China vs Indonesia: Where to Teach English

If you’re dreaming of teaching English abroad, China and Indonesia are two destinations that offer adventure, culture, and opportunity — but in completely different ways. On one hand, China’s massive cities, booming education industry, and structured visa process appeal to teachers looking for professional growth and a high standard of living. On the other, Indonesia’s island life, tropical climate, and more flexible job landscape attract those seeking a slower pace and deeper cultural immersion.

Both countries are rich in history and hospitality, but they cater to different personalities and career goals. China is all about scale and speed — a place where skyscrapers rise overnight and English is in constant demand. Indonesia, with its hundreds of islands and laid-back vibe, offers a lifestyle that blends work with beach sunsets, motorbike rides, and street food markets. One leans toward formality and consistency, the other toward adaptability and exploration.

Choosing between them isn’t just about salary or job title — it’s about the kind of life you want to build while teaching. From visa requirements and work culture to cost of living and personal freedom, each country has its own rhythm. Let’s break it all down and help you figure out where you’ll thrive.

Teaching Requirements and Eligibility

Getting started as an English teacher in either China or Indonesia requires ticking a few boxes, but the type of candidate each country attracts — and accepts — can differ significantly.

In China, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in any field, a 120-hour TEFL certificate, and a clean criminal background check to qualify for the Z visa — the official work visa for foreign teachers. There’s also an age limit: generally 55 for women and 60 for men. On top of this, China only hires native English speakers from seven approved countries (US, UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa). This makes the pathway stricter but also more formalized. Some exceptions exist in subject teaching or assistant roles, but for full English teaching positions, the rules are tightly enforced.

Indonesia, by contrast, operates with a bit more flexibility. A bachelor’s degree is strongly preferred — and often required for the KITAS work permit — but some schools or volunteer programs may accept alternative backgrounds, particularly in rural areas. While native speakers are prioritized, non-native speakers with strong English and a TEFL/TESOL certificate can still find opportunities. The visa process involves working with an employer to handle documentation, which can be bureaucratic but is generally navigable. There are fewer rigid national restrictions on who qualifies to teach English.

Compare:

• China offers a more formal system with clear (but strict) requirements — ideal for native speakers seeking structure and long-term stability.
• Indonesia provides more room for non-natives and newcomers — a good option for those willing to navigate some gray areas and start smaller.

Job Market and Demand

China offers one of the largest and most diverse English teaching markets in the world. From sprawling metropolises like Beijing and Shanghai to smaller provincial cities and even rural towns, there’s a steady demand for native English teachers. You’ll find roles in public schools, private language centers, bilingual kindergartens, international schools, and even universities. International schools, in particular, are booming, and they often offer some of the best salaries and benefits — especially for teachers with formal qualifications and experience.

In contrast, Indonesia’s job market is more concentrated in urban and tourist-heavy areas like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali. Most roles are found in private language schools or expat-run international schools. Public school positions exist but are less common for foreigners, and often pay less. The demand for English is growing, especially among middle-class families and professionals, but the scale is significantly smaller than China’s. That said, the smaller market creates a more relaxed, less saturated environment, which can be appealing to teachers looking for a gentler entry point.

If you’re looking for maximum job variety, China’s size and infrastructure give it an edge. But if you prefer a slower pace and a more personal teaching environment, Indonesia’s growing private sector could be the perfect fit.

Salary and Benefits

China stands out when it comes to compensation. Monthly salaries for English teachers typically range from ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 ($1,370 to $4,100 USD), depending on the institution and location. International schools and kindergartens often sit at the higher end, while universities and public schools offer lower pay but lighter hours. Benefits are a major draw — many schools provide free housing or a stipend, airfare reimbursement, health insurance, and generous paid holidays. Private tutoring can also be extremely lucrative, especially in major cities.

Indonesia offers more modest salaries by comparison, with most teaching jobs paying between 16–24 million IDR ($1,000–$1,500 USD) per month. International schools pay more — up to 40 million IDR ($2,500 USD) — but these positions are competitive and typically require experience. Some schools offer perks like subsidized housing, health insurance, or airfare, but it’s less standardized than in China. On the flip side, private tutoring is accessible and can supplement your income significantly, especially in places like Jakarta or Bali.

While China wins in absolute earnings and benefits, Indonesia’s lower cost of living means your money can still stretch far — especially if you're living modestly and supplementing your salary with tutoring or online teaching.

Cost of Living

China’s cost of living varies wildly depending on where you’re based. In tier-1 cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Shenzhen, rent can eat up a large chunk of your salary — especially if housing isn’t provided. Groceries and utilities are reasonable, but imported goods, nightlife, and Western restaurants can add up quickly. In smaller cities or rural areas, everything from rent to meals is significantly cheaper, and many teachers find they can save a good portion of their income. Public transport is excellent and affordable across the country.

Indonesia is one of Southeast Asia’s most budget-friendly countries for expats. Rent is typically cheap, especially outside tourist hubs. A comfortable apartment in a city like Yogyakarta or Surabaya might cost under $300 USD per month, while even in Bali or Jakarta, decent places are still attainable on a teacher’s salary. Local food, public transport, and utilities are low-cost. The big variation lies in lifestyle choices — those who live simply can save, while those chasing a Westernized, beach-club lifestyle in Bali may find their salaries stretched thin.

Overall, China has better infrastructure and public services, but comes with rising urban prices. Indonesia offers a more affordable daily life, though your comfort level may depend on your ability to adapt to local norms and services.

Work Environment and Expectations

In China, the teaching environment is often formal and structured. Expect larger class sizes in public schools (30–50 students) and fixed curricula to follow. Private language centers tend to have smaller groups but can require evening and weekend shifts. Office hours are common — even when you’re not teaching — and schools may expect lesson planning, meetings, or administrative duties during the day. Workloads can be heavy, especially in international schools or test-prep centers. Dress codes lean professional, and hierarchy in the workplace is something you’ll need to navigate with respect.

Indonesia offers a more relaxed teaching culture. Class sizes are typically smaller, and while there’s usually a set curriculum, schools may give you more freedom to adapt lessons to your style. Many positions have lighter workloads compared to China, and office hours can be more flexible — though this depends on the institution. You might find yourself wearing multiple hats in smaller schools, from planning to parent communication. The vibe is more casual, but professionalism and punctuality are still expected.

If you prefer a predictable, organized environment and don’t mind clocking in full days, China may feel more structured. If you’re after flexibility, autonomy, and a slower pace, Indonesia can be refreshingly low-pressure.

Lifestyle and Cultural Experience

Living in China means immersing yourself in a culture that’s rich, fast-evolving, and full of contrasts. You’ll find ancient temples tucked between neon skyscrapers, bullet trains zipping across provinces, and every kind of regional cuisine imaginable. The language barrier can be steep if you don’t speak Mandarin, especially in smaller cities, but most teachers pick up enough survival Chinese to get by. Foreigners are generally welcomed, though you may draw attention in less international areas. Urban life is fast-paced, convenience-focused, and tech-driven — think mobile payments, delivery apps, and 24/7 services.

Indonesia, on the other hand, runs on a different tempo entirely. Life moves slower, especially outside of Jakarta. From the prayer calls echoing at dawn to the rhythm of motorbike-filled streets, there’s a deep sense of place here. You’ll find incredible food markets, beachside warungs, and a rich blend of cultures across islands. Bahasa Indonesia is relatively easy to learn and helps with daily interactions. Most Indonesians are friendly and hospitable, and you’ll likely be drawn into local festivals, community events, and social circles if you’re open to it. Religion (primarily Islam, but also Hinduism, Christianity, and Buddhism) plays a big role in daily life, so modesty and respect are essential.

Compare:

• China offers modern comfort, fast access to goods and services, and a sense of global momentum
• Indonesia delivers soulful charm, natural beauty, and warm, community-centered living

Travel and Exploration Opportunities

China is a dream for domestic travel. With high-speed trains connecting hundreds of cities, you can explore mountains, deserts, ancient towns, and futuristic skylines with ease. Each region feels like its own country in terms of food, dialect, and atmosphere. Long weekends and national holidays (like Golden Week or Spring Festival) give you time to travel, though you’ll need to book early — domestic tourism is intense.

Indonesia’s travel appeal lies in its island-hopping potential and Southeast Asia connections. With over 17,000 islands, you could spend years exploring just within its borders — from Bali and Lombok to Sumatra and Sulawesi. Budget airlines like AirAsia make weekend trips to Singapore, Thailand, or Malaysia affordable, and visa-free entry to many nearby countries makes regional travel easy. While internal transport can be slower and less reliable than China’s, the payoff is often a hidden beach or jungle trek.

Compare:

• China offers fast, efficient infrastructure for exploring a vast and diverse mainland
• Indonesia provides tropical adventures and easy access to Southeast Asia’s best travel spots

Visa Process and Legal Stay

China’s Z visa is the official work visa for foreign teachers, and while it’s a reliable path to legal employment, the process can be tedious. You’ll need a job offer before you arrive, followed by a notarized degree, background check, TEFL certificate, health check, and sometimes even a video interview with local authorities. Once you’re in the country, your visa must be converted into a residence permit within 30 days — all handled through your employer. Renewal is typically annual, and switching employers mid-contract can be complicated. It’s a structured system, but with little room for flexibility or error.

Indonesia uses the KITAS (temporary stay permit), which also requires employer sponsorship but tends to be more forgiving and less uniform. Paperwork includes your degree, passport, and health clearance, but exact steps and timelines can vary depending on the region and the school’s experience with foreign hires. Processing delays or bureaucratic quirks aren’t uncommon. Some teachers begin with a tourist visa and transition to a KITAS once hired, though this is a legal gray area. Long-term stays are possible with renewals, but paths to permanent residency are limited and rarely pursued by teachers.

Compare:

• China offers a more consistent but strict and employer-dependent visa system
• Indonesia is more relaxed, but can be inconsistent and occasionally chaotic in execution

Career Growth and Long-Term Opportunities

In China, there’s real potential for career growth — especially in large cities. Teachers can move into senior teaching roles, curriculum design, school management, or transition into EdTech, test prep, or even recruitment. International schools and private education companies value experienced educators and offer professional development opportunities. With the right qualifications and networking, it’s possible to turn teaching into a well-paid, long-term career.

Indonesia’s landscape is more modest in scope. While international schools and universities offer growth potential, many other roles are static — great for a year or two of experience, but with limited upward mobility. That said, the NGO, volunteer, and community education sectors provide unique chances to make a social impact. Some teachers branch out into tourism, content creation, or entrepreneurship, especially in places like Bali where digital nomadism is common.

Compare:

• China is ideal for teachers seeking structured growth, advancement, and higher earnings
• Indonesia suits those who prioritize lifestyle, community impact, or independent projects over formal career ladders

Which Country Is Right for You?

You might prefer China if:

• You want a wide range of job types and high earnings
• You’re interested in structured career growth and international schools
• You’re prepared to adapt to bureaucracy and a stricter system

You might prefer Indonesia if:

• You want a more relaxed lifestyle and flexible teaching conditions
• You're open to a modest salary in exchange for low living costs
• You value cultural depth, nature, and a slower pace of life

Final Thoughts

Whether you're drawn to China's sprawling cities and professional growth or Indonesia's tranquil islands and laid-back vibe, both countries offer rich and rewarding paths for English teachers. The right choice comes down to your personal values, lifestyle goals, and how you want to grow — both in your career and in your life abroad.

Read next:

• Teach English in China
• Teach English in Indonesia