If you are recently TEFL qualified or obtaining your online TEFL certification, hold an Irish passport, and dream of teaching abroad, then the TEFL world can be your oyster. Your qualifications and passport can open up a lot of doors for you worldwide, including a lot of visa-free options! The demand for teachers is always growing with English being one of the world’s major languages. Irish TEFL teachers are welcome in many countries to bring their English-language know-how and culture to the classroom!

To move abroad and teach TEFL you need:

Your TEFL certification:

Remember that with our online courses, it’s easier than ever to get qualified. You can obtain your online TEFL certificate within a matter of weeks and be applying for jobs in no time! Our courses are self-study, so you can fit them into your busy lifestyle and study when you have time. There’s no need to travel to a class at a fixed time; you can complete the modules whenever you want!

Passport 

Your Irish passport can help make visa processes easier (or even not require one). Irish teachers can move visa-free anywhere in the European Union to teach, which takes a lot of stress away from moving abroad. If you’re looking to travel further afield, then your passport as a native English speaker can help you obtain visas around the world and meet the requirements for teachers in these countries.

Degree

This is not a requirement in many countries, but some countries require teachers to hold a degree in any discipline to satisfy visa requirements. This is usually the case in Asia. It’s important to check whether you need a degree to teach in your chosen country. If you do, then there are no legal loopholes, so you might have to research another destination instead.

If you are interested in teaching TEFL abroad but not sure where to go, you’ve come to the right place. Check out our top destinations for Irish TEFL teachers and see what takes your fancy!

Spain

Let’s start closer to home. Spain is a very popular choice for TEFL teachers from all over the world. Irish teachers do not need a visa to move to and work in Spain, making it a relatively simple move. TEFL work is found in local academies, mostly where teachers help children after their regular school day. This work usually involves following a set coursework so the planning is practically taken care of.

There is a lot of work teaching young learners and helping prepare students for exams, so an interest/ experience in these areas can be beneficial. English is very important for locals in Spain to be able to obtain work or study, so many students take extra classes. There are many private classes also available for those who want to make some extra money or gain more experience. 

Why Spain?

Spain is a vast and beautiful country with lots to explore. It has a wide range of cultures, languages and cuisines. Travelling around the country is easy with cheap flights and extensive buses and trains. Life can be more relaxed, and with good weather in many regions, you can enjoy yourself outside more than in Ireland. 

There are many teachers to socialise with and make friends with also so you can dive right in and enjoy life. It’s not too far away from Ireland if you need to catch a flight home to visit family either. Popular cities include Madrid, Barcelona, Seville or Malaga but there are very valuable options to consider in places like the Basque country, the Canaries or areas such as Almeria or Murcia.

Poland

Poland is becoming increasingly popular with TEFL teachers as the country has become more well-known to international travellers in recent years – and for good reason! TEFL jobs for Irish teachers are mostly in local language schools, where they help students with extracurricular classes and exam preparation.

International House is a famous school in Poland but there are also many others with job opportunities. Professional development is highly encouraged in Poland so there are often chances to obtain additional certificates or take extra courses to further your knowledge. This is something to be highly valued. As a TEFL teacher, it’s important to keep developing your skills to improve your lessons and keep up with the latest advancements in teaching.

Why Poland?

Poland offers a lower cost of living and an exciting culture to explore. Popular cities for teaching TEFL include Krakow, Katowice, Wroclaw and Warsaw. There are many flights as Poland has become a popular travel destination for many, and you can explore other cities by bus or train very quickly. Poland has a very professional working TEFL culture which is something to be valued in your TEFL job search.

Czechia (the Czech Republic)

Irish TEFL teachers can easily move to and work in Czechia and learn about a different area of Europe. Work often involves teaching in a local language school and helping students prepare for exams and business situations. Some work might involve travelling around the city and teaching in a local school or company. There is also the opportunity for extra income with private lessons.

Why Czechia?

With its central European location, Czechia is a fantastic base if you want to explore more of this region. There are buses and trains to popular destinations nearby, such as Berlin, Munich, Budapest, and Krakow, so you can visit other countries very easily in your time off.

Czechia is a beautiful country with a lot more to offer than only Prague (although Prague is, of course, a stunning capital). Other popular cities to teach in include Brno and Liberec, where the cost of living is even lower than in the capital.

South Korea

If you want to leave your comfort zone and travel out of Europe, South Korea is a fantastic option for those looking to make a serious career out of TEFL and earn a good income. South Korea offers some of the highest TEFL salaries in Asia, and teachers are respected very much. You will need a degree to meet the visa requirements, and a native English-speaking passport is required, so Irish teachers who hold a degree can obtain work here.

South Korea offers many opportunities in different types of schools and universities. If you hold a Master’s degree, you can also find work at a university level. Teachers’ education is highly valued, so if you hold extra qualifications, they can translate into higher-paying jobs. South Korea is a good place if you want to teach TEFL longterm and work your way up.

Why South Korea?

South Korea offers a unique culture that is quite different from Irish culture, so you can really explore new challenges and expand your horizons. Financially, you will make more in this country than in many others and have the opportunity to save. You can travel to nearby countries fairly cheaply, and South Korea’s transport system is efficient. Seoul is probably the most well-known city but Busan and Incheon and Daegu are not to be discarded either.

Cambodia 

Many Asian countries require a degree to work as a TEFL teacher, so if you’re interested in this area of the world but don’t have a degree, you might want to consider Cambodia. Cambodia does not require a degree for TEFL teachers. Your work might involve teaching young children in a local school or language school.

Cambodia’s tourism industry is growing each year so English is becoming more and more in demand for locals to use in their work with international visitors. Popular places include Siem Reap, Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville, a beautiful seaside town.

Why Cambodia?

Of course, the lack of a degree demand is a big plus for TEFL teachers but Cambodia has an amazing experience to offer anyone. Cambodia has an important history to learn about, as well as lots of stunning temples. Cambodian sunsets are like no other; you will be amazed by what you see! Not to mention, the people are incredibly friendly and will welcome you with open arms.

Ecuador 

If you want to travel in the other direction and head to South America, then Ecuador is a viable option for Irish TEFL teachers. Many language schools offer work for teachers, although hiring is often probably done in person, so travelling there first will be a better idea than applying online. American English is often taught due to its exposure to the language, but Irish TEFL teachers are of course welcome! It’s a good idea to be familiar with the differences between Irish and American English, but these are easy to pick up (lift, elevator etc).

Why Ecuador?

Ecuador’s and South America’s geography, in general, is fascinating. You can explore vast mountains, amazing lakes and even glaciers in the region. There is so much to see and do, you will never be bored! Ecuador offers a rich culture with welcoming people. Popular cities include Cuenca, Quito and Guayaquil. Ecuador is also one of the most politically stable countries in South America, which can help offer you some stability in your work.

Irish TEFL teachers can have their pick of many attractive TEFL opportunities worldwide and have a relatively easy path to moving to many countries – so take advantage of it! TEFL can be a very rewarding opportunity for many so don’t hesitate to obtain your online TEFL certification today and start your TEFL adventure!