Once you have completed your TEFL certification and started looking for potential English language teaching jobs, you will need to consider what visas and work permits you might require in order to start working in your favored location. In some countries it is very straightforward, while others might require you to jump through the odd hoop or two. Take a look at our FAQs below that cover the visa and document situation in some of the most popular overseas teaching destinations.
Can I get a work visa to teach English in Germany?
While there are numerous opportunities for language teachers in towns and cities across Germany, it is not always easy for non-Europeans to secure a visa that allows them to stay long-term. However, it is certainly possible if you are able to meet the specified criteria.
Read moreCan I get a work visa to teach English in the Czech Republic?
Yes. One of the main reasons why the Czech Republic draws such a large number of teachers from countries all over the world is that it is possible for many nationalities to secure a work visa that allows them to stay in the country long-term.
Read moreWhat visa do I need to teach English in Spain?
Spain is a popular destination for teaching English abroad as it always has a wide choice of jobs on offer, particularly in cities such as Barcelona and Madrid. For most non-EU citizens it is common practice to enter the country on a 90-day tourist visa.
Read moreWhat visa do I need to teach English in Costa Rica?
If you choose Costa Rica as your destination you should check with your nearest Costa Rican Embassy for the most up-to-date visa information before getting on a plane. Currently, it is common practice for most foreign teachers to enter the country on a 90-day tourist visa.
Read moreHow do I apply for a student visa to legally teach English in France?
Teachers from all over the world flock to France to take advantage of all that the country has to offer, including a strong demand for English language instruction. For those who want to stay for the long term, applying for a student visa might be a valid option.
Read moreHow do I apply for a student visa to legally teach English in Spain?
Spain is one of the top destinations in Europe for teaching English abroad and there are various options when it comes to entry visas, depending on your nationality. For some a student visa might be a good choice as it can be arranged before you leave home.
Read moreHow do I apply for a student visa to legally teach English in Italy?
There are always plenty of job opportunities for first time and experienced teachers in towns and cities across Italy. However, long term visas are not easy to secure for some nationalities so applying for a student visa before leaving home might be a good option.
Read moreCan I teach English abroad without a work visa?
Securing a work visa can be relatively straightforward in some countries, while in others it can be almost impossible. That said, in many countries where work visas are hard to come by, it is common practice for teachers to work on a tourist visa, or with no visa at all.
Read moreWhat documents will I need to teach English abroad?
The documentation needed when applying for jobs teaching English abroad can vary depending on the destination and the employer. To avoid the inconvenience of being stuck overseas without the paperwork required by employers or the immigration office, you should do as much research as possible before leaving home.
Read moreDo I need a visa to teach English abroad?
It is vital that you research the visa requirements of the country where you plan to work in advance of your departure. In some countries you can simply turn up at the airport and enter on a tourist visa, while others require you to apply for a visa in advance.
Read moreDo I need a passport to teach English abroad?
If you are planning to head overseas to teach English, one of the most important things to check in advance is that you have a valid passport. Without an up-to-date passport your dream of living and working abroad will remain just that, a dream!
Read moreCan I get a work visa to teach English in Mexico?
Yes, for the majority of foreign nationals teaching English in Mexico it is relatively straightforward to apply for a visa that allows them to stay in the country long-term. By obtaining an official work visa you will also receive other benefits including access to the national healthcare system.
Read moreWhat is the Schengen Area in Europe and how does it affect TEFL teachers? If you have done some research on teaching English in Europe you have probably come across something called the Schengen Area, but what exactly is it and how does it affect TEFL qualified teachers? Read more
How do I apply for a student visa to legally teach English in Europe?
As it can be difficult for non-EU citizens to obtain an official work visa for teaching English in some European countries, many teachers choose to apply for a student visa that allows you to work a set number of hours a week.
Read moreWhat do I need to teach English abroad?
If you are planning to teach English overseas you will inevitably require some documentation at different times. To avoid any setbacks or delays, you should be aware of what might be needed well before your departure date.
Read moreWhat visa do I need to teach English in Europe?
Europe continues to be a very popular region for teaching English abroad as jobs are abundant in many countries. Although EU passport holders are free to work without a visa, non-EU citizens need to be aware of their options before getting on the plane.
Read moreAre visas necessary when teaching English abroad?
The type of visa you require when teaching English abroad largely depends on the country that you choose to live and work in. The rules and regulations vary enormously so it is important that you do some research in advance of your departure date.
Read moreWhere can I get a digital nomad visa for teaching English online?
Teaching English online and traveling the world has never been easier thanks to a new trend of digital nomad visas. Several countries now offer long-term visas aimed at remote workers, which is great news for ESL teachers looking to work online. Take a look at some of the most popular options.
Read moreHow do Americans get a criminal background check for teaching English abroad?
Some employers require a criminal background check when hiring new teachers and it is also a common requirement when applying for a work visa, particularly in Asian countries. Teachers from the U.S. can get all the information they need via the FBI website.
Read more