
Italy is one of the most culturally rich, scenic, and food-obsessed countries in the world—and that makes it a dream destination for many aspiring TEFL teachers. The good news? There’s a **steady demand for English teachers** across the country.

The not-so-good news? **Italy doesn’t have a centralized government teaching program** like TAPIF (France) or NALCAP (Spain) for foreign teachers. That means there’s no single, structured path that guarantees a visa, salary, and placement.

But don’t let that stop you.

From **private language schools** and **international institutions** to **freelance tutoring** and **online teaching**, there are plenty of legal and fulfilling ways to make it work. Whether you're just getting certified or looking to relocate long-term, this guide breaks down the best programs and pathways for [teaching English in Italy](/teach-english-italy).

## 🏫 Private Language Schools

For most foreign teachers, **private language schools** are the most accessible and straightforward way to start teaching in Italy. These schools—known locally as _scuole di lingue_—operate in nearly every town and city and cater to a wide range of learners:

- **Young learners** preparing for exams
- **Teens and adults** looking to improve conversational fluency
- **Professionals** taking business English or corporate training courses

Classes are typically held in the **afternoons and evenings**, and contracts can range from **part-time hourly roles to full academic year positions**.

**Hiring Seasons**:

- **September** (start of the school year) and **January** (second term) are peak times for recruitment.
- Some schools also hire in spring for **summer intensive courses or camps**.

**Typical Requirements**:

- A **TEFL or CELTA certificate** (120 hours or more)
- A **bachelor’s degree** (in any subject)
- **EU citizenship** or a visa that allows you to work (freelancer, student, etc.)

While some schools are open to non-EU citizens, you’ll usually need to **already be in Italy** with a legal right to work. That’s why many teachers **start on a student visa or as freelancers**.

**Best for**: Teachers who want **a mix of structure and independence**, and who are comfortable navigating life in Italy’s beautiful but sometimes bureaucratic environment.

## 🎓 International and Bilingual Schools

If you're a licensed teacher or have experience in formal education, **international and bilingual schools** in Italy offer one of the most stable and professional teaching environments available. These schools serve both **expat families** and **local students** and follow globally recognized curricula such as:

- The **International Baccalaureate (IB)**
- The **British National Curriculum**
- The **American K–12 system**

Positions are usually **full-time and salaried**, with benefits like paid holidays, pension contributions, and opportunities for professional development. These schools are typically located in **larger cities** like Rome, Milan, Florence, Bologna, and Turin—but some smaller regions have growing options too.

**Typical Requirements**:

- A **state teaching license** (e.g., PGCE, U.S. teaching certification)
- A **relevant bachelor’s degree** (or master’s)
- Prior **classroom teaching experience**
- Some roles require **native-level fluency** in English; Italian is helpful but not mandatory

Many of these schools will assist with **visa sponsorship**, especially if you're coming from outside the EU and have in-demand credentials.

**Best for**: Certified educators looking for a **long-term career path in Italy** with stability, a competitive salary, and opportunities to grow within the international school system.

## 🎒 TEFL Courses with Job Support

For those just starting out in the world of English teaching—or looking to make a career change—taking a **TEFL course in Italy** can be a smart move. Not only do you get certified in a country you want to live in, but you also gain **job support and local connections** that can help you get hired faster.

Courses are available in cities like:

- **Rome**
- **Florence**
- **Milan**
- **Bologna**
- **Naples**

Many providers offer:

- **120+ hour in-person certification**
- **Observed teaching practice**
- **Resume workshops and job placement assistance**
- Introductions to local **language schools, summer camps, or tutoring networks**

This route is ideal for teachers who don’t yet have experience but want to **build confidence**, **transition smoothly into Italian life**, and **gain hands-on training** in the classroom.

**Best for**: First-time teachers or digital nomads who want **structure, local support**, and a clearer path into the Italian TEFL job market.

## 💼 Freelance and Private Tutoring

For teachers who want **maximum flexibility** or prefer to work independently, **freelance and private tutoring** is a popular option—especially in cities like **Rome**, **Milan**, **Florence**, and **Naples**. The demand is strong among:

- **Students** preparing for Cambridge or IELTS exams
- **University applicants** seeking academic English support
- **Professionals** needing business or conversational English

Most tutoring work is arranged **informally**, through:

- Word of mouth
- Facebook expat and language groups
- Flyers at universities or cafés
- Language exchange meetups

Rates typically range from **€15 to €30 per hour**, often paid in cash. While this route doesn’t provide a fixed income, it allows you to **set your own schedule** and **build a client base** over time.

This option is especially powerful when **paired with other roles**, such as:

- A part-time job at a language school
- Online teaching
- TEFL course follow-up work

**Best for**: Independent teachers, digital nomads, or side hustlers who want to **earn income while enjoying the freedom to travel or explore different parts of Italy**.

## 🏛 Public Schools via Indirect Routes (Volunteer, Student Visa, or Assistant Roles)

Italy doesn't offer a centralized **government-run assistantship program** like Spain's NALCAP or France's TAPIF, but there are still ways to **get into public schools indirectly**.

Some teachers manage to work in public schools by:

- **Enrolling in Italian language or cultural courses** and using a **student visa** that allows limited work hours
- Joining **volunteer placements** through **church organizations, NGOs**, or **cultural exchange nonprofits**
- Finding **unofficial assistant roles** via local contacts, personal referrals, or networking with Italian teachers

These roles are often **low-paid or unpaid**, and they may not include visa support, but they offer:

- **Real classroom experience**
- **Cultural immersion**
- A foot in the door for future opportunities

They can also be a good way to **stay in the country legally** while building your network or learning the language.

**Best for**: Service-minded individuals, long-term travelers, or aspiring teachers looking to **gain experience while immersing themselves in Italian education and daily life**.

## 🌐 Online Teaching While Living in Italy

For those who already [teach online](/teach-english-online)—or want to transition to remote work—Italy offers an ideal lifestyle base. With its **solid internet infrastructure**, rich culture, and scenic towns and cities, it’s no wonder many digital nomads choose to **teach online while living la dolce vita**.

You can work for platforms like:

- **Preply**
- **iTalki**
- **Cambly**
- Or build your own student base through referrals and networking

Many teachers pair online work with:

- **Private tutoring**
- **Part-time language school roles**
- **Volunteer projects** or **language exchanges**

Because you're working with clients or companies based outside Italy, this path provides **greater visa flexibility**. Some people teach online on **student visas**, while others apply for a **freelancer visa** if planning to stay longer.

**Best for**: Teachers who value **location independence**, want to **earn in USD or GBP**, and still soak up everything Italy has to offer—on their own terms.

## 🎯 Which Path is Right for You?

Each route into English teaching in Italy fits a different kind of traveler or teacher. Here’s how to find the one that matches your situation:

- **New to teaching?**  
  → Start with an **in-country TEFL course** and transition into a **private language school** role.

- **Certified teacher?**  
  → Apply to **international or bilingual schools** offering full-time positions and long-term benefits.

- **Independent and adaptable?**  
  → Build a career through **freelance tutoring** or combine multiple income sources for maximum flexibility.

- **Already teaching online?**  
  → Keep doing what you do—just **base yourself in Italy** and enjoy the scenery between lessons.

- **Want cultural immersion or long stays?**  
  → Consider **volunteer work** or **student visa pathways** that let you live in Italy while gaining classroom experience.

## 🌟 Italy Offers Flexibility—If You Know Where to Look

Italy may not have a government-sponsored teaching program like some of its European neighbors, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. In fact, the country’s **blend of informal opportunities, freelance freedom, and academic pathways** gives you more control over how you teach—and how you live.

Whether you're just starting your TEFL journey or already working online, with a bit of planning and the right visa strategy, **teaching English in Italy can be your gateway to a meaningful, memorable, and incredibly flavorful life abroad**.


Teast

TEACH ENGLISH IN ITALY