Would you like to teach English abroad but don’t know how to start? You're in luck! This article by ScholarshipTab, explains everything there is to know about the Best Country To Teach English 2024.

Teaching English abroad is an awesome opportunity to explore the world and have a life-changing experience. There are lots of countries in the world hiring foreigners to teach their citizens how to speak good English. But, the hardest part about ESL teaching is deciding which country to go to. 

To make your decision easier, we have taken the time to carefully handpick only the best countries that are worth your time as an English tutor. Our guide includes information about teaching in each country, how much you can expect to earn, and the requirements you'll need to qualify for a job.

What To Expect:

• 4 reasons why you should teach English abroad in 2024

• 5 things to know before you teach English abroad.

• Requirements for teaching English abroad.

• Table showing the 26 best country to teach English 2024.

• Best country to teach English 2024.

 

4 Reasons Why You Should Teach English Abroad In 2024

There are a lot of benefits to gain from teaching English abroad. One of them is being able to share your knowledge of this language to help your students make a difference in their lives.

Other benefits include cultural immersion and exchange, a better life, a good salary to take care of yourself, and more money in your savings.

But what are other reasons why you should teach English abroad in 2024? We share them below.

1. The TEFL Jobs Market Is Lucrative

There is a large demand for TEFL teachers as many countries have opened their doors to tourists. There are over 375 million English language learners around the globe. And an estimated 100,000 TEFL jobs open up yearly.

Furthermore, with online learning becoming popular, the market for TEFL teachers has opened up wider to receive new tutors.

2. Limitless Travel Opportunities

Teaching English abroad is an easy way to tour the world while still earning a living. You get to choose where you want to live and the type of work you'll be doing. TEFL abroad gives you that choice.

3. Living A Good Life

For a greater part, TEFL tutors live comfortable lives. You can live modestly and save money to take to your home country or live large on generous teaching salaries and a cheap cost of living.

4. Make Lots Of Money

Teaching English in any of the countries mentioned can be very lucrative. If you want to make money as an English tutor, target the places in our article with your TEFL job application.

 

5 Things To Know Before You Teach English Abroad

Before you start sending out those TEFL job applications, these are 5 things to know before you teach English abroad:

1. Get Certified

The best certification is the Cambridge CELTA, the most renowned and internationally recognised certification for English teachers.

2. Make Your CV Stand Out

Ensure your CV stands out. You have just 7 seconds to get a recruiter's attention, make them count. 

You could also boost your CV and expertise by acquiring new skills in a specific field of English teaching, such as exam preparation or teaching young learners. Make it match what's in demand in your preferred country.

3. Join Expat Groups

You can find an expat group to communicate with and ask questions before and after you arrive. They are always happy to share their experiences with you.

4. Do Research

Ensure you know everything moving abroad entails before you do it. You'll succeed better and settle into this experience easier if you do.

 

Requirements For Teaching English Abroad

You must meet certain requirements before you qualify to teach English abroad. We have listed them in this section.

1. A TEFL Certificate

A TEFL certificate is a vital requirement for TEFL jobs, almost every country asks for it. If you need to get certified, you can visit the TEFL Academy. They offer several TEFL courses developed by professional, experienced TEFL teachers, and are also reliable, accredited, and recognised globally. 

You can sign up for their courses and get support at every step of your TEFL journey. 

2. Visa

Getting a visa depends on which country you'll be teaching in, your nationality and your passport. While most countries demand a work visa from English tutors, the requirements vary by country. Some countries also permit you to enter with a tourist visa, which you can change to a work permit. 

Discuss with your home country's embassy or visit the embassy website of your destination country to find out if you'll need a visa or not, and what kind.

3. Bachelor's Degree

Some countries require a Bachelor's degree before you can be offered a working visa, while others waive this requirement. However, the degree can be in any discipline.  Which means it must not be in English or Education or Teaching. It can be in Psychology or IT or Accounting.

4. Speak English Fluently

In most countries, you don't have to be a native English speaker to teach English abroad. But, if you are not a native speaker, proving your English proficiency in a test result of C1 or higher, according to CEFR standards will suffice.

Similarly, if you can prove that your degree or education was at an English-medium institution, and you were taught in English, that is usually accepted.

 

Table Showing 26 Best Country To Teach English 2024

Country	English Tutor Salary Per Month
United Arab Emirates	$2,500 - $5,000
South Korea	$1,500 - $3,000
China	$1,500 - $3,000
Vietnam	$1,100 - $2,000
Spain	$1,000 - $1,900
Japan	Y250,000 - Y300,000
Morocco	DH 4,000 - DH 10,000
Thailand	TBH25,000 - TBH40,000
Taiwan	NT$ 60,000 - NT$ 90,000
France	€800 and €2,000
Costa Rica	?375,000 – ?625,000
Myanmar	$700 - $1,000
Colombia	$700 - $1,000
Cambodia	$700 - $1,000
Kuwait	$2,500 - $6,000
Mexico	8,000 - 2,000 pesos
Dominican Republic	$500 - $800
Hungary	$700 - $900
Czech Republic	18,000 - 30,000 CZK
Poland	$750 - $1,050
Chile	$750 - $1,000
Croatia	$900 - $1,300
Guatemala	$500 - $600
Saudi Arabia	$1,800 - $5,000
Qatar	9,000 to 16,300 QAR
Oman	750 - 1,350 OMR

 

Best Country To Teach English 2024 

The following destinations were selected as the best countries to teach english abroad. Each has information about how tutoring as a foreigner works, the salary you can expect to earn, and the requirements you need to present as an English teacher. By the end of this article, you'll know which country is best for you.

1. United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is the best country to teach english, and we'll tell you why. English is widely spoken in the UAE, so teachers are in high demand. However, the market is highly competitive. If you want to get a job faster, then it is advised that you employ the services of a recruiting agency, so that you get more insight on the best placement for you. 

English teaching contracts in the UAE usually last for 2 or 3 years, and they often include benefits such as free accommodation, health insurance and airfare. The salaries are tax-free as well. Places you can expect to find job vacancies include - preschools, public and international schools, private language academies, and universities.

English tutor salary: $2,500 - $5,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In The UAE

• High-quality teaching qualification (Cambridge CELTA, teaching license or both).

• University degree (master's in education is preferred).

• Trinity DipTESOL qualification (or Delta).

• At least two years of teaching experience.

 

2. South Korea

South Korea has a top education system due to this, the demand for teaching English as a foreign language is ever-growing. This quality makes it one of the top countries to teach english abroad. 

Tutoring young learners in English is an opportunity you'll find in public schools or private language academies. Every year, parents prioritise their children studying English which often starts in preschool. You could also teach adults at universities or language schools.

Using a reliable recruiter in South Korea is the safest and most convenient way to becoming an English tutor, as they'll guide you. Recruiting services are often free for English teachers. 

English tutor salary: $1,500 - $3,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In South Korea

• Four-year bachelor's degree to get your work visa issued.

 

3. China

China has opportunities for experienced English teachers, to tutor in preschools, international schools, and universities. This makes it one of the best countries to teach english and save money. 

The salary you earn as an English teacher in China is lucrative but depends on the type of school, location, and experience level. Public schools pay more than training centres, and jobs at international schools pay the best.  

Some benefits to your contract include - flight tickets, contract completion bonus, free housing (or housing allowance), health insurance, free meals, and Mandarin lessons.

English tutor salary: $1,500 - $3,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In China

• A university degree for processing your work permit.

• Or a 5-month internship program that lets you work on a student visa.

 

4. Vietnam

Thanks to the high demand for English teachers, Vietnam is another of the best countries to teach english abroad. New centres are continuously opening, while public schools, private schools, and language academies are hiring year-round. 

Furthermore, with an advanced teaching qualification and experience, you’ll land a job with highly reserved international schools and universities. Employers often offer initial training and constant support for the duration of your contract. This includes comprehensive relocation packages and housing stipends.

English tutor salary: $1,100 - $2,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Vietnam

• TEFL qualification.

• Teaching experience.

 

5. Spain

Spain has a good education system, and English is in its curriculum from the preschool level and upward. This makes it one of the countries with high demand for english teachers. Some of the most popular English classes in Spain include - young learners and Cambridge exam preparation classes, general English and Business English lessons for adults. You could also teach private classes at an international or public school. 

The salary for English teachers in Spain depends on location, type of school, and how many hours you can do. Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia have the biggest teaching opportunities you'll find. The cost of living, especially the rent, can eat deep into your income, so taking jobs in 

English tutor salary: $1,000 - $1,900 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Spain

• Non-EU citizens can teach English in Spain on a long-term student visa.

• Explore other visa types, including government-sponsored teaching assistant programs with placements in Spain offered in your home country.

 

6. Japan

If you are looking for the best asian countries to teach english, then you should consider Japan. This country has become popular with TEFL teachers over the last few years. Japan is attractive due to its rich traditional, modern, and futuristic qualities. The benefits offered to English tutors and lucrative salaries could be another reason. 

Before moving to Japan to teach, you must first get a job so that your employer can send you a Certificate of Eligibility which you'll use to apply for a visa. Here you can earn as much as Y250,000 and Y300,000 a month, although it could be Y600,000 if you work in a university.

English tutor salary: Y250,000 - Y300,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach In Japan

• You'll need an Instructor's or a Humanities Specialist/International Services visa.

• Bachelor's degree and a TEFL certificate to obtain the visas mentioned above.

• Certificate of Eligibility from employer.

 

7. Morocco

Morocco is one of the best countries to teach english in, because it promotes English lessons in its schools to cater to the recent increase in tourism. You can find the demand for the English language in universities, state schools, private language institutes, and corporations that need Business English.

Teaching in Morocco lets you enjoy a fusion of European, north African and Arabic cultures.

English tutor salary: DH 4,000 - DH 10,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Morocco

• Level 5 TEFL certificate.

• Fulfil up to 20-25 hours of teaching per week.

 

8. Thailand

Thailand is the best countries for english teachers due to the numerous TEFL jobs available for foreigners. The easy lifestyle, low cost of living, location, and how easy it is to travel from here to other Asian countries, are other qualities that make Thailand a great option for you.

As an English tutor in Thailand, you can expect a decent salary that covers your meals and is still enough to give you a comfortable life. 

English tutor salary: ?25,000 - ?40,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Thailand

• A degree.

• TEFL certificate.

 

9. Taiwan

Taiwan has gradually become one of the best countries for esl teachers. With a working culture similar to that of China, Japan, and South Korea, Taiwan can be harder to adapt to if you have a Western mindset. However, teaching English here can be highly rewarding.

In Taiwan, the higher your experience and qualifications, the higher your salary. The cost of living in this country is low, so your salary can go a long way. Additionally most contracts include bonuses such as flights, housing, and healthcare.

English tutor salary: NT$ 60,000 - NT$ 90,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Taiwan

• A bachelor's degree. 

• Native speaker from an English-speaking country.

• There is no set age limit, but tutors under 60 are preferred.

 

10. France

France is an enchanting destination to reside in but among the best countries for tefl. While finding an ESL job is easier as an EU citizen, citizens of other English-speaking countries can also work in France.

For instance, Americans aged 20 to 25 can work as teaching assistants through the Teaching Assistant Program in France (TAPIF) program. Other programs help you find jobs and assist with the tedious processes of getting an EU visa.

English tutor salary: €800 and €2,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In France

• Bachelor's degree.

• A TEFL certificate.

• EU passport (preferably).

• Non-EU citizens are to check their eligibility for the Teaching Assistant Program (TAPIF) or find work as an au pair.

• CELTA certification or equivalent.

 

11. Costa Rica

If you are looking for the best countries to teach english without a degree, try Costa Rica. If you love to surf, are intrigued by volcanoes and love lush vegetation, you'll fit right in here. 

In Costa Rica, you'll earn a good salary to fend for yourself during your stay there.  However, the the way of life in this country, reminds you that there's more to life than a payslip.

English tutor salary:    ?375,000 – ?625,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Costa Rica

• TEFL certificate.

• Smaller towns with attractive salaries are advisable.

• Teaching experience is preferred but a degree is NOT needed.

 

12. Myanmar

Located between India, Thailand, and China, this ancient Southeast Asian country was culturally and economically isolated for years. However, it recently welcomed international travel and trade, leading to high demand for English language instruction. Today, Myanmar is one of the best countries to teach abroad as an English tutor.

Myanmar has relaxed hiring requirements compared to other Asian countries, making it easier for people without a college degree to get teaching positions.

English tutor salary: $700 - $1,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Myanmar

• Have a TEFL certification.

• A college degree (not required but preferred).

• Native English speaker or speak fluently.

• Hold a valid passport and visa.

• Be financially stable enough to handle start-up costs.

 

13. Colombia

Colombia has a rising demand for English language instruction, making it one of the best latin american countries to teach english. Since the beginning of the 21st century, the Colombian government has strongly encouraged English learning and promoted bilingual education in public schools. This push for English language education has created a flourishing job market for those who want to teach English in Latin America.

Besides a rich TEFL job market, Colombia provides a spectacular combination of vibrant cities, stunning coastlines, lush highlands, and rainforests. Top cities for employment include - Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena, and Cali.

English tutor salary: $700 - $1,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Colombia

• A TEFL certification.

• Strong preference for teachers from official native English-speaking nations.

 

14. Cambodia

Although it is not as big or economically developed as some other Asian countries, Cambodia has a rapidly growing TEFL job market, where development in sectors like tourism and increased Internet use spurs the demand for English language instruction. Cambodia is one of the best countries to teach english for non native speakers.

Many tutors visit here for its tropical beauty, rich history, and ancient culture. Cambodia's south coast has magnificent islands and the ancient temple city of Angkor Wat, one of the most spectacular monuments in the world.

English tutor salary: $700 - $1,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Cambodia

• A four-year degree is not required.

• No need to be a native English speaker.

• TEFL-certified teachers above 40 years old can apply to teach.

• A TEFL certification is required.

• Strong preference is given to official native English-speaking nations.

 

15. Kuwait

Kuwait is among the best countries to teach esl in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf. It provides well-paying opportunities and a job market that is less competitive than some other countries in the region, such as the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Additionally, Kuwait's location provides fantastic tourist opportunities to destinations like Dubai, the Eastern Mediterranean, and India.

Although Kuwait has rigid hiring requirements, English teachers here enjoy some of the highest salaries in the industry. Benefits include free housing and flights to and from your home country. There are also expatriate communities you can join to connect with other English speakers, to make your transition to Kuwait easier.

English tutor salary: $2,500 - $6,000.

Requirements To Teach English In Kuwait

• A TEFL certification is required.

• Applicants from official native English-speaking nations are strongly preferred.

• Previous experience and a degree in education are required.

 

16. Mexico

With 24 million Mexicans learning English, this country has one of the largest TEFL job markets in the Western Hemisphere. Include its enchanting natural landscape, rich history, dynamic cities, stunning coastlines, and globally-renowned cuisine, and you'll see why Mexico is one of the best countries to teach english as a foreign language. 

English teachers in Mexico can obtain a work visa that provides them a legal right to work in the country, and access to the national healthcare system. Hiring requirements are flexible here, making Mexico a great option if you do not have a college degree, is a non-native English speaker or are above 40 years old.

English tutor salary: 8,000 - 2,000 pesos a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Mexico

• A TEFL certification is required.

 

17. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic may not be the largest country in the world, but it is among the best countries to teach as an English tutor. DR provides lots of job markets for teaching English in the Caribbean region. With an economy largely dependent on trade with countries such as the U.S. and tourism, the demand for English language instruction is high.

English teachers will find gigs mainly in cities like Santiago and Santo Domingo, which provide attractive combinations of history, culture, nightlife, and eye-catching colonial architecture.

English tutor salary: $500 - $800 a month.

Requirements to teach English in the Dominican Republic

• A bachelor's degree is preferred but not required. The degree can be in any field, it must not be English.

• You need a TEFL certification to get hired in DR.

• Teachers from official native English-speaking nations are strongly preferred.

 

18. Hungary

Hungary is a rapidly growing English teaching market in Europe for international ESL opportunities. It is among the best countries to teach tefl. Most first-time English teachers get hired in Hungary through the Central European Teaching Program (CETP), which puts teachers in teaching positions throughout the country.

Although it is not a popular European country, Hungary offers an enticing combination of history, architecture, and location making it an ideal spot for touring the continent. Additionally, its cost of living is lower than most Western European nations.

English tutor salary: $700 - $900 per month.

Requirements To Teach English In Hungary

• Placement fee for candidates hired through the Central European Teaching Program (CETP).

• A TEFL certification.

• Bachelor's degree.

 

19. Czech Republic

Czech Republic is the best country to teach esl, as it is a major TEFL job market in Europe. Benefits you stand to enjoy include a low cost of living and the opportunity to tour the continent.

Furthermore, you can live comfortably as an English tutor in the Czech Republic thanks to a good hourly wage. You can work 20-25 hours a week, leaving lots of room to enjoy the country.

English tutor salary: 18,000 - 30,000 CZK a month.

Requirements To Teach English In the Czech Republic

• TEFL Certificate.

• Bachelor's degree (preferred but not required).

• A strong knowledge of the English language.

 

20. Poland

Poland is another of the best european countries to teach english, especially for those who want a European country bordered on both the East and West, that has not yet been overcrowed with ESL teachers competing for the same opportunities. If you move to Poland now, you'll be one of the few tutors who can teach the English language.

Most teaching opportunities in Poland are in bigger cities, like Warsaw or Krakow, but there are also tutoring jobs in the surrounding countryside. Although the cost of living in Poland is good, many tutors add to their salary by taking private tutoring jobs.

English tutor salary: $750 - $1,050 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Poland

• TEFL Certificate.

• 4-year college degree (preferred but not required).

• Native English proficiency.

 

21. Chile

Chile is the best country to teach tefl in South America, including studying abroad, and a hot destination for tourism. Besides its magnificent glaciers, deserts, and mountains, this place also has cities with sufficient job opportunities for foreigners to teach in private or public schools, including private tutoring gigs.

If you are worried about getting into the job market and finding a tutoring job in Chile, you don't have to. The Chilean government facilitates certain ESL placement programs, that can make the process smoother for you.

English tutor salary:  $750 - $1,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Chile

• Be a native English speaker.

• Highly educated citizens are preferred.

• Ability to communicate fluently in English.

 

22. Croatia

While Croatia is among the best paid tefl countries, teaching here can be challenging if you do not know how to speak Croatian. The language is hard to learn, but this should not discourage you. Learning Croatian will help you understand your students' plight with learning English and you could connect with them better too. 

The Croatian school system values the education of its students, so tutors must have a certification or degree before they can apply for teaching jobs in cities such as Dubrovnik or Zagreb.

English tutor salary: 900 - $1,300 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Croatia

• TEFL certification or equivalent.

• A bachelor's or master's degree is a must.

• Be able to speak Croatian frequently.

 

23. Guatemala

Often ignored, Guatemala is among the best countries to teach english 2024. This nation overcame years of instability to become the great country it is today. Colonial history, a strong indigenous culture, and Spanish traditions hold it up.

Guatemala has lots of schools that need English teachers, especially in the city of Antigua. However, small villages are also a good option if you want a rural setting for your teaching experience. 

Since most people don't know about Guatemala, it is an ideal place for tutors who want to improve their Spanish skills.

English tutor salary: $500 - $600 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Guatemala

• A TEFL certificate.

• Native English speaking.

• Bachelor’s degree (preferred but not required).

 

24. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is one of the best paying countries to teach english, but tutoring here is not for the weak. This country has a different approach to government, societal norms, and customs than most Western countries which can be shocking for an ESL teacher. However, if you do move to Saudi Arabia, you must respect their traditions.

On that note, Saudi is a fantastic place to teach English abroad. In addition to tutoring students and helping them improve their English skills, you'll also be breaking down the stereotypes they have about Westerners.

English tutor salary: $1,800 - $5,000 a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Saudi Arabia

• TEFL certificate.

• Degree in education.

• Previous teaching experience.

• Master's degree (preferred).

• Work visa.

 

25. Qatar

Qatar is one of the best tefl countries for you if you don't mind a desert climate for a high ESL teaching salary. This tax-free teaching location is said to be safe for Western professionals, even thousands of miles away from home, you can also join the expat community to make friends.

Teaching experience is necessary for teaching English in Qatar, and TEFL certificates are mandatory too. As an ESL teacher, you can get housing, flights, and possible transportation allowance. Furthermore, Qatar's cost of living is low so you can save a lot of money from your salary.

English tutor salary: 9,000 to 16,300 QAR monthly.

Requirements To Teach English In Qatar

• Bachelor’s degree.

• TEFL certificate.

• Valid teaching license (required by international schools).

 

26. Oman

Oman is among the countries where english teachers are in demand. It is one of the most developed countries in the Arab world and has witnessed fast developments in its education system over the years.

English teachers are paid well in Oman and with the country's low cost of living, you'll live comfortably and have lots of chances to save money. While English teaching jobs are limited, you'll have the honour of helping to develop the ESL field in Oman and get a good salary.

English tutor salary: 750 - 1,350 OMR a month.

Requirements To Teach English In Oman

• TEFL certificate.

Conclusion:

Whether you're looking for new opportunities for professional development or want to teach English as a foreign language as a new career path, becoming a tutor abroad is something you should consider. 

It is a rewarding experience that'll help you grow personally and careerwise. To help you get started, use our post as a guide.