The worldwide job market for native-English speakers with a TEFL certification is simply huge. Whether you head to Europe, Asia, Latin America or even Africa, you will have plenty of countries to choose from. However, if you dream of living and working in an English-speaking country, you might find it a little more difficult.
What are the difficulties of teaching English in an English speaking country?
While English language instruction is generally in high demand in English-speaking countries, the necessary teachers can normally be found within the country's own population, leaving little need to hire teachers from abroad. Another stumbling block is that work permits and visas can be particularly difficult to secure, especially for American citizens. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule so it is still possible to fulfill your dream.
How can I get a work permit to teach English in an English speaking country?
There are many reasons why you might find yourself with a work permit or permanent residency in another English-speaking country, such as via marriage to a foreign national, or as a result of a spouse being posted abroad. In these situations you are free to apply for teaching jobs if you have the relevant experience and qualifications. You should expect employers to require a college degree and an accredited TEFL certification, while any history of teaching English abroad will work strongly in your favor.
Can I get a working holiday visa and teach English in an English speaking country?
Obtaining a working holiday visa is a realistic way for citizens of some English-speaking countries to work in other English-speaking countries. This option is most widely available to citizens of the U.K., Canada, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. Applications must be made from your home country and are usually restricted to those aged 18 to 30, while the time limit allowed with each employer is generally a maximum of three to six months. Other requirements vary, but usually include proof of available finances and health insurance.
Can U.S. citizens get a working holiday visa and teach English in an English speaking country?
Opportunities for working holiday visas are limited for U.S. citizens, although they are currently available for entry into Australia and New Zealand. However, due to the abundance of local teachers and the time limit imposed by the visa, English teaching jobs are not easy to find via this option.
Are there jobs available teaching English in Canada?
With a long history of immigration, Canada has a continually high demand for English language instruction. Those eligible to work in the country, or who have secured a working holiday visa, should note that they also need to have TEFL certification that is accredited by TESL Canada. We recommend that you contact a Canadian embassy for the most up to date information regarding specific requirements for this option.
What are the requirements for teaching English in my home country?
The majority of English teaching jobs in English speaking countries are filled by citizens of that particular country. Requirements inevitably vary but a TEFL certificate and a four-year degree are likely to be the minimum expected. Experience of ESL teaching abroad may also go some way to helping you secure a position at an independent language school or as a private tutor.
Can I earn a comfortable living teaching English in an English speaking country?
Although demand for language instruction is strong in most English speaking countries, competition for the best positions is equally high. Also, many jobs are only on a part-time basis and salaries are often not sufficient to support a comfortable lifestyle without other forms of income. Exceptions would be positions in state and private schools, although these are small in number and are likely to require a higher level of qualifications and experience.
What should I do if I can't find a job teaching English in an English speaking country?
If the limited options for teaching in an English speaking country mean you are unable to find your dream job, don't despair! There are plenty of other exciting destinations across the world where you will have no problem finding a fulfilling teaching position. It is worth remembering that the vast majority of ESL teachers worldwide are employed in a country where English is not the native language. As many as a quarter of a million English speakers are currently employed as language teachers in all corners of the globe, and most of them had little or no knowledge of the local language when they arrived. If you are concerned about teaching in an environment where you do not speak the language, don't be. A good quality TEFL course will provide all the knowledge and techniques you will need to succeed in the classroom. With your TEFL certificate in hand and a spirit of adventure, there is no limit to where your teaching journey can take you.
