The Best Places to Teach English Abroad

Teaching English abroad isn’t just a job — it’s a lifestyle. It’s a way to explore the world, immerse yourself in a new culture, and make a real difference in people’s lives while growing personally and professionally. Whether you're in it to save money, see the world, or just shake up your routine, there's a place out there with your name on it.

But with so many options — from tropical beaches in Southeast Asia to historic cities in Europe — how do you know where to start?

In this guide, we’ll break down the best countries to teach English abroad, depending on your goals, background, and dream lifestyle. We’ll skip the generic rankings and instead focus on where you’ll actually thrive — legally, financially, and culturally.

🧭 How to Choose the Right Country for You

Before you start packing your bags, take a minute to think about what you want from this experience. The best country to teach in isn’t about someone else’s list — it’s about what fits your priorities.

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

✈️ What kind of lifestyle are you after?

Do you want beaches and scooters, or museums and train rides? Do you dream of street food markets or weekend hikes in the mountains?

💸 How important is money?

Some countries offer great salaries and benefits, while others pay less but offer a much lower cost of living. Decide whether you’re trying to save, sustain, or just soak it all in.

🎓 What qualifications do you have?

Do you have a degree? Are you a native English speaker? Not every country has the same visa rules — and some are way more flexible than others.

🌎 Are you open to culture shock?

Some places feel instantly familiar. Others? Not so much — and that’s part of the fun. But it helps to know your comfort zone.

🇰🇷 South Korea: Best for High Salaries and Full Benefits

If you’re looking to save money and have an adventure, South Korea is hard to beat. With generous salaries, paid housing, airfare reimbursement, and year-end bonuses, teaching in Korea can be as financially rewarding as it is culturally eye-opening.

Why It Stands Out:

• Strong job market: Public school programs like EPIK and SMOE, plus thousands of private language schools (hagwons), hire year-round.
• Great perks: Most jobs include free housing, airfare, national health insurance, and paid vacation.
• Modern lifestyle: High-speed internet, safe cities, and incredible food — plus the chance to explore everything from ancient temples to K-pop concerts.

Things to Know:

• You’ll need to be a native English speaker from one of seven designated countries to qualify for an E-2 visa.
• A bachelor’s degree and TEFL certificate are usually required.
• Urban life is the norm — get ready for neon lights, café culture, and bustling cities.

South Korea is perfect for first-time teachers or anyone looking for a mix of savings, structure, and cultural immersion.

🇹🇭 Thailand: Best for a Laid-Back Lifestyle and Cultural Richness

Want a teaching job with a side of jungle treks, tropical islands, and temple hopping? Thailand is your vibe. It's one of the most popular destinations for English teachers — and for good reason.

Why It Stands Out:

• Warm, welcoming culture: Thai students are respectful and friendly, and locals are famously hospitable.
• Low cost of living: Your money stretches further here — from street food to rent, daily life is affordable.
• Flexible opportunities: Public schools, private language centers, and volunteer gigs make it accessible even for teachers with fewer credentials.

Things to Know:

• Pay is lower than in East Asia, but so is the cost of living.
• Non-native speakers can teach here legally — especially if you have a TEFL and can prove English proficiency.
• Most jobs won’t come with housing or airfare — but the lifestyle more than makes up for it.

Thailand is ideal if you’re looking for work-life balance, meaningful connections, and a slower pace with lots of adventure on the side.

🇨🇳 China: Best for Big Demand and Diverse Cities

With one of the largest populations of English learners in the world, China is a giant in the ESL world. From neon-lit megacities to ancient countryside towns, teaching here is about contrast, culture, and opportunity.

Why It Stands Out:

• Massive job market: Thousands of positions are available at kindergartens, training centers, universities, and international schools.
• Competitive salaries: Especially in bigger cities like Beijing and Shanghai, with added perks like housing and flight reimbursement.
• Culture meets modernity: One day you’re eating street noodles in a hutong; the next, you’re navigating high-speed trains and mobile pay apps.

Things to Know:

• Most teaching jobs require you to be a native speaker with a degree and TEFL certification.
• Non-native speakers can teach subjects in English (like math or science) or work in other roles, but English teaching jobs are visa-restricted.
• Big cities can be overwhelming — rural placements offer a slower pace and deeper cultural immersion.

China is perfect for teachers who are up for a challenge, crave variety, and want to experience a country that’s reshaping the world stage.

🇻🇳 Vietnam: Best for Balance, Buzz, and Teaching Opportunities

Vietnam strikes a beautiful balance — it’s relaxed, affordable, and full of teaching jobs, but still buzzing with energy. If you want to ride your motorbike to class, sip $1 coffee on a rooftop, and make a difference in your students’ lives, this is your place.

Why It Stands Out:

• Open to non-native speakers: As long as you’re fluent and certified, you’ve got a shot.
• Rising demand: English is a key priority for schools, and the market’s expanding fast — especially in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.
• Great lifestyle: Vietnam offers a rich blend of street food, natural beauty, history, and modern hustle.

Things to Know:

• Most schools prefer a bachelor’s degree and TEFL, but some will hire based on experience.
• Salaries are modest compared to South Korea or China, but the low cost of living means you can live well — and still save.
• Public schools, private centers, and university gigs are all options — and there's plenty of private tutoring too.

Vietnam is great if you want freedom, adventure, and community, with the added bonus of teaching in one of Asia’s most welcoming markets.

🇯🇵 Japan: Best for Culture, Structure, and Stability

Teaching in Japan is as much about cultural immersion as it is about education. From ancient temples to vending machines that sell everything, Japan blends tradition with tech in a way that’s uniquely its own.

Why It Stands Out:

• Well-established teaching programs like JET, Interac, and AEON make it easy to get started.
• Respect for teachers is built into the culture — your role is taken seriously.
• Clean, safe cities, reliable public transport, and endless travel opportunities on your days off.

Things to Know:

• Competition is high, and most jobs require you to be a native English speaker with a degree.
• Living costs, especially in cities like Tokyo, can be high — but so is the quality of life.
• Schools expect professionalism — punctuality, dress code, and lesson planning are all part of the deal.

Japan is ideal if you want to live in one of the world’s most fascinating countries while building teaching experience in a structured, respected environment.

🇹🇼 Taiwan: Best for Community, Nature, and Work-Life Balance

Taiwan is one of Asia’s hidden gems — it combines the energy of a big city with the friendliness of a small town. Whether you're hiking jungle trails, exploring night markets, or teaching bright-eyed kids, Taiwan makes it easy to feel at home.

Why It Stands Out:

• Tight-knit expat community: You’ll find support, friendship, and advice everywhere you go.
• Bilingual education boom: Schools are actively hiring, and the demand for English teachers keeps growing.
• Easy travel: Trains are cheap and fast, and beaches, hot springs, and mountains are all within reach.

Things to Know:

• Native English speakers are preferred for visas, but non-native speakers can sometimes teach on other visa types or in private settings.
• Jobs are common in cram schools (buxibans), public schools, and kindergartens.
• A bachelor’s degree and TEFL are typically required, along with a clean background check.

If you’re looking for a place with a gentle pace, rich culture, and welcoming vibe, Taiwan might be your new favorite country.

🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates (UAE): Best for High Salaries and Career Growth

If you're dreaming of a teaching job that pays well and looks great on a résumé, the UAE might be your golden ticket. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer modern, cosmopolitan lifestyles with the added bonus of tax-free salaries and serious perks.

Why It Stands Out:

• One of the highest-paying ESL destinations in the world.
• Positions often include free housing, flight reimbursement, and health insurance.
• You'll be teaching in well-equipped schools with motivated students.

Things to Know:

• Schools often require a teaching license or education degree, especially in public or international schools.
• Many roles prefer experienced teachers, but newer teachers can find entry-level positions in training centers or private institutes.
• Life in the UAE is modern, but it’s also important to respect local customs and follow the laws.

The UAE is perfect for teachers who want to boost their savings, gain experience in international schools, and explore life in the Middle East — all while enjoying world-class beaches, malls, and weekend trips to other parts of Asia and Africa.

💻 Online: Best for Flexibility, Travel, and Starting From Anywhere

Teaching English online has transformed the industry — and for non-native speakers or those without a degree, it’s often the best (and fastest) way to get started. All you need is a laptop, a solid internet connection, and the willingness to adapt.

Why It Stands Out:

• Work from anywhere: Live in Thailand, travel Europe, or stay home — it’s all possible.
• Set your own schedule: Ideal for digital nomads, parents, or anyone who wants freedom.
• Low barrier to entry: Many platforms hire teachers with just a TEFL certificate and strong English skills.

Things to Know:

• Some platforms (like Cambly or Preply) are open to non-native speakers and those without a degree.
• Others (like VIPKid or iTalki) may have stricter requirements — research is key.
• Building a strong student base takes time, but you can start earning quickly with a professional profile and engaging lessons.

Online teaching is great for those who want to try teaching before committing to a move abroad, or for anyone who wants to travel full-time while earning an income. It’s also a fantastic stepping stone into classroom jobs in other countries.

🧭 How to Choose the Best Country for You

With so many amazing destinations, how do you actually decide where to go? It’s not just about the salary or scenery — the best place to teach English abroad really depends on your goals, your lifestyle, and what kind of teaching experience you’re after.

Start by Asking Yourself:

• What’s your “why”?
  Are you looking to save money, explore new cultures, or launch a long-term teaching career? Each country has its own strengths — some are better for saving, others for lifestyle or experience.

• Do you have a degree or teaching license?
  Countries like South Korea, Japan, and the UAE usually require a bachelor’s degree. But if you don’t have one, places like Cambodia or teaching online might be a better fit.

• What’s your passport situation?
  Visa rules vary. For example, South Korea and Japan require specific nationalities for English teaching visas, while Vietnam and Thailand are more open.

• Are you new to teaching?
  If you're just starting out, look for destinations with lower entry barriers and a strong TEFL market — like Vietnam, Thailand, or online teaching platforms.

• What kind of lifestyle do you want?
  City hustle or small town chill? Tropical beaches or four seasons? Fast-paced or laid-back? Let your ideal day-to-day life guide your decision.

Pro Tip:

Write down your top 3 priorities — like “I want to save money,” or “I want to live in a walkable city.” Then match them to a country that fits your vibe. That way, you’re not just chasing the most popular destination — you’re choosing the one that’s right for you.

🌍 Final Thoughts: Your Teaching Abroad Adventure Starts Now

Teaching English abroad isn’t just a job — it’s a lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the beaches of Thailand, the buzz of Tokyo, the deserts of Dubai, or the comfort of working from your laptop anywhere in the world, the right opportunity is out there for you.

Remember:

• There’s no one-size-fits-all destination — what works for someone else might not be right for you.
• Qualifications matter, but so does mindset. If you’re adaptable, open-minded, and willing to learn, you’re already halfway there.
• Every experience — even the hard parts — is a chance to grow. You’ll build confidence, gain global perspective, and maybe even find a new home away from home.

Ready to Get Started?

• Narrow down your top destinations.
• Get TEFL certified (if you haven’t already).
• Start browsing real job openings and talking to current teachers.
• And most importantly: take that first step — even if it’s just applying to one job or researching visa options.

The world’s waiting. Your classroom could be in a buzzing Seoul neighborhood, a beachside Cambodian school, a remote Zoom call to Brazil, or a skyscraper in Dubai. Wherever it is, you’ve got something real to offer — and the adventure of a lifetime ahead.

✈️ Teach. Travel. Live abroad.
It all starts now.