Tag Archives: live abroad

Some Things You Should Know About Teaching English in Vietnam

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Vietnam is one of the best places in Asia for teaching English. An interesting culture, stunning natural scenery and huge demand for English tuition make it one of the most popular destinations. Most jobs are in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) and it is worth reading up on the different characteristics of the two cities in order to be able to focus on vacancies in your preferred location. Salaries are perhaps the best in the Mekong region and there is a lively expat scene in both main cities.

Salaries start at $1,200 USD per month and go up to $2,000 USD per month, sometimes a bit higher at international schools.  Most jobs are found in the cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Haiphong.  Hiring schools prefer for you to have a degree, TEFL certification and over 1 year of teaching experience.  If you do not have a degree but have over 5 years of teaching experience then it is still possible to obtain a work permit.  There is a lot of work available, so if you are not getting enough hours from your full time employer you can always teach part time for a second school or language center.

Normally teachers arrive on a tourist visa and then convert it into a business visa with the help of their employer. Unlike neighbouring countries, you do not have to leave Vietnam and return on the new visa. However, a work permit also requires a health check and a criminal records check from your country of origin. If possible, obtain a criminal records check before arriving in Vietnam because it costs more and takes longer if you try to get one once you have arrived. The work permit is valid for 3 years and allows you annual business visas sponsored by your employer.

Transport, food and accommodation are all quite cheap in Vietnam but bear in mind that you will probably be charged more for many goods because you are a foreigner.  Salary tax should be taken care of by your employer. Normally you should expect to receive your salary on a monthly basis.

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TEFL Zorritos: What could be better?  Study in a beautiful Peruvian beach town, free surfing lessons, great accommodations available, including delicious local food.  Fully accredited 160 Hour TEFL course with a practical approach that provides you with 5 advanced certifications at absolutely no extra cost!  And a guaranteed job waiting for you when you complete the course.

Class sizes are limited, so don’t wait, make your reservation today!​

Some Things You Should Know About Teaching English in the Philippines

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The Philippines is a collection of beautiful tropical islands where living costs are low. The only trouble is, the local people generally speak such excellent English that there is little demand for native English teachers. However, the growing Korean population in the Philippines seek tuition at language centres and if you have a relevant MA or PGCE (or equivalent) then you may find work at a university or International School.

If you have the above qualifications then you can expect a salary of from $1,000 USD to 2,500 USD per month.  The best paid jobs are found primarily in Manila, Baguio and Cebu.  Again, if you do not have at least a Masters Degree, TEFL certification and over 2 years of teaching experience, your chances of finding a paid English teaching job in the Philippines is very slim.  Also be sure that your employer provides you with the correct and legal work permits.  Working illegally in the Philippines will get you deported, fined and possible jail time.

Unless you are working at a university or International School it’s best to arrive in the Philippines on a tourist visa and then ask your employer to arrange a work permit. There are tight restrictions on this (unless you happen to be married to a local).  Food, drink and transport are all cheap but accommodation prices vary dramatically depending on on your budget and location.  Your employer is normally responsible for arranging the payment of your income tax. Salary will usually be paid on a monthly basis.

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TEFL Zorritos: What could be better?  Study in a beautiful Peruvian beach town, free surfing lessons, great accommodations available, including delicious local food.  Fully accredited 160 Hour TEFL course with a practical approach that provides you with 5 advanced certifications at absolutely no extra cost!  And a guaranteed job waiting for you when you complete the course.

Class sizes are limited, so don’t wait, make your reservation today!

Some Things You Should Know About Teaching English in Nepal

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Nepal is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world and there are actually many TEFL opportunities in this beautiful country. Admittedly most of these positions are voluntary but paid work can be found in Kathmandu by the persistent and experienced. Don’t expect to make a large salary – not that you’ll need one given that living costs are so low – and remind yourself of the positive impact your hard work can have on the local Nepalese people.

Paid teaching jobs in Nepal are found primarily in Kathmandu and you can expect a salary of from $500 to $1,000 USD.  Realistically, expect your salary to be closer to the $500 USD amount.  Like most schools in Asia, teachers should have a degree, a TEFL certification and preferably two years of teaching experience.  Don’t expect to find a job in Nepal by surfing the internet.  You need to be in Nepal and plan on doing some leg work and making connections if you hope to find a paid teaching position.  If you don’t have a degree, a TEFL certificate and at least some experience then you are advised to not seek paid employment in Nepal.  You will be better served volunteering or working in another country until you have some experience.

You will need to arrive in Nepal on a tourist visa and request that your employer arrange a work permit for you.  Although salaries are low compared to other Asian countries, the cost of food, transport and accommodations are very low in Nepal.  Typically salaries are paid on a monthly basis and your employer is responsible for paying any income tax that is owed.   

Nepal is a destination for teachers who want to make a contribution to the local Nepal people.  You can think of it as place to work on your spiritual rather than your job related skills.  Of course teaching the Nepal people who are gentle and kind by nature will be an experience you will never forget.

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TEFL Zorritos: What could be better?  Study in a beautiful Peruvian beach town, free surfing lessons, great accommodations available, including delicious local food.  Fully accredited 160 Hour TEFL course with a practical approach that provides you with 5 advanced certifications at absolutely no extra cost!  And a guaranteed job waiting for you when you complete the course.

Class sizes are limited, so don’t wait, make your reservation today!

Some Things You Should Know About Teaching English in Japan

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Well-known for being one of the most expensive countries in the world to live in, it can be expensive to make the move to Japan. However, teaching salaries are high – especially for those with experience or those on the JET program.

There are various different options to consider but it is inadvisable to arrive in Japan before you have secured a position. Eikaiwa (English conversation schools), such as AEON, ECC and Berlitz, are good for urban placements but offer lower salaries. Local elementary and high schools employ English ALTs (Assistant Language Teachers) and most of these positions are found via recruitment agencies such as Interac. Finally, the JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) program has an excellent reputation and is by far the best option, salary-wise, unless you have the qualifications and experience required for the lucrative yet elusive positions in International Schools. Be aware that JET participants are often given placements in rural areas and are expected to be ‘cultural ambassadors’ for their country of origin. Interviews for ALT/JET positions are held in cities in Canada, USA, UK etc. The JET program even offers some positions to non-native English speakers.

Salaries in Japan start at around $2,000 USD per month and go as high as $5,000 USD per month at some of the better international schools.  Jobs are available nation-wide, with the cost of living and salaries slightly lower in rural areas.  You will need a degree and a TEFL certificate plus at least one year of experience to teach in Japan.  You need to plan ahead. Recruitment agencies have strict annual deadlines for applications. These deadlines vary according to your country of citizenship. Bear in mind that positions are limited and there is considerable competition for them.  Think carefully whether you would prefer to teach in an urban or rural area. When applying for teaching positions, make sure you emphasize your interest in the culture of Japan and mention any language skills you have already. Your resume should be meticulously detailed.  A degree is obligatory for those hoping to teach in Japan as you cannot get a work permit without one. Given that accommodation costs are so high, you will need some savings to help you through the initial period.

The cost of accommodation in Japan is very high and securing an apartment is expensive as you will have to pay agent fees and a large deposit. Medical costs can be astronomical so make sure health insurance is included in your contract or else arrange it yourself beforehand. Travelling in Japan is expensive but highly efficient.

Income tax is paid by your employer at the end of each month and you will be given a pay slip detailing relevant deductions.

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TEFL Zorritos: What could be better?  Study in a beautiful Peruvian beach town, free surfing lessons, great accommodations available, including delicious local food.  Fully accredited 160 Hour TEFL course with a practical approach that provides you with 5 advanced certifications at absolutely no extra cost!  And a guaranteed job waiting for you when you complete the course.

Class sizes are limited, so don’t wait, make your reservation today!

Some Things You Should Know About Teaching English in India

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India is the third largest English-speaking country in the world, the English language is spoken throughout the nation. There are lots of voluntary positions to be found online but it is surprisingly difficult to locate many well-paid positions from internet searches. Experienced EFL teachers are encouraged to contact the British Council in India as the salaries and conditions are very good. Because of the common use of English in India, teaching opportunities are significantly less than in other Asian nations.

Salaries start as low as $500 USD per month and top out at about $2,500 USD per month at the British Council.  Since India prefers British English, native speakers from the UK will have an obvious advantage when job hunting.  A degree and TEFL certification with at least two years of experience is typically required for paid teaching positions.  It is not typically a wise choice to travel to India in hopes of finding a paid teaching position in country.  If you want to work in India as a paid teacher, it is best to arrange a contract in advance with the British Council or an international school.  If you would just like to volunteer teach during your stay in India then there are many opportunities for you.

Unless you are working for the British Council or an international school, you will probably have to enter the country on a tourist visa.  The process for obtaining a work visa is lengthy and tedious.  Few schools will go to the trouble to obtain a work visa for you.  The cost of accommodation and food in India is very low. Western food imported from abroad is generally expensive.  Salary is paid on a monthly basis. Tax is usually paid by employers.

Cultural differences between the “west” and India can cause significant strain on someone not accustomed to the way things work in India.  Patience, flexibility and endurance are qualities that you must possess to survive in this culture.  Women are especially advised to take extra care when out alone.  

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TEFL Zorritos: What could be better?  Study in a beautiful Peruvian beach town, free surfing lessons, great accommodations available, including delicious local food.  Fully accredited 160 Hour TEFL course with a practical approach that provides you with 5 advanced certifications at absolutely no extra cost!  And a guaranteed job waiting for you when you complete the course.

Class sizes are limited, so don’t wait, make your reservation today!

Some Things You Should Know About Teaching English in Hong Kong

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Hong Kong is an exciting place to live and work. An efficient transport network and first-class infrastructure make it one of the most popular destinations in the region for those seeking an orderly and secure place in which to live. Teachers’ salaries in Hong Kong are often very attractive indeed. Unfortunately this is necessary because of the unbelievably high rental prices across the territory. Given that English is supposed to be a national language the level of spoken English in Hong Kong is actually fairly low. There are plenty of opportunities for experienced teachers but many employers prefer to employ those who already have Hong Kong residency as the process is much easier. Sadly a workaholic mentality pervades and stress levels can be high sometimes.  If you are looking for a laid-back place to live, then you should definitely give Hong Kong a pass.

Salaries typically start at around $1,500 USD a month and go upwards to $5,000 USD a month at some of the better international schools.  There are jobs throughout Hong Kong, with no particular area offering better jobs than another area.  Typically Hong Kong schools require a degree, preferably in English or TESOL and a TEFL certification.  Hong Kong has a very definite workaholic culture so don’t be surprised if long hours and 6 or 7 days a week of working are required by your school.  Even if your contract does not call for these hours, you will be pressured to work additional hours well beyond your contractual hours.  Experienced teachers are advised to research the Primary or Secondary NET (Native English Teacher) scheme and apply well in advance at the appropriate time. Inexperienced teachers are advised to get some experience elsewhere first!

When searching for accommodation, make sure you negotiate with your agent or landlord. If they know you are a teacher with limited funds they may be willing to lessen their financial demands. Many agents seek two months rent as deposit and half a month as a fee. Given that accommodation is so expensive, this can be a huge sum in total.

If you have not been offered a job before you arrive in Hong Kong then not only will you face a rather tough search for a well-paid position but you will also have to wait many weeks for your work visa to be issued after you have signed a contract. Given that accommodation costs are so high, you will need some savings to help you through this lengthy period.  You are advised to secure a position before traveling to Hong Kong.  When your visa does arrive, you will normally take a ferry to Macau and back again the same day to re-enter with you work visa.

The cost of accommodations in Hong Kong is incredibly high. Unless you are sharing you will find it very difficult to live on Hong Kong island. The cheapest places to live are Lantau, Lamma and the furthest reaches of the New Territories. Thankfully, electricity, water and gas are all priced rather low. Transport is also very cheap – including taxis.  Eating in is cheap but eating and drinking out can be very expensive unless you know of special deals.

Income tax is paid on an annual basis and it is the employee’s responsibility. This means you need to budget and make sure you save enough over the year so you can pay off the hefty bill when it arrives. It also means you need to fill in a tax return form.  Don’t even consider not paying your income taxes or not filing a tax form.  Failure to do so can mean at least deportation and at worst a hefty fine and lengthy jail time.  

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TEFL Zorritos: What could be better?  Study in a beautiful Peruvian beach town, free surfing lessons, great accommodations available, including delicious local food.  Fully accredited 160 Hour TEFL course with a practical approach that provides you with 5 advanced certifications at absolutely no extra cost!  And a guaranteed job waiting for you when you complete the course.

Class sizes are limited, so don’t wait, make your reservation today!

Some Things You Should Know About Teaching English in Myanmar (Burma)

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Myanmar (Burma) is a fascinating place to be at the moment as the nation slowly opens up to the world. Because of this, there are a large number of opportunities (both voluntary and paid) for English teachers, but many are not advertised online. Myanmar has beautiful scenery and a fascinating culture. It is safe to live there as a foreigner as long as you do not openly discuss the politics of the country but bear in mind that power cuts are common and can be quite frustrating when planning class activities reliant on electricity. Flexibility and patience are important qualities that will be required.

Typical salaries start at about $1,000 USD per month and rise to over $2,000 USD per month for good international schools.  The majority of jobs are in the two major cities, Yangon (Rangoon) and Mandalay.  Schools will expect the standard qualification for Asia which are typically a degree, TEFL certification and 1-2 years of experience as a teacher.

You might want to consider doing some volunteer work in your spare time as it can be of huge benefit to local people.  Be careful about discussing local politics openly.  Make sure that your employer has agreed to pay the costs associated with the business visa before signing a contract.  The situation is such that most employees arrive in Myanmar on a tourist visa. This is then converted into a business visa. Having a business visa entails flying out to Thailand to renew it every 7 weeks (at the expense of your employer). Whether this is a good or not is a matter for you to decide.

Local food and transportation costs are low but accommodation is rather expensive. It is standard to pay for up to twelve months in advance so arrange accommodation as part of your employment contract if at all possible.  Employers are generally responsible for paying taxes and salaries are usually paid on a monthly basis.

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TEFL Zorritos: What could be better?  Study in a beautiful Peruvian beach town, free surfing lessons, great accommodations available, including delicious local food.  Fully accredited 160 Hour TEFL course with a practical approach that provides you with 5 advanced certifications at absolutely no extra cost!  And a guaranteed job waiting for you when you complete the course.

Class sizes are limited, so don’t wait, make your reservation today!

Some Things You Should Know About Teaching English in Laos

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Laos is one of the most laid-back countries in which to teach, although it can be difficult for first-timers to find anything more than offers of part-time work paid by the hour. A small number of education centers will offer full-time contracts and pay for visa costs for teachers who are experienced in teaching in Asia. There are numerous opportunities to volunteer in more rural areas, but almost all paid positions are in the rather sleepy capital of Vientiane.  The EFL market is expanding slowly, but steadily, however it is almost impossible to find a job unless you are in country for a personal interview.  If you are looking for exciting night life or lots of entertainment, you will be disappointed in Laos.  Laos is for the really laid-back individual who likes a slow and easy pace.  Most of all, if you are going to live and work in Laos, you will need a lot of patience.  Things move slowly here and shouting or aggressive behaviour will not make things move any faster.

Salaries for teachers start at around $800 USD a month and top out at around $1,500 USD a month at a good international school.  However, don’t expect to start a full time position immediately, typically it takes time and patience to eventually find full time work.  You will probably have to start part-time hourly work earning from $10 – 20 USD per hour.  Most paid jobs are found in the capital Vientiane.  If you are looking for volunteer work, there are opportunities country wide in Laos.

Hiring schools will usually want their teachers to have a Degree and TEFL certification.  Most employers will arrange a visa for you. It is normal to enter on a tourist visa before applying for the work visa. Some employers will expect you to pay for your work visa (approximately 300 USD per year).

The cost of accommodation in Laos is low, but rising in Vientiane. Local food and transportation costs are very low.  Schools usually pay in US dollars. Employers are responsible for income tax.

One final word of advice if you are single you should be aware of strict laws in Laos regarding personal relationships between locals and foreigners.  You should always obey the laws in Laos.  The level of corruption is quite high and you could find yourself deported at the least or with a lengthy jail term for not obeying Laos laws.  Laos is definitely not a place where you want to be in prison.

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TEFL Zorritos: What could be better?  Study in a beautiful Peruvian beach town, free surfing lessons, great accommodations available, including delicious local food.  Fully accredited 160 Hour TEFL course with a practical approach that provides you with 5 advanced certifications at absolutely no extra cost!  And a guaranteed job waiting for you when you complete the course.

Class sizes are limited, so don’t wait, make your reservation today!

Some Things You Should Know About Teaching English in Ecuador

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Ecuador Overview

The level of demand for native speakers is rather low but most TEFL-qualified teachers can find jobs in the capital city. Unfortunately, TEFL salaries are relatively low and despite low living costs you certainly won’t be able to save much, if at all. TEFL in Ecuador is a fun experience for a short period of time but certainly not a serious career option.

Type of Institution Typical salary (USD/month) Typical hours Typical annual leave
Language centres 600 – 1,200 Various split shifts and evenings and weekends 2 weeks plus national holidays
International schools and universities 2,500 upwards 9am – 4pm Monday to Friday plus some weekend work 10 weeks plus national holidays

 

Main places for jobs

Quito, Cuenca.

Typical requirements

Degree, TEFL, local interview preferred.

Tips

1. It is much better to find a job before arriving in Ecuador but in reality the vast majority of teachers arrive on tourist visas and remain on them due to the cost and bureaucracy and unwillingness of most employers to apply for proper work permits.

2. Given the low salaries, you may need to supplement your income with extra, private one-to-one tuition. Contacts are essential and found via word of mouth and through local adverts and websites.

3. American and Canadian teachers may be at a slight advantage. Those who can speak Spanish will find integration much easier.

Red tape

Your employer is responsible for obtaining your work permit. However, in reality, many work illegally. Despite the flexibility this allows, this is not recommended for obvious reasons. Top employers will actually go through the troublesome process of making your employment legal. Without this, you are always at risk of being deported.

Cost of living

The cost of living in Ecuador is low.

Tax and salary information

You should expect to be paid on a monthly basis. Make sure you actually have a contract or else you may have problems when it comes to payday.

 

References

http://worldoftefl.com/teaching-english-in-ecuador/

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TEFL Zorritos: What could be better?  Study in a beautiful Peruvian beach town, free surfing lessons, great accommodations available, including delicious local food.  Fully accredited 160 Hour TEFL course with a practical approach that provides you with 5 advanced certifications at absolutely no extra cost!  And a guaranteed job waiting for you when you complete the course.

Class sizes are limited, so don’t wait, make your reservation today!

Some Things You Should Know About Teaching English in Uruguay

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Uruguay is a great country for the adventurous. The level of demand for native speakers in Uruguay is moderately high and the crime rate is one of the lowest in Latin America. Unfortunately, TEFL salaries are relatively low and despite low living costs you certainly won’t be able to save much, if at all. As in most Latin American countries the students are lively and sociable and therefore a pleasure to teach. Employers at some language centers can be unreliable and have unreasonable demands such as the common one that you are effectively ‘on call’ from 8am to 8pm or similar. You are rarely paid for travelling from one location or class to another and this can take up a significant chunk of your daily schedule. If you are experienced and hard-working then you may be lucky to find one of the few well-paid positions, such as those at bilingual schools. For the majority, however, TEFL in Uruguay is a fun experience for a short period of time but only rarely a serious long-term career option.

Type of Institution Typical salary (USD/month) Typical hours Typical annual leave
Language centers 500 – 1,000 Various split shifts and evenings and weekends 2 weeks plus national holidays
International schools and universities 2,500 upwards 9am – 4pm Monday to Friday plus some weekend work 10 weeks plus national holidays

Main places for jobs

Montevideo.

Typical requirements

Degree, TEFL preferred, local interview preferred.

Tips

1. A TEFL certificate is not strictly necessary, but you will find that if you have one you are eligible for better jobs and better pay. You’ll also be a more confident teacher.

2. Given the low salaries, you may need to supplement your income with extra, private one-to-one tuition. Contacts are essential and found via word of mouth and through local adverts and websites. Bear in mind that punctuality is less important in Uruguay than in the West so it is quite common for students to turn up late!

3. American and Canadian teachers may be at a slight advantage. Teachers with Spanish language skills will find settling in a lot easier.

Red tape

Your employer is responsible for obtaining your work permit. However, in reality, many work illegally. Despite the flexibility this allows, this is not recommended for obvious reasons. Most teachers arrive on a tourist visa which can be converted into a work visa without having to leave the country.

Cost of living

The cost of living is low but you will probably have to share accommodation with another teacher to begin with. Transport is especially cheap and efficient in Montevideo.

Tax and salary information

You should expect to be paid on a monthly basis. Make sure you actually have a contract or else you may have problems when it comes to payday.

References

http://worldoftefl.com/teaching-english-in-uruguay/

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TEFL Zorritos: What could be better?  Study in a beautiful Peruvian beach town, free surfing lessons, great accommodations available, including delicious local food.  Fully accredited 160 Hour TEFL course with a practical approach that provides you with 5 advanced certifications at absolutely no extra cost!  And a guaranteed job waiting for you when you complete the course.

Class sizes are limited, so don’t wait, make your reservation today!