The TEFL Times

By Sharon K Couzens de Hinojosa of the TEFL Tips website

Choosing a country will depend on what you want to get out of teaching English. If you’re looking for money, you won’t go to the same country as those who are looking to surf or ski. Experience and education will also be a factor in your decision. Since money is often a factor, let’s address that issue first.

Top Countries for Earning Money

If you’re looking to save you should head towards Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, or the Middle East. Korea and Taiwan are also easy for newbies to get a good paying job with great benefits.

Hong Kong may be a more difficult market to get into. The NET (Native English Teacher) Scheme is the best, money-wise, but you will need experience and a background in teaching.

Lastly is the Middle East, where salaries can range from 30 to 60K USD a year. Saudi Arabia is at the top as far as money’s concerned. However, you will need experience and a MA degree just to get your foot in the door. Also, keep in mind that life in the Middle East may not be as foreign friendly as other countries. Some limitations that you might encounter are: needing special permission to leave the country, alcohol limitations, and little interaction with the locals.

Living in Paradise

If you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere, try Thailand, Mexico, or Argentina. Although you will probably be paid less, sometimes a more relaxed atmosphere outweighs the pay.

Thailand is located in South East Asia, has great weather year round and lots of beaches. It’s also a top tourist destination, so you’ll find many of the amenities there that you will find at home.

Since Mexico is part of Latin America, you will be treated to two-hour lunch breaks and siestas. Argentina has more of a European feel to it than Mexico, but the Latin American mindset still goes strong.

What about Europe?

Many people want to go to Europe, but the truth to the matter is that visas may be hard to come by. Getting a visa in the new EU, Central and Eastern Europe, is much easier than trying to get one in the old EU, Western Europe. If you’re interested in teaching in Europe, do a little family background research as you may qualify for a passport from a European country. Italy is probably the easiest to get a passport from if you have family from there.

Europe may be perfect for as it’s exotic and has beautiful architecture and a fascinating history. Pay seems to hover around 700 to 1000 USD a month across Europe.

International Schools

If you have a background in teaching, experience and qualifications, money and visas won’t be an issue for you. You pretty much have the world at your feet. The majority of international schools will pay just about the same as schools in your home country, you’ll have benefits, including relocation allowances, and schools will get you a visa. Most places require a one or two year contract.

About the author

Sharon K Couzens de Hinojosa is the creator and writer for TEFL Tips, The LA Job List, and The Ultimate Peru List. She enjoys answering people’s questions about TEFLing and Peru.