most common requirements for TEFL jobs overseas:

TEFL Certificate

To teach English abroad, you’ll need a TEFL certificate. The industry standard is a 120-hour course, and it meets the requirements for most teaching jobs worldwide.

While CELTA was once the gold standard, employers today widely accept accredited TEFL qualifications – especially from well-established providers. What matters most is that your certificate is recognised, comprehensive, and properly accredited.

Visa

You’ll need the correct visa to teach legally in another country, and the process can vary greatly depending on where you’re going.

Some countries require you to secure a job offer before you can apply for a visa. Others have strict rules around qualifications, age limits, or proof of funds. Sometimes, teaching programmes may sponsor you on a student visa, making things easier - especially if you're just starting.

Whatever the case, make sure you understand which visa you need before moving.

Degree

Yes, it’s possible to teach English abroad without a degree. Many countries hire TEFL-qualified teachers without a bachelor’s degree, especially for roles in private language schools or tutoring.

That said, requirements can vary. For example, a degree is essential for visa purposes in some destinations and is sometimes necessary for teaching programmes. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree for higher-paid roles in some locations.

Every country and every employer is different. Before applying, check the qualifications you need for the job and the correct visa route.

English fluency

You don’t need to be a native English speaker to be a TEFL teacher, but you do need to be fluent and confident in the language.

Some job ads ask for ‘native speakers’, usually people raised in English-speaking countries. However, many schools are happy to hire non-native English speakers.

Employers often look for:

  • An IELTS or TOEFL qualification, or
  • A degree from an English-speaking university

If you’re passionate about teaching and can communicate clearly, there are opportunities, regardless of your first language.

Top countries for high salaries and savings 

If your motivation is earning a great living, here are some top TEFL destinations for salaries and benefits!

South Korea

With stunning mountain landscapes, huge cities, and a pop culture scene loved worldwide, South Korea is one of the most popular TEFL destinations.

The demand for English teachers is high, and if you’re TEFL qualified, you’ll find plenty of opportunities and the chance to earn an excellent salary and benefits package.

South Korea’s strong educational system includes public programmes like EPIK, and a huge network of private language academies known as hagwons.

Salary and perks

English teachers in South Korea typically earn between 2 million and 2.5 million KRW per month (£1,280 - £1,600 / $1,670 - $2,000). Teaching jobs often include free accommodation, flights, contract completion, and performance bonuses.

Lifestyle 

Your lifestyle in South Korea depends on where you’re based. Cities like Seoul or Busan feel completely different to teaching in a quieter countryside town. Life in South Korea is full of variety, which is a big part of its appeal.

South Korea is home to some of the continent’s most appealing cuisine, friendly communities, a thriving tech culture, and access to everything from traditional markets to K-pop concerts.

China

China employs more TEFL teachers than any other country. There are jobs and eager English learners everywhere.

Teaching jobs are available at every level, from language schools and public education to private tutoring and universities. Whether you're just starting or bringing years of experience to the classroom, China is a great place to go.

Salary and perks

English teachers in China typically earn between 9,000 and 18,000 RMB (£1,000 – £2,000 / $1,300 – $2,575). 

Jobs in the private sector typically include perks like free accommodation or a housing allowance, flight refunds and paid holidays. State teachers can receive up to 11 weeks of paid holidays and other benefits, including medical insurance.

Lifestyle

Here’s a guarantee: no two TEFL teachers in China will have the same journey. You’ll find huge cities with thriving international communities and fast-paced lifestyles, or you might choose a smaller town where life moves more slowly. Wherever you go, China offers something genuinely different.

United Arab Emirates

The UAE pays some of the highest wages anywhere, which is unsurprising. After all, the United Arab Emirates is an economic powerhouse that does business with many English-speaking countries. ESL teachers are in demand, but their English proficiency isn't excellent.

Salary and perks

TEFL-certified, highly qualified English teachers can earn anything from AED 7,677 to 19,191 (£1,600 - £4,000/$2,040 - $5,110) per month, based on their experience and where they work. 

The benefits of ESL teaching in the UAE are incredible: in addition to a tax-free salary, expect health insurance, accommodation, flights, performance bonuses, signing bonuses, and other perks.

Lifestyle

Moving to the UAE can be quite an adjustment if you aren't used to life in the Middle East. Cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai are modern, with various dining, leisure and shopping opportunities. However, the cultural differences outside these cities are dramatic, and not everyone can teach in the UAE.

Taiwan 

Anyone with a TEFL certificate, a degree and a taste for something different should try Taiwan. A truly welcoming destination for TEFL teachers, Taiwan has some of the best salaries in the world, and an English teaching scene that compares remarkably well with some of the world's most proficient nations.

Salary and perks

English teachers in Taiwan can expect to earn an average of TWD 72,436 per month (£1,725 / $2,220). 

In Taiwan, it is normal to receive help finding accommodation, flight reimbursement, bonuses (performance or seasonal), health insurance, Mandarin classes, and even professional development opportunities.

Lifestyle

Taiwan is small but full of culture, beauty, and opportunity. Most teachers work in Taipei or Kaohsiung, a stone’s throw from beaches, mountains, and exciting night markets. With a low cost of living, you can enjoy all Taiwan has to offer and save money!

Japan

Japan offers a reliable job market and strong demand across well-funded schools and private language centres. Whether you want big city life or peace in smaller towns, plenty of opportunities and a rich culture make every day in the classroom feel like something new.

Salary and perks

When you teach ESL abroad in Japan, you can expect to earn around JPY 258,542 - 264,319 (£1,268 - £1,296 / $1,649 – $1,676). TEFL teachers in Japan often receive benefits like accommodation and transport subsidies.

Lifestyle

The cost of living might be higher in Japan than in other Asian countries, but you get your money's worth. Public infrastructure is typically excellent, especially for travel. You can zip around Japan on bullet trains, take skiing holidays, enjoy high-tech gaming and even relax at an Onsen - that's just in a day.

Download our teaching English in Asia guide

Popular destinations for culture and travel

If you’re looking for culture and adventure, there are plenty of TEFL destinations where you can find both - and more. Here are our picks:

Thailand

Thailand, the ‘Land of Smiles’, isn’t just a popular tourist destination. It’s also a great place to teach English as a foreign language. Proficiency is low, but jobs are widely available, especially in schools and adult learning centres.

Salary and perks

Teachers typically earn an average of around 42,667 THB per month (£914 / $1,177). Positions in private or international schools can include accommodation and travel allowances. 

Culture

Thailand, a country teeming with culture and natural beauty, has everything. Between the capital, Bangkok, temples in Chiang Mai, Songkran festival and the various southern islands, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Vietnam

One of the best countries to teach in on a budget, Vietnam has a low cost of living but plenty of jobs, a great music and arts scene, and gorgeous landscapes.

Salary and Perks

Teachers can earn an average of VND 448,180,00 (£1,373 / $1,766) monthly. Employers in Vietnam usually help English teachers find accommodation and provide support with work permits. 

Culture

To outsiders, Vietnam can be incredibly surprising. Though it’s not as culturally influential as South Korea, Vietnamese street fashion, food, and art are among the best in Asia. Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh are iconic, with French, Chinese, and local influences combining in a heady cultural blend.

Spain

One of the most popular destinations worldwide, Spain offers cultural diversity, fantastic weather, and an attractive pace of life. It is a cool destination for new and experienced English teachers, and there are many jobs. No two cities are alike, which only broadens Spain’s appeal.

Salary and perks

In permanent roles, the salary ranges from €1,424 per month (£1,201 / $1,546). Some teaching programmes, such as Meddeas and NALCAP, offer free accommodation and a monthly stipend.

Culture

Spain is one of the world's most fun places to live. The Spanish calendar is packed with festivals, from La Tomatina to Primavera, and broader Spanish culture is relaxed and friendly. Spain is a cultural treat, full of culturally distinct provinces, so you’ll find something new and surprising everywhere you look.

Morocco

Morocco blends European, Middle Eastern, and African influences, making it one of the most interesting cultural TEFL destinations.

Salary and perks

English teaching salaries in Morocco amply cover the cost of living. Typically, teachers earn about 4,600 - 9,500 MAD (£410 - £820/$500 - $1,000). 

Teaching contracts usually don’t come with huge bonuses, though you might be able to get Arabic lessons or performance bonuses.

Culture

An adventurer’s dream, Morocco blends Mediterranean, African, and Muslim influences, so there’s endless opportunity to explore from a cultural, culinary and historical point of view. As for sights, highlights include Marrakesh’s iconic Jemaa El Fnaa Square, where you can see snake charmers and street performers, Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque (with its 200m minaret), the Atlas Mountains and, of course, the imposing Sahara Desert.

Download our teaching English in Europe guide

Beginner-friendly destinations

What about if you’re looking to teach abroad for the first time? Where can you teach if you’ve recently completed a TEFL certificate but might not have a bachelor's degree? 

Here are some ideal destinations for landing your first teaching job abroad.

Cambodia

Cambodia should be on your shortlist if you have a TEFL certification and want to leave your comfort zone. It is an ideal location for new teachers to land ESL jobs since you don't need a bachelor's degree, but demand for English teachers is considerable, especially in major metropolitan areas like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Salary and perks

In Cambodia, you can earn around 5,283,959 KHR monthly (£970 / $1,318). It might not sound like a lot, but given the low cost of living in Cambodia, it's possible to save while teaching English abroad in Cambodia.

Lifestyle

Cambodia offers island settings, a warm climate, a lively international community and a vastly underrated music scene. There's also a more relaxed pace of life than in some competing Asian TEFL destinations.

Argentina

Argentina is among the best places for new TEFL teachers and still flies under the radar. With no degree required, just TEFL certification and enthusiasm, it’s a colourful, welcoming country where you can make a real impact.

Salary and perks

Teaching English abroad in Argentina will earn a TEFL educator an average of ARS 716,601 per month (£604 / $778). 

English teachers will sometimes get help with accommodation, usually through financial or practical help.

Lifestyle

There’s more to Argentina than football and steak, though you’ll find plenty of both. Cities like Buenos Aires are packed with culture, cafes, and energy, while the south offers the chance to explore Patagonia’s lakes, mountains, and national parks.

Colombia

A country reborn, Colombia is a highlight in Latin America and a destination growing in popularity. TEFL certification is a ticket to working in Colombia's public schools and private institutions, with cities like Bogotá and Medellín bursting with opportunity, music and art.

Salary and perks

TEFL salaries typically range from COP 3,463,810 to 4,225,277 monthly (£667 - £822 / $848 - $1,035). 

Depending on the role, you might be offered Colombian Spanish lessons and assistance with accommodation.

Lifestyle

Colombia is a dream destination for art lovers. Put the delicious coffee and local cuisine aside for a second, and you'll discover several galleries and museums showcasing artists like Fernando Botero, Alejandro Obregon, and Doris Salcedo.

Download our guide to teaching English around the world

Best countries to teach English abroad: in summary

Which is the ‘best’ place to teach abroad? That’s up to you. The world is packed with opportunities for enterprising TEFL teachers - no matter where you are in your teaching journey, there’s a perfect landing spot just for you.

There are countries where you can be part of a massive TEFL scene, with regular meet-ups and a well-established culture of English learning, and there are countries where you’re part of a movement to improve standards drastically. Some nations pay teachers' wages that leap off the page, while others offer volunteer opportunities and urgent charity work. No matter what your priorities are, there’s a TEFL location out there for you.

Imagine a career that allows you to teach in several countries, work with hundreds of eager students and make friends worldwide. That’s TEFL.

More on the best countries to teach English abroad

Frequently Asked Questions

    Here are some of the internet’s most asked questions about English teaching overseas:

  • Q. Which country has the highest demand for English teachers?

    Out of all the countries, China has the highest demand for English teachers, with an estimated 400 million learners. However, demand for English teachers is high worldwide!

  • Q. In which country are teachers highly paid?

    English teachers can find high salaries worldwide. Qualified teachers can earn big salaries in northern European countries, especially in the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden. The same is true in the Middle East, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Asian countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea also pay teachers well.

  • Q. What is the easiest country to teach English abroad?

    While teaching English abroad isn’t “easy,” countries with the most lenient teacher requirements include Cambodia, Argentina, and Colombia, where a degree is not required.