Where are English teachers in demand worldwide? Learn about the 15 best countries for teaching English abroad and where you can find great teaching English abroad jobs in 2025.
Which Countries Are Options for Teaching English?
For 2025, 15 countries stand out as the best places to teach English abroad:
After a thorough review of more than 80 countries, including feedback from alumni, partners, and experts in international English education, here are International TEFL Academy's current recommendations for the best countries to teach English abroad in 2025. Our criteria for choosing these nations include job availability, openness to international travel, including opportunities for people of different backgrounds and ages, salaries and benefits, and quality of life and experience. We've also intentionally included countries from different regions of the globe.
So where should you go? Let's dive right into it:
Where Can I Teach English Abroad?
English teaching jobs abroad are available in up to 100 countries worldwide and for teaching English online. Even without a college degree, if you get TEFL certified, there are more than 50 nations where you can realistically get hired to teach English as a foreign language.
What Countries Need English Teachers?
With the emergence of English as the world's primary language of international commerce and culture, an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide are currently learning English. This translates into demand for trained English teachers in nearly every nation from China to Costa Rica.
13. Thailand
From the palm-lined beaches of tropical islands to the pulsating street life of Bangkok, the charms of Thailand are legendary and it has long been a favorite destination for language teachers. With a young, growing population combined with an economy increasingly dependent on international trade and tourism, Thailand has a fast-growing need for English teachers.
Why Thailand is one of the best TEFL countries in 2025:
- Good salaries and a low cost of living means that many English teachers can earn enough to save up to $250-$500 a month or more.
- Enjoy once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunities in Thailand itself and throughout Asia.
- Strong demand for English language education translates into thousands of job opportunities opening every year for TEFL-certified English teachers.
A TEFL certification is required to get hired to teach English in Thailand, and there is a very strong preference for hiring teachers from official native English-speaking nations.
Read More:
- Thailand TEFL Country Profile
- TEFL Course in Hua Hin, Thailand
- Thailand blog articles & alumni videos
- What Are the Basic Requirements to Teach English in Thailand?
- Guaranteed Job Placement Program for Teaching English in Thailand
"I teach about 30 hours per week between my Thai school and tutoring the Japanese students, and earn a salary of 40,000 Baht. I have 2 days off per week (Sunday & Monday) and also get 3 paid vacations during the year. My current situation allows me enough money to live comfortably, travel and save, as well as pay my bills back home (student loans, car payment, etc.)."
"I teach about 30 hours per week between my Thai school and tutoring the Japanese students, and earn a salary of 40,000 Baht. I have 2 days off per week (Sunday & Monday) and also get 3 paid vacations during the year. My current situation allows me enough money to live comfortably, travel and save, as well as pay my bills back home (student loans, car payment, etc.)."
12. Colombia
Boasting one of the fastest-growing economies and the second-largest population in South America, Colombia has a growing demand for English language instruction. Since the turn of the 21st century, the Colombian government has strongly encouraged English learning and has promoted bilingual education in public schools. This push for English language education has translated into a dynamic job market for those seeking to teach English in Latin America.
In addition to a healthy TEFL job market, Colombia offers a fantastic combination of dynamic cities, beautiful coastlines, lush highlands, and even rainforests. Top job markets include major cities like Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena, and Cali.
Why Colombia is one of the best TEFL countries in 2025:
- It is typical for most English teachers to gain legal employment status with a work visa.
- Many teachers can make extra money teaching English online or giving private lessons.
- Learn Spanish! According to the Translation Company, "Colombian Spanish represents a superior form which is more refined [and] more classical."
A TEFL certification is typically required to get hired to teach English in Cambodia, and there is a very strong preference for hiring teachers from official native English-speaking nations.
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"I LOVED it! I taught grades 8-11 officially and even picked up additional shifts. My school was in a rural neighborhood, and the students all lived around the area. So I saw them quite often, and ended up providing some small lessons to people in the community."
11. Cambodia
While not as large or as economically developed as some other Asian nations, Cambodia represents a fast-growing TEFL job market, where growth in sectors like tourism and increased Internet use is spurring demand for English language instruction. Many teachers are attracted by Cambodia's tropical beauty, rich history, and ancient culture. The nation's south coast is fringed with beautiful islands worth exploring, and the ancient temple city of Angkor Wat is considered one of the world's genuinely spectacular monuments.
Why Cambodia is one of the best TEFL countries in 2025:
- You will not need to have a four-year degree or be a native English speaker to get hired to teach English.
- It is also a job market that welcomes TEFL-certified teachers over the age of 40.
- Cambodia's low cost of living makes expenses like rent and travel less expensive than most other countries in the region.
- Opportunities of a lifetime to experience some of the top historical and cultural attractions in Asia like Angkor Wat.
A TEFL certification is typically required to get hired to teach English in Cambodia, and there is a very strong preference for hiring teachers from official native English-speaking nations.
Read More:
- Cambodia TEFL Country Profile
- Phnom Penh, Cambodia 4-Week TEFL Course
- Cambodia-related blog articles & alumni videos
"I would certainly recommend living in Cambodia. I would just advise you do your own research."
10. Vietnam
Since opening to international trade, investment, and tourism in the early 1990s, Vietnam has undergone significant economic and social changes, and upon arrival, you'll immediately notice the vibrant dynamism, creativity, and energy of the Vietnamese people. With its extensive coastline, majestic highlands, and vibrant cities, Vietnam caters to a wide range of interests. Additionally, with a population exceeding 100 million and an economy heavily reliant on global commerce and tourism, the demand for English language instruction is exceptionally high, making it one of the leading job markets for teaching English worldwide.
Highlights of teaching English in Vietnam:
- The low cost of living and good salaries enable English teachers in Vietnam to save up to $600 a month after expenses.
- Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a bustling, dynamic Asian city that combines modern conveniences and cosmopolitanism with traditional street markets and local color.
- Demand for English teachers is sky-high, and the government has launched has launched numerous initiatives to promote English language education.
- An ancient center of Vietnamese culture with a touch of French colonial charm, Hanoi offers an alluring combination of historical monuments, serene lakes, and bustling streets lined with colorful shops and food stalls.
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Vietnam is a great destination for working as a Digital Nomad, as you can teach English online there for up to 3 months on a tourist visa.
Read More:
- Vietnam TEFL Country Profile
- Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Accredited TEFL Course
- Vietnam Teaching English Guaranteed Job Placement Program
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9. Taiwan
If you seek to teach English in a modern Asian society with a subtropical climate, vibrant cities, and stunning natural beauty, Taiwan needs to be on your list of options. In addition, with the number of English language students in Taiwan at an all-time high, demand for TEFL-certified English teachers is strong, especially as the island nation has announced plans to make English a second official language by 2030.
Why Taiwan is one of the best TEFL countries in 2025:
- With a low cost of living and strong salaries, most first-time English teachers make enough to save up to $500 a month or even more after expenses.
- As an island nation with a subtropical climate and loads of coastline, Taiwan offers excellent outdoor recreational opportunities in addition to a rich history and great cuisine.
A TEFL certification is typically required to get hired in Taiwan, and there is a very strong preference for hiring teachers from official native English-speaking nations.
Read More:
- Taiwan TEFL Country Profile
- What are the Basic Requirements to Teach English in Taiwan?
- TEFL Taiwan blog articles, videos & alumni stories
"Never leaving my own country before, I mainly chose this teaching position because they helped me with everything such as setting up a taxi upon my arrival, helping me find an apartment, setting up a bank account etc. It made me feel much better about my experience knowing I would have help along the way."
8. Kuwait
For those seeking to experience the Middle East and the Persian Gulf, Kuwait offers high-paying opportunities and a job market that is less competitive than some other countries in the region, like the United Arab Emirates and Oman. In addition, Kuwait's location provides excellent travel opportunities to destinations like Dubai, the Eastern Mediterranean, and even India.
Why Kuwait is one of the best TEFL countries in 2025:
- While hiring requirements are more stringent, English teachers enjoy some of the highest salaries in the field, as pay can range from $2,500 - $6,000 a month, and benefits include free housing and flights to and from the teacher’s home country. To learn more about salaries, please read What Are Salaries for English Teachers in the Middle East?
- Large expatriate communities, where teachers can socialize with other English speakers, make the transition for newcomers to the region much more manageable.
A TEFL certification is required to be hired in Kuwait, and there is a strong preference for hiring teachers from official native English-speaking nations. In addition, many positions require previous experience and a degree in education, so a first-time teacher should expect to be flexible and patient with their job search.
Read More:
"I would very much recommend teaching in Kuwait. I enjoy the occasional escape room, bowling session, karaoke, strolls through the park, hangouts by the pool, salon visits with friends, rooftop chill sessions, a new restaurant everyday? Why not!"
7. Mexico
With 24 million Mexicans learning English, Mexico represents one of the largest TEFL job markets in the Western Hemisphere. Throw in amazing natural beauty, thousands of years of history, dynamic cities, gorgeous coastlines, and internationally renowned cuisine, and it's easy to see why Mexico is a top job market for teaching English abroad.
Why Mexico is attractive for TEFL jobs abroad:
- English teachers in Mexico can get a work visa that not only provides a legal right to work, but also access to the national healthcare system.
- Hiring requirements in Mexico are less stringent than in some other countries, making Mexico a viable option for those who do not possess a college degree, non-native English speakers, and those above the age of 40 (including retirees!).
A TEFL certification is required to become a foreign ESL teacher abroad in Mexico.
Read More:
- Mexico TEFL Country Profile
- Guadalajara, Mexico TEFL Course Overview
- Blog articles, videos & alumni stories about teaching English in Mexico
"There are a lot of great things in Guadalajara, Mexico! Jalisco is the birth place of Tequila and Mariachi music, there are many historical places within driving distance, and the food is great!"
6. Japan
One of the oldest and largest TEFL job markets in the world, Japan offers a wide variety of English teaching opportunities both in private language schools (known as eikawa) as well as in public schools through popular government initiatives like the Jet Program, which recruits up to 3,000 Americans annually to assistant English teachers in Japanese elementary, middle, and high schools.
Why Japan is one of the best TEFL countries in 2025:
- Huge demand: According to a 2022 report from market research firm Statista, there are more than 16 million active English learners in Japan, and more than 40% of school children are learning English annually.
- English teachers in Japan typically receive strong salaries & benefits. While pay and benefits will vary, many teachers in Japan receive benefits like a free apartment or a housing allowance, and many can save up to $500 - $800 a month after expenses.
A TEFL certification is typically required to get hired in Japan, and there is a very strong preference for hiring teachers from official native English-speaking nations. Prior teaching experience is also not required to find ESL jobs abroad in Japan.
Read More:
- Japan TEFL Country Profile
- TEFL Certification Courses in Japan
- What are the Basic Requirements to Teach English in Japan?
- TEFL Japan blog articles, videos & alumni stories
- Guaranteed Job Placement Program for Teaching English in Japan
"I travel a lot. More than I should. It's just easy here! Flying anywhere in the country is majorly cheap, and the extensive train system helps make even the harder to get to parts easily accessible.If you come to Japan, the country is at your finger tips."
5. Hungary
Hungary is a fast-growing English teaching market in the heart of Europe for international ESL jobs. Many first-time English teachers get hired in Hungary via the Central European Teaching Program (CETP), which places teachers in teaching positions throughout the country. While not as popular or well known as some other European countries, Hungary does offer an attractive combination of history, culture, architecture, and a location in the heart of Europe that makes a great base for traveling throughout the continent. In addition, the cost of living is lower than in most Western European nations.
Why Hungary is attractive for TEFL jobs abroad:
- Teachers pay a placement fee for this program, but there are some fantastic benefits for those who teach in Hungary through CETP, including a solid salary, accommodations, and paid vacation time.
- CETP hires teachers in advance from their home country.
A TEFL certification is required to become a foreign ESL teacher abroad in Hungary and a bachelor's degree is required.
Read More:
"I'd definitely recommend teaching English in Hungary. It's a wonderful country full of history, good food, good people and amazing architecture!"
4. The Czech Republic
Known for its fantastic architecture and world-class beer, the Czech Republic has long been a top TEFL job market in Europe. Benefits include a lower cost of living than some other Western European nations and its location in the heart of Europe makes it an ideal base for travel throughout the continent.
Why the Czech Republic is an attractive destination for teaching English abroad jobs:
- You can live a comfortable lifestyle as an English teacher in the Czech Republic thanks to a solid hourly wage.
- You can expect to work around 20-25 hours per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore Europe.
- You can find summer job opportunities at English language camps.
- Its location in the heart of Europe makes it a great base for European travel.
A TEFL certification is required, and a bachelor’s degree is also typically (thought not always) required to get hired as an ESL teacher in the Czech Republic.
Read More:
- Czech Republic TEFL Country Profile
- What Are the Basic Requirements to Teach English in the Czech Republic?
- Blog articles, videos & alumni stories for teaching English in Czech Republic
'My first year, I was hustling. Now, I would consider myself upper-middle class by Czech standards. I would say I am quite comfortable and satisfied.'
3. Costa Rica
Costa Rica has always been an attractive destination for teaching English overseas. Boasting a tropical climate with a low cost of living and proximity to the U.S., it's easy to understand why Costa Rica is a popular destination for teaching English, especially for those looking to work on their Spanish. With a growing economy dependent largely on tourism and international commerce, demand for English language proficiency is driving an increased need for TEFL-certified teachers, especially in language institutes and private high schools and grade schools.
Why Costa Rica is one of the best countries to teach in 2025:
- You can live a comfortable lifestyle as an English teacher in Costa Rica thanks to a solid hourly wage, a low cost of living, and affordable start-up costs when transitioning into the country.
- You can expect to work around 20-25 hours per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore the region.
- There are fewer hiring restrictions when it comes to age, citizenship, and whether or not you have a degree.
To become an ESL teacher abroad in Costa Rica, a TEFL certification is required but a bachelor's degree is not required by all employers.
Read More:
- Costa Rica TEFL Country Profile
- What Are the Basic Requirements to Teach English in Costa Rica?
- 8 Reasons Why Costa Rica is the Best Country for Teaching English Abroad Over 40
"My standard of living is pretty comfortable. I love my apartment; it's in a safe neighborhood, very cute, and literally a few steps from the beach.'
2. Spain
One great aspect of the TEFL job market in Spain is that there are many different types of teaching opportunities, from teaching business professionals in private language schools to working as an assistant English teacher in a local high school or grade school. There is a huge market for private lessons and English teachers can make extra cash teaching English online as well.
As such, we've started to see more teachers move to Spain with teaching programs and enter the country on a student visa. The Spanish government programs are also now recruiting for the 2025-2025 academic year. Therefore Spain is a strong contestant on this list of best countries to teach English in 2025.
Why is Spain one of the best TEFL countries that need English teachers in 2025:
- ESL Job opportunities are abundant, from government and student visa programs to English summer camps and private tutoring in person or online.
- You can expect to work around 20-25 hours per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore Spain and the rest of Europe.
- According to the British Council, there are more than 4,000 private language institutes in Spain providing English language instruction, creating a large demand for teachers.
To become an ESL teacher abroad in Spain, you must have a TEFL certification. Though some schools strongly prefer a bachelor’s degree, Costa Rica is a top market for those without a four-year college degree.
Read More:
- Spain TEFL Country Profile
- Teach & Study Visa Programs for Teaching English in Spain (Madrid & Barcelona)
- Visas for Teaching English in Spain
- What are the Requirements For Teaching English in Spain?
'Living and teaching in Spain has been, by far, the best experience of my life. I would highly recommend moving to another country to teach.'
1. South Korea
South Korea is no stranger to our top teaching markets list at ITA and is one of the world's largest and strongest English teaching markets. One of the most dynamic and modern countries in Asia, South Korea is known for its vibrant cities, unique cuisine, and up-and-coming popular culture. It also offers English teachers some of the highest salaries and best benefits in the world. Increasing English fluency has been made a top priority and government programs, like the popular EPIK program, are now recruiting for the 2025-2025 academic year, as are thousands of private schools (known as "hagwons"). As a result, South Korea is one of the top ESL countries for 2025.
Why South Korea is one of the best countries hiring English teachers in 2025:
- Excellent salaries & saving opportunities:
- Airfare and housing are typically paid for and provided by local English schools.
- Salary ranges from $1,600-$2,000 USD. You can expect to save up to 50% of your salary after expenses.
- A typical contract for a first-time English teacher in Korea includes a free return flight, paid vacation, and a 1-month salary bonus.
To qualify for international ESL jobs in South Korea, teachers must have a bachelor’s degree, hold citizenship from a recognized English-speaking nation, and pass a clean FBI background check.
Read More:
- South Korea TEFL Country Profile
- TEFL Certification Courses in Korea
- What are the basic requirements to teach English in Korea?
- What is the EPIK Program for Teaching English in South Korea?
- Guaranteed Job Placement Program for Teaching English in South Korea
''Im able to save a lot of money while still paying off loans back home and traveling around Asia. There aren't many jobs that allow you to do that!'
BONUS OPTION: Teaching English Online
The industry of teaching English online was booming even before COVID-19, and demand for TEFL-certified English teachers increased substantially during the pandemic. It’s important to note that all online English schools operate differently and maintain different hiring requirements. It’s possible to teach English online without a bachelor’s degree and without prior teaching experience, though you may have a more competitive job search.
Teaching English online has proven to be a realistic side hustle or even a full-time job that you can safely do from home or while gallivanting your way across Europe, Southeast Asia, or Latin America as a Digital Nomad. Pay for online English teachers varies depending on the school and your credentials, but the average rate is $10-$20 per hour. More experienced teachers, especially those who run their own private lessons, can earn higher hourly rates.
Learn More:
- How to Teach English Abroad as a Digital Nomad
- Teach English Online: 8 FAQs to Get You Started
- How Much Money Can I Make Teaching English Online?
- Teaching English Online TEFL Specialty Course
"I am able to set my own own hours, rates and lesson materials which provides me with a lifestyle that never feels like I’m working.'Where Can I Teach English Abroad with All Expenses Paid?
Compensation packages for English teachers abroad can differ based on the school and country. In countries like South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and occasionally China, schools are more likely to offer perks such as housing, airfare, paid vacation, and other desirable benefits.
Read More: Top 5 Countries to Make the Money Teaching English Abroad
Helpful Tips For Making Your TEFL Experience a Success
Here are some key tips to help you make the most of your experience teaching English abroad.
Take an Accredited TEFL Certification
While prior teaching experience and holding a college degree are not mandatory requirements to teach English abroad, enrolling in an accredited TEFL certification course (TEFL = Teaching English as a Foreign Language) can equip you with the necessary skills and qualifications to secure a teaching position and deliver a high-quality educational experience to your students.
Read more:
- What is TEFL & TEFL Certification for Teaching English Abroad?
- Accredited Online & In-Person TEFL Certification Course Index
- Why Accreditation for TEFL Courses is Essential
Teach English to Private Students
Tutoring private students in English as a second language is a multi-billion dollar global industry with opportunities in virtually every nation. Many English teachers abroad or in their home country will offer private English lessons to supplement their income, while others may make it a full-time career. In addition to earning more income, taking on private students provides a great way to meet folks in your community while you teach abroad.
To boost your earnings, consider specializing in teaching Test Preparation for Standardized English Proficiency Exams. Each year, millions of individuals worldwide enroll in specialized courses to prepare for exams like TOEFL, IELTS, and TOEIC. Success in these assessments is crucial for those aiming to gain entry into English-speaking universities or secure jobs requiring strong English skills. Many test-takers are willing to invest significantly in tailored instruction from qualified English educators to help them excel. As an English teacher, you can anticipate earning $35-$55 per hour preparing students for these exams, a higher rate compared to the typical $10-$25 per hour for general private tutoring sessions.
Read more:
- Can I Make Money as a Private Tutor when I Teach English Abroad?
- Teaching Test Prep Skills TEFL Specialty Course
- English Tutoring TEFL Specialty Course
Can I Teach English in Countries Not on This List?
Yes! With more than 2 billion people learning and using English according to the British Council, there are more than 80 countries worldwide with viable job markets for teaching English abroad, and even without a college degree, there are more than 50 nations where you can teach with a TEFL certification.
Thoroughly Research Your Options for TEFL Certification & Teaching English Abroad
Understanding your options and how the process of teaching English abroad works in different countries is essential if you are going to have a successful experience teaching English overseas. Every country is different and while there are thousands and thousands of job opportunities that you will likely qualify for, understanding the requirements and the hiring process, including matters like visas, in each one is important. Here are some top resources to learn more about the process of getting TEFL certified and teaching English abroad.
The International TEFL Academy Ultimate Resource List
- TEFL Country Comparison Chart - compare information about salaries, visas, & hiring requirements for teaching English in more than 60 nations worldwide.
- TEFL Country Profiles - From salaries to hiring requirements, check out in-depth overviews of English teaching job markets in more than 60 countries
- No Degree? No Problem! Top 6 Countries for Teaching English Abroad without a Degree
- Top Countries for Teaching English Abroad if You're Over 40
- 7-Step Plan for Teaching English Abroad in 2025
- TEFL Ebooks & Country Guides
- Alumni Videos
- ITA Blog - Check out hundreds of articles & alumni stories about teaching abroad & TEFL certification.
- Guaranteed Job Placement Programs in Asia
- TEFL Course Index Dates & Tuition
- You can also access loads of information about teaching abroad, including various programs for TEFL certification, volunteer programs, placement programs, and more at the Teaching Abroad sections of GoAbroad.com and GoOverseas.com.
Build Your Skill Set & Marketability with Advanced TEFL Training
Developing your expertise and honing your skills in TEFL opens doors to advancement opportunities, such as promotions, salary enhancements, and eligibility for coveted positions at prestigious universities and renowned international schools that offer competitive salaries and perks.
Furthermore, engaging in specialized, advanced training not only enhances your teaching abilities but also propels your career forward. Schools, students, and their families seek teachers with advanced training, making you a sought-after candidate and increasing your chances of securing top-tier positions at leading institutions.
Here are six advanced TEFL training courses to help you build your ESL teaching skills and boost your resume:
- Foundations of English Grammar
- Teaching English to Young Learners
- Teaching Business English
- Teaching English Online
- Teaching Test Prep Skills
- Tutoring English
Many folks who get TEFL certified are looking to only teach English abroad for a year or two. Should you decide that you want to make teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) your primary career, you may want to invest in a degree in a field like TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), which is often required to teach English in public schools in the U.S.
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