Best Countries in Southeast Asia to Teach English

Are you considering moving to Southeast Asia to teach English? First off, congratulations! The first step to beginning an epic and life-changing experience is making the decision to move! Understandably, it can be difficult to decide which country to move to. Each country in Southeast Asia is unique and special in its own way. This is why we have put together an overview of the best countries in Southeast Asia to teach English and what life is like living and teaching there!

Taiwan

Taiwan is one of the best countries to teach English abroad in Southeast Asia due to the low cost of living and high paying positions (anywhere from $2,000 USD and up). However, apart from a well-paying position, this country also offers visitors a unique look at Chinese culture, cuisine, and architecture. With stunning landscapes, countless festivals (be sure to check out the lantern festival and balloon fiesta), the kind demeanor of the locals, and its overall safety, it is no wonder Taiwan is one of the best places to teach English in Southeast Asia. 

Requirements: 

• Degree from a 4-year university 
• Background check 
• Preference for native speakers
• Preference for those with a TEFL certification 

Teach English in Thailand

Thailand is by far one of the most popular destinations for Expats to teach English. With such a diverse country, world-renowned destinations and attractions, it isn’t hard to see why it is such a popular place! Typically, teachers work office hours 730 – 4, Monday to Friday and pay begins around 30,000 baht (980 USD/887 Euro) and increases based on your experience and qualifications. 

On days off, teachers can easily travel around the country spending time playing with Elephants in Chiang Mai or partying in Pattaya. Time off varies based on the school, however, most schools’ calendars have all of the national holidays off. 

Requirements:

• TEFL Certificate
• Degree from a 4-year university
• Be a native English speaker or have the ability to prove your fluency (i.e. TOEIC score or IELTS score)

Teach English in Vietnam

Vietnam is by far one of the best countries to teach in Southeast Asia in terms of pay. The positions also tend to be more flexible and pay teachers based on the hours worked rather than a monthly salary. Although this will depend on the school or position you have. 

When you are not working, spend your days indulging in Bahn Mi, trekking in Sapa, or walking through thousands of lanterns in Hoi An. Vietnam’s beautiful and diverse landscape offers something for everyone. It also offers hundreds of affordable flights to neighboring countries to travel around during school holidays. 

Requirements:

• Degree from a 4-year university
• Be a native English speaker or have the ability to prove your fluency (i.e. TOEIC score or IELTS score)
• Background check
• Most employers require a TEFL certification 

Teach English in Cambodia

Whether you wish to teach English in the south and spend your weekend on one of the beautiful Islands that line the coast or north near the ancient Angkor Wat, Cambodia has everything you could ask for. With teaching hours only being roughly 20-25 hours per week, you will have ample time to explore the country and create unforgettable memories. 

Requirements:

• Background check
• TEFL certification 

Laos

This unique country in Southeast Asia is perfect for someone looking to live and work in a truly unique place. As this country is underdeveloped in relation to its neighbors, Thailand and Vietnam, English teaching jobs are not as high in demand. However, it is certainly on the rise. If you are lucky enough to get a position teaching English, your workweek would consist of roughly 20-30 hours a week. After a week of teaching, spend the weekend in Vang Vieng hiking or riding tubes along the river. Or perhaps simply explore the country’s capital of Vientiene and enjoy French cuisine. 

Requirements: 

• TEFL Certification
• Background check 

Although these are simply a few of the wonderful countries in Southeast Asia to teach English, there are so many more!

Which one would you move to?

Documents you need to teach English abroad