Teach English in Italy: Your Ultimate Guide

Many aspiring educators dream of the chance to teach English in Italy, a popular destination with opportunities in language academies, private tutoring, and even summer camps. Additionally, there is a growing demand for English teachers in businesses for corporate language training.

Why Italy? The opportunity to teach English in Italy goes beyond the classroom. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in a country rich in history, art, and culture. The Mediterranean country is known for its stunning landscapes, picturesque towns, and beautiful coastlines. Whether in a bustling city or a charming village, you’ll find endless reasons why Italy remains a top destination for English teachers.

Let’s explore some of the most frequently asked questions about teaching in Italy.  

Is there a demand for English teachers in Italy?

Teaching in Italy offers a unique approach compared to other European countries. There are no large-scale placement programs, so those looking for teaching jobs in Italy typically connect directly with schools, academies, or potential clients. Whether you’re searching for English teaching jobs in Italy or looking to offer private lessons, the door-to-door approach means you’ll need to actively market yourself by sending CVs and reaching out to schools.

By sending your CV to language academies or advertising private lessons, you can secure a variety of teaching opportunities. Of course, it’ll always be better if your resume has some sort of certification to showcase your experience as a TEFL instructor.

Need some help preparing to reach out to schools in Italy? Here are 6 tips for writing your TEFL resume.

What qualifications do I need to teach English in Italy?

Earning a TEFL certificate is highly recommended to compete for English teaching jobs in Italy. A TEFL qualification is one of the most common requirements asked for by Italian language academies, and earning one provides new teachers with confidence before stepping into their first lesson.

Bridge offers certifications tailored for those looking to secure TEFL jobs in Italy, such as the 120-hour Bridge Master Certificate and a 150-hour Bridge International Diploma in English Language Teaching (IDELTOnline™) which goes towards a TESOL MA degree.

If you plan to live in Italy but teach online, you may also consider a Specialized Certificate in Teaching English Online, or the 240-hour Comprehensive Certification Bundle, which includes the general TEFL/TESOL certification and Specialized Certification in Teaching English Online.

Do I need a degree to teach in Italy?

Many schools and employers in Italy will accept a TEFL qualification instead of a degree. However, if you’re looking to secure a more permanent position as an English teacher in Italy, you will likely need at least a bachelor’s degree to work at an international school.

Do I need prior teaching experience?

Depending on the type of job you are looking for you might need prior teaching experience. Language academies tend to look for teachers who have some years of experience under their belts. The same applies to schools and universities.

However, if you’re in Italy under a student visa studying a course yourself, you can aim to teach private lessons to different families or even businessmen and businesswomen looking for private classes. Having prior teaching experience in these situations is less of a requirement.

Explore a detailed breakdown of teaching English abroad requirements across top destinations worldwide.

What visa do I need?

European Union citizens can travel to Italy and stay as long as they like while teaching. However, for non-EU citizens, securing the right visa can be more complex. Options include obtaining sponsorship for a work visa or entering Italy on a student visa while working part-time.

Italy has recently launched a digital nomad visa, making it easier for non-EU citizens to live and teach remotely in Italy while enjoying its rich culture and lifestyle.

How much do English teachers earn in Italy?

Many teachers pursuing their dream of teaching English in Italy find that salary and cost of living vary greatly depending on the region. Given that the TEFL market in Italy consists mainly of freelancers and private teachers, it can be hard to pinpoint an average salary for teachers. Most people teaching English in Italy will make anywhere in the range of $1,300-$1,530.

For those working short-term contracts at summer schools or camps, the range is usually €250 ($273) per week. Freelance TEFL jobs in Italy often allow teachers to set their own rates and schedules, offering greater flexibility.

The cost of living depends on the city and region. Italy is notorious for having a large financial and cultural difference between its northern and southern regions. If you’re looking for cheaper costs and more sunshine, head to the south and enjoy pizza Napolitana. If you’re craving a ritzier lifestyle with more museums and city life, head to the north for pesto Genovese. 

Discover more about teaching abroad salaries, the highest-paying locations, and key factors to consider when estimating potential TEFL earnings

What types of TEFL jobs are available in Italy?

In Italy, there are various types of TEFL jobs, catering to different preferences, qualifications, and experiences. Here are some common types:

Language Schools: Many English teachers in Italy work in private language schools. These schools offer English courses to both children and adults. Positions may involve teaching general English, test preparation courses (such as for Cambridge or IELTS exams), or business English.
Private Tutoring: You can offer private English lessons to individuals or small groups. Private tutoring is a flexible option and allows you to set your own schedule. This could involve working with students of various ages and proficiency levels.
Corporate Training: Some English teachers work with businesses, providing English language training to employees. This type of TEFL job may involve teaching business English, focusing on communication skills and professional language use.
Summer Camps: During the summer months, there is often a demand for English teachers in summer camps. These camps may be residential or day camps, and they typically combine language learning with recreational activities.
Online Teaching: With the rise of online education, you can also find opportunities to teach English to Italian students online. This allows for flexibility and the ability to teach remotely.

These teaching jobs in Italy cater to various preferences and qualifications, making it possible for teachers to choose roles that suit their skills and goals.

What do people say about teaching English in Italy?

Bridge alumna Jennifer, from the U.S., became a Business English teacher in Rome, Italy. She commented: 

“Rome is a beautiful city and I have enjoyed living here very much. There is a large international community that has made me feel welcome and at home. I have been traveling and taking advantage of being in Europe. I would recommend learning about the different schools and the opportunities that Italy offers.”

Teaching English in Italy is more than just a job, it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, explore breathtaking landscapes, and connect with people in meaningful ways. Whether you’re drawn to private tutoring, corporate training, or summer camps, there’s a wide variety of teaching jobs in Italy to suit your goals and lifestyle.

With the right qualifications, a TEFL certification, and a proactive approach, you can make your dream of living and working in Italy a reality. Start your journey today and discover how teaching English can open the door to unforgettable experiences in one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

Curious about how to teach English abroad? Check out our step-by-step guide to kickstart your teach-abroad journey!