
Get Certified to Teach English Abroad
Learn the Requirements & What You Need to Do for Teaching English Abroad
Teach English Abroad – Explore Opportunities in Spain, Vietnam, Thailand, China, Japan, Korea, and Beyond!
Want to teach and travel? Whether you’re looking to teach in schools worldwide or work remotely as a digital nomad teaching English online, we’ll help you get started. Learn about the requirements for teaching English abroad, explore certification options, and find the right TEFL course to qualify for programs that match your goals.
Teaching English Abroad is as Easy as 1, 2, 3!
Define Your Teaching and Travel Goals
Start by identifying your ideal teaching experience. Where do you want to teach? Do you prefer teaching in a classroom in Spain, Vietnam, Thailand, China, or Japan, or would you rather teach English online while traveling as a digital nomad? What age group do you want to teach? Answering these questions will help us guide you to the right TEFL certification and teaching opportunities.
Get Certified
Earn a globally recognized TEFL/TESOL certification from Bridge to qualify for teaching jobs abroad or online. Our 100% online TEFL courses provide expert training, interactive learning, and support from a personal tutor. We’ll help you choose the best TEFL course to meet teaching English abroad requirements and qualify for top positions — including those with our Preferred Employment Partners.
Land a Teaching Job Abroad or Online
Even before completing your TEFL certification, we’ll connect you with teaching jobs through our network of Preferred Employment Partners. These include language schools abroad, online English teaching platforms, and teacher marketplaces. Our partners offer competitive pay, professional growth, and reliable work environments — helping you launch your teaching career with confidence.
NOTICE: *Some employers may require that you are a citizen of an English-speaking country or, if you’re a non-native English speaker, to prove you have a C1 or C2 level of English proficiency, based on CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference).
How to Teach English Abroad
What is Teaching English Abroad?
Teaching English abroad can take many forms, depending on your career goals and lifestyle preferences. Here are some of the most common ways to do it:
- Teach in traditional schools: Work in public or private schools in countries like Spain, Thailand, and South Korea.
- Teach at language institutes: Offer English lessons after school or at test prep centers and business English programs.
- Teach English online as a digital nomad: Work remotely while traveling, either as a freelancer, marketplace tutor, or teacherpreneur running your own business.
With so many ways to teach English abroad, you can find the right path to match your skills, interests, and travel goals.


Why Should You Teach English Abroad?
There are many benefits to teaching English abroad, making it an exciting career and travel opportunity:
- Experience new cultures – Immerse yourself in local traditions, language, and customs.
- Earn a salary while traveling – Teaching English is a great way to fund your travels.
- Gain transferable skills – Develop communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills valuable in any career.
- High global demand for teachers – Countries worldwide, including Spain, Thailand, and Mexico, need qualified English teachers.
- Visa opportunities – Many schools and government programs will sponsor work visas for teachers.
- Learn a new language – Living abroad helps you pick up a new language faster through immersion.
- Make an impact – Help students reach personal, academic, and career goals through English.
With so many ways to teach English abroad, you can find the right path to match your skills, interests, and travel goals.
Is There a Demand to Teach English Abroad?
Yes! The demand for English teachers remains high in countries prioritizing bilingual education and business English skills. Some of the top destinations for English teaching jobs include:
- Europe: Spain, Portugal
- Asia: Thailand, South Korea, Vietnam
- Latin America: Mexico, Colombia
- Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE (higher salaries and benefits)
Tip: If you’re interested in a digital nomad lifestyle, some countries now offer digital nomad visas that allow remote workers to legally live and work abroad.

How Much Can You Make Teaching English Abroad?
Your salary as an English teacher depends on location, qualifications, and job type. Here’s an overview of potential monthly earnings in different regions:
Europe
- Spain: $1,300 - $1,500
- Germany: $1,100 - $2,200
- Portugal: $750 - $1,080
Asia
- Vietnam: $1,500 - $2,000
- Thailand: $1,000 - $1,280
- Japan: $2,100 - $2,700
Latin America
- Mexico: $500 - $1,000
- Costa Rica: $700 - $1,500
- Chile: $800 - $1,200
Middle East (Highest-Paying Region)
- UAE: $2,200 - $6,000 (tax-free)
- Saudi Arabia: $2,300 - $3,000
- Qatar: $1,650 - $4,500
Factors that affect salary:
- Region: The Middle East generally offers the highest salaries and benefits.
- Qualifications: Teachers with advanced TEFL certification and experience earn more.
- Job Type: Business English teachers and university instructors often receive higher pay than general English teachers.
Bonus Tip: Many teachers supplement their income by teaching online while working at a school or traveling.
What Do You Need to Teach English Abroad?
To teach English abroad, you’ll need to meet certain qualifications. Requirements vary by country, employer, and job type, but most teaching jobs abroad consider these key factors:
Most teaching jobs abroad require TEFL/TESOL certification, with 120 hours being the industry standard. A TEFL certificate proves your ability to effectively teach English to non-native speakers.
Why get a TEFL certification?
- Covers teaching methods, lesson planning, and classroom management.
- Qualifies you for higher-paying jobs and visa sponsorship.
- Required by most reputable employers worldwide.
For specialized teaching roles, consider additional certifications:
- Teaching Business English (for corporate training & executive students).
- Teaching Young Learners & Teenagers (for K-12 jobs).
- Teaching English Online (for digital nomads & remote work).
If you plan to teach in competitive regions like the Middle East, consider an advanced TEFL certification, such as IDELTOnline™ or a graduate-level TEFL diploma.
Yes and no — it depends on where you want to teach!
Regions that typically require a degree:
- Asia (South Korea, Japan, China)
- Europe (Germany, France, UK)
- Middle East (UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia – often requires advanced degrees)
Countries where you can teach without a degree:
- Spain (some programs and private schools)
- Romania (less visa restriction for non-EU teachers)
- Argentina (high demand for English teachers)
- Mexico (large job market with flexible hiring requirements)
- Laos & Cambodia (great for new teachers)
Alternative options for teachers without a degree:
- Apply to summer camps, after-school programs, or tutoring centers.
- Teach English online as a freelancer or teacherpreneur.
- Consider Latin America and Eastern Europe, which have more flexible requirements.
Not always! Many regions hire teachers without experience.
Countries that often hire new teachers:
- Vietnam, Mexico, Spain, Thailand, Costa Rica
- Higher-paying jobs (Middle East, universities) often require experience.
Gain experience through:
- TEFL practicums
- Tutoring online or volunteering
- Assistant teaching roles in public schools
Additional ways to gain TEFL experience before applying for jobs:
- Join language assistant programs (e.g., Spain’s Auxiliares de Conversación program).
- Volunteer through programs like English Opens Doors in Chile.
- Apply for summer camps and after-school tutoring programs.
Tip: If you’re aiming for a job in a competitive market, start in a flexible region to gain experience and move up to higher-paying positions later.
Yes! Many non-native English speakers successfully teach English abroad.
Tips for non-native english speakers to get hired:
- Emphasize multilingual skills – Show how speaking multiple languages makes you a better teacher.
- Highlight English immersion experiences – Studying, working, or living in an English-speaking country helps.
- Earn a TEFL certification from a globally recognized provider – Schools want proof of strong language skills and teaching ability.
Some schools still prefer native English speakers, but this outdated requirement is disappearing as more institutions recognize multilingual teachers bring valuable skills to the classroom.
Visa requirements vary by country and teaching position. Many governments sponsor visas for English teachers, but it’s important to check each country’s specific work visa policies.
Typical work visa requirements:
- Valid passport (some countries have age restrictions).
- TEFL certification.
- Bachelor’s degree (if required).
- Clean criminal record check.
- Medical clearance.
- Employment contract from a school or language center.
If you want to teach English online while living abroad, some countries now offer digital nomad visas for remote workers.
Countries offering digital nomad visas:
- Spain
- Portugal
- Costa Rica
- Mexico
- Dubai
Basic digital nomad visa requirements:
- Proof of remote income (varies by country, e.g., Portugal requires 4x the national minimum wage).
- Valid passport and clean criminal record check.
- Proof of health insurance.
If you plan to work remotely while traveling , these visas allow you to legally live abroad while teaching online.
Most employers require at least a 120-hour TEFL certificate, but advanced certification can help you stand out.
Recommended TEFL certifications based on your career goals:
- Entry-Level: 120-Hour TEFL Certificate (qualifies you for most jobs).
- Advanced: 150-Hour IDELTOnline™ (for competitive markets & university jobs).
- Specialized: Business English, Young Learners, or TOEFL Prep (for niche teaching).
Tip: If you’re already a licensed teacher in your home country, you may not need TEFL certification — but getting one will still boost your job prospects!
Final Summary
What do you need to Teach English Abroad?
- A 120-hour TEFL certification (required in most jobs).
- A bachelor’s degree (needed in some regions, but not all).
- Teaching experience (not required everywhere, but helpful).
- A work visa (rules depend on country and job type).
- A strong level of English proficiency (especially for non-native speakers).
By meeting these qualifications, you’ll be ready to start teaching English abroad or online and embark on your global teaching adventure!
How to start Teaching English Abroad:
Step-by-Step Guide
-
01
Assess your qualifications
- Determine if you need a TEFL certification or additional training.
- Gain teaching experience through tutoring, volunteering, or a TEFL practicum.
-
02
Choose a destination
- Consider salary expectations, visa options, and job market demand.
- Research different regions to match your goals and lifestyle.
-
03
Prepare your TEFL resume & Search for Jobs
- Highlight TEFL certification, specializations, and experience.
- Use resources like the Bridge Job Board to find positions worldwide.
-
04
Apply for Jobs & Interview
- Prepare for video interviews with schools and online teaching companies.
- Negotiate salary, benefits, and contract details before accepting an offer.
-
05
Relocate & Start Teaching!
- Get visa paperwork and housing arrangements in place.
- Begin your exciting journey as an English teacher abroad!
How to Teach English Abroad as a Digital Nomad
Prefer flexibility and location independence? Teaching English online allows you to:
- Work from anywhere with a stable internet connection.
- Choose between tutoring for marketplaces, freelancing, or starting your own business.
- Use a digital nomad visa in countries like Spain, Portugal, and Mexico to legally work abroad.
If you want to launch your own online teaching business, consider the Bridge Teacherpreneur Academy for guidance on marketing, pricing, and scaling your business.
Meet Our Preferred Employment Partners
Find the best teaching English abroad programs and start your TEFL journey with trusted employers!

Teach English in Spain with RVF International
Looking for an immersive program? RVF International offers a fully supported experience in Spain, guiding you through the visa process and ensuring a smooth transition.
- Teach English in public schools across Spain, working alongside local educators.
- Gain classroom experience co-teaching young learners and teens.
- Enjoy a work-life balance with just 20 teaching hours per week (spread over four days).
- Use your extra time to explore Spain and Europe or teach English online as a digital nomad.
Discover Spain while teaching — a rewarding experience that blends career growth, cultural immersion, and travel opportunities.
Learn MoreTeach English in Thailand with BFITS
Looking for a program that offers both support and career growth? BFITS (Bright Future International Training & Services) provides a structured and rewarding experience for educators in Thailand.
- Teach English or instruct subjects like Science and Math in English.
- Receive comprehensive training, lesson planning support, and teaching resources from an expert academic team.
- Work with students of various age groups while immersing yourself in Thailand’s rich culture and landscapes.
- Access ongoing professional development to grow your skills and advance your career.
Whether you're teaching in a Thai classroom or exploring the country’s breathtaking destinations, BFITS ensures a well-balanced lifestyle that supports both personal and professional aspirations.
Learn More
You're in Good Company – Hear from Bridge Alumni!
Join thousands of Bridge-certified teachers who are now thriving as English teachers abroad, online tutors, and corporate trainers. Whether teaching in a classroom in Thailand, a school in Spain, or working remotely as a digital nomad, our alumni are making an impact worldwide.

Elizabeth – Teaching Young Learners at a Private School in Spain
Elizabeth started as a Spanish teacher in the U.S., but while earning her master’s degree abroad, she fell in love with Madrid and decided to switch careers. She completed the Bridge 120-Hour Master TEFL/TESOL Certificate to teach English abroad.
Natalia – Freelance Occupational English Teacher in Italy
After relocating to Italy, Natalia, a Bridge IDELTOnline™ graduate, found both safety and new career opportunities in teaching English as a freelancer. With 20 years of teaching experience, she has specialized in English for the IT industry for over 12 years, working with professionals like developers, programmers, and managers.
Johan – Online Business English Teacher in Brazil
Born in Venezuela, Johan grew up fascinated by languages and global cultures, eventually becoming fluent in seven languages, including English. While learning English at university, he discovered a passion for teaching and decided to pursue it as a career.He completed the Bridge 120-Hour Master TEFL/TESOL Certificate, which helped him secure his current role teaching Business English online. Today, he works with teen and adult learners at a language institute in Brazil, helping professionals improve their English for the workplace.

Monika – Business English Specialist in Lithuania
A series of unexpected events led Bridge graduate Monika Zebrauskyte to a life of travel, entrepreneurship, and teaching English. A chance encounter led her to manage an international English language summer camp in Malta, which sparked years of globetrotting and new opportunities.Her travels eventually inspired her to invest in a startup business while continuing to grow her teaching career. She completed the Bridge Specialized Certificate in Teaching Business English, which helped her transition into her current role as a Business English teacher in Lithuania.
How Bridge Can Help You Find Teaching Jobs Abroad
Bridge provides the tools, resources, and community support to help you land a job teaching English abroad or online.

Bridge Job Board
Search for teaching English abroad programs and online English teaching jobs with our Preferred Employment Partners. Access job listings, application tips, and expert resources to kickstart your teaching journey.

Bridge TEFL Facebook Community
Join our Facebook group to connect with a global network of teachers. Share TEFL tips, job search strategies, and classroom insights while supporting and learning from fellow educators.

Bridge Job Advising Modules
When you enroll in any Bridge TEFL course, you’ll gain access to exclusive Job Advising Modules. These step-by-step guides help you navigate the job search process, find the right employer, and advance your career in TEFL/TESOL.

Start Your TEFL Journey Today!
Ready to teach English abroad or online? Our experts are here to help you find the right TEFL certification, explore teaching jobs, and take the next step toward your adventure.
Why Choose Bridge for Your TEFL Certification?
Join a trusted global network of teachers who have launched successful careers with Bridge TEFL certification.
- Earn an Advanced TEFL Certification – Gain a globally recognized TEFL/TESOL certification through our interactive online courses.
- Join 50,000+ Bridge Graduates – Become part of an international community of educators teaching English abroad and online.
- Get Personalized Support – Work with your own personal tutor for guidance throughout your TEFL course.
- Access Our Global Job Network – Connect with top teach-abroad programs and online job opportunities.
- Learn on the Best TEFL E-Learning Platform – Study on a user-friendly, interactive platform designed for success.
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Boost Your Credentials with Digital Badges – Showcase your TEFL certification on
and stand out to employers.

Knowledge is Power – Explore Our Teach Abroad Resources
Get the information you need to confidently start your journey teaching abroad with our expert resources.

Live TEFL Info Session
Join a free online session with a Bridge advisor to ask questions and learn more about TEFL certification and job opportunities.

FAQs
Browse answers to the most frequently asked questions about teaching English abroad, certification, and job search strategies.
Dig Deeper with Free TEFL eBooks
Gain expert insights from Bridge team members and experienced EFL teachers with our free, in-depth guides on teaching abroad, TEFL certification, and career growth.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language: From Getting Started to Landing a TEFL Job
Discover everything you need to teach English abroad — from choosing the right TEFL certification to job search strategies, interview prep, and career advancement.

Teach English Destination Guide
Explore top TEFL destinations and find out where you can teach English abroad or online as a digital nomad. Learn about salaries, job markets, and lifestyle opportunities.

Teaching English to Adults
Understand the qualifications, job opportunities, and teaching strategies for teaching adult English learners, including insights into specialized TEFL niches.
