China vs Taiwan: Where to Teach English

Looking at East Asia and wondering whether to head to the vast mainland of China or the island charm of Taiwan? Both countries offer exciting teaching opportunities, rich cultures, and affordable lifestyles—but the experience of living and working in each is remarkably different.

China draws people in with its sheer size and variety. From ancient cities buzzing with tradition to ultramodern skylines pushing the world forward, life in China is dynamic, fast-paced, and full of contrasts. Teaching here gives you access to one of the world’s largest ESL job markets, a chance to explore diverse regions, and the opportunity to earn a solid income—especially if you're open to adventure and adaptable to local systems.

Taiwan, on the other hand, is smaller in scale but big on heart. Known for its safety, friendliness, and work-life balance, Taiwan offers a more relaxed teaching environment with a strong community feel. It’s easy to settle into daily life, get around without speaking much Mandarin, and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds even its biggest cities. The teaching market is competitive but accessible, especially for those looking for structure, support, and a place to call home for a few years.

Choosing between China and Taiwan isn’t just about salary or job titles—it’s about the kind of lifestyle you want to lead while teaching abroad. Whether you're drawn to high energy or low stress, fast change or steady rhythm, this comparison will help you weigh your options and figure out where you’ll thrive.

Teaching Requirements and Eligibility

Before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand who qualifies to teach legally in each country—and how the process differs depending on your background.

In China, the requirements are quite formal. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree, a 120-hour TEFL or TESOL certificate, and a passport from one of seven approved native English-speaking countries (US, UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa). A clean background check and a health exam are also part of the standard Z visa application process. While non-native speakers may face challenges getting English teaching jobs, some provinces or schools allow alternative roles like subject teaching or classroom assistant work—especially in bilingual programs or kindergartens.

In Taiwan, the rules are slightly more accessible. A bachelor’s degree is standard, but if you have an associate degree plus a TEFL certificate, you’re still eligible for a teaching visa. Like China, you need to be a native English speaker from the same group of seven countries. However, Taiwan’s visa system tends to be more transparent and consistent. Schools usually assist with the visa paperwork, and teachers are issued an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) upon arrival, which serves as both a work and residency permit.

Neither country requires teaching experience to get started, but it can be a bonus—especially for competitive roles in public schools or international institutions.

Compare:

• China has stricter entry rules for native speaker status but is often more flexible in job types
• Taiwan allows associate degree holders with TEFL, and its visa system is simpler and more consistent
• Both countries welcome first-time teachers, as long as you're qualified and ready to adapt

Job Market and Demand

Both China and Taiwan offer steady demand for English teachers, but the structure and scale of their job markets differ significantly.

China boasts one of the largest ESL markets in the world. Opportunities exist in nearly every corner of the country—from booming megacities like Beijing and Shanghai to rapidly developing second- and third-tier cities. You'll find teaching roles in public schools, private kindergartens, universities, training centers, and international schools. Training centers (private language institutes) are especially abundant and hire year-round, often providing ready-made curricula and flexible contracts. Public schools and universities tend to hire on a semester-by-semester basis, often starting in September or March.

Taiwan’s job market is smaller and more centralized, but still competitive and reliable. The bulk of teaching positions are in buxibans—private after-school academies that cater to young learners. These schools operate year-round and tend to hire foreign teachers continuously. Public school jobs are primarily filled through the Taiwan Foreign English Teacher Program (TFETP), which places teachers in public institutions around the island and follows a set annual recruitment cycle. International schools and universities exist but are far fewer than in China and often require higher qualifications and experience.

Urban demand is strong in both countries, but Taiwan's compact size means even smaller cities have decent infrastructure and demand. In contrast, China’s vast geography creates a wider range of experiences—rural areas may be less equipped for foreigners, while major cities are often saturated and competitive.

Compare:

• China’s job market is larger and more diverse, offering positions across all age groups and city tiers
• Taiwan’s market is smaller but more focused, with consistent demand in buxibans and public school programs
• Both offer year-round hiring, but China gives you more freedom to choose the type of school and setting

Salary and Benefits

When it comes to salary, both China and Taiwan offer respectable earnings that allow teachers to live comfortably and, in many cases, save. But the compensation structures, benefits, and overall earning potential can look quite different depending on where you go—and what kind of school you work for.

In China, salaries span a wide range. Entry-level jobs at public schools or training centers typically start around $1,400 per month, while kindergartens and international schools can offer over $3,000—or even up to $4,000 for experienced teachers. Many jobs also come with perks like housing allowances, contract bonuses, flight reimbursement, meals, and paid holidays. However, benefits aren’t always standardized, so it’s essential to clarify the full package before signing a contract.

In Taiwan, salaries tend to fall within a narrower, more predictable band. Most teaching jobs at buxibans and private schools pay between $1,250 and $2,200 per month, while public school positions (through TFETP or direct hire) offer slightly more. The real standouts are international schools, where teachers can earn $2,500 to $6,000 or more, depending on experience and credentials. Benefits often include national health insurance, annual bonuses, and sometimes a modest housing stipend. Taxes are lower in Taiwan, and the cost of living is manageable, making it easier to budget and save—even if the headline salary is lower than in some parts of China.

Private tutoring is popular and profitable in both countries. In China, hourly rates range from $11 to $29 depending on location and experience. In Taiwan, tutoring often pays better—usually between $19 and $38 per hour—and is a common way for teachers to boost their monthly income.

Compare:

• China offers higher salary ceilings, especially in international schools and kindergartens
• Taiwan provides stable mid-range pay, reliable benefits, and lower taxes
• Private tutoring is more lucrative in Taiwan, making it an attractive side income option

Cost of Living

Affordability can make or break your experience abroad, and both China and Taiwan offer lifestyles that are reasonably priced compared to most Western countries. That said, the cost of living varies depending on where you’re based and how you choose to live.

In China, expenses fluctuate widely between major cities and smaller towns. Living in Shanghai or Beijing means paying a premium for rent, international groceries, and entertainment—but head to second- or third-tier cities and your monthly costs drop dramatically. Rent is often the biggest expense, but in many cases, employers provide free housing or a stipend to cover it. Utilities and internet are generally inexpensive, public transportation is extremely cheap, and eating local food can cost just a few dollars a day.

Taiwan has a more stable cost structure. Whether you're in Taipei or a smaller city like Tainan or Taichung, the difference in expenses isn't huge. Rent is reasonable, even in city centers, and utility bills stay manageable year-round. Public transport is clean, punctual, and budget-friendly, and national health insurance keeps medical costs low. Grocery stores are well-stocked, and eating out is both affordable and delicious—especially at night markets and local eateries.

For solo teachers, both countries offer good value and allow for modest savings. Families may find China more affordable in smaller cities, while Taiwan provides a safer, more convenient environment with strong infrastructure and healthcare.

Compare:

• China is cheaper overall, especially in non-tier-1 cities where rent and food can be extremely low
• Taiwan offers a steady, balanced cost of living, with excellent public services and healthcare
• Both countries are affordable for teachers, but your lifestyle and city choice will shape your budget

Work Environment and Expectations

The day-to-day teaching experience in China and Taiwan can feel quite different—both in what’s expected of you and how classrooms operate. Knowing what you're walking into can help you choose a country that aligns with your teaching style and energy level.

In China, the work environment varies significantly depending on the institution. Public school jobs often involve large class sizes—sometimes up to 50 students—and a relatively light teaching schedule (around 15–20 hours per week), though you may also be expected to create lesson plans and participate in school events. Training centers and kindergartens, by contrast, can require longer hours (25–35 hours a week), including evenings and weekends. Some schools offer great support and pre-set curricula, while others expect you to build everything from scratch. The experience can range from laid-back to extremely demanding, depending on location, school type, and management style.

Taiwan offers a more standardized teaching environment, especially in buxibans. These cram schools typically operate in the afternoons and evenings, and most teachers work 20–30 teaching hours per week. Class sizes are smaller (usually 8–20 students), and the materials are often provided, though you may still need to prep and do light admin. Public school roles (through TFETP or direct hire) generally run from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with lighter teaching loads but more office hours. Co-teaching with a local teacher is common in public schools, and there’s usually a structured curriculum in place to help guide your lessons.

Both countries expect professionalism and classroom engagement, but Taiwan tends to be more predictable and teacher-friendly when it comes to schedules and support. China, on the other hand, can be more flexible—or chaotic—depending on your school and city.

Compare:

• China offers more variation, with some schools offering full freedom and others demanding long hours
• Taiwan provides more structured and consistent work environments, especially in buxibans and public schools
• Class sizes tend to be smaller in Taiwan, while China’s range is broader, from large public school classes to small private ones

Lifestyle and Cultural Experience

Life outside the classroom plays a huge role in how fulfilling your time abroad will be. Both China and Taiwan are rich in culture, history, and everyday charm—but the vibe, pace, and ease of integration are quite different.

China offers a deep and dynamic cultural experience. From thousand-year-old temples and ancient hutongs to ultra-modern megacities and global business hubs, no two regions feel quite the same. The food scene is bold and incredibly diverse, with distinct cuisines in every province. Public spaces buzz with life, and festivals—like Chinese New Year or Mid-Autumn Festival—are grand, multi-day affairs. But it’s not always easy to jump in. English is less widely spoken outside major cities, and daily tasks like paying bills or opening a bank account can be complicated without some Mandarin or local help. That said, those who dive in often find the rewards well worth the challenge.

Taiwan delivers a softer landing for newcomers. It’s known for being one of the friendliest and safest countries in Asia, with a relaxed pace and strong infrastructure. Locals are warm and curious, and many speak at least basic English, especially in cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung. The street food culture is world-famous, the public transport is clean and intuitive, and healthcare is affordable and efficient. It’s also incredibly easy to get outdoors—hike a mountain in the morning, then hit a night market in the evening. While Taiwanese society is more reserved than Western cultures, most expats find it easy to settle in and build a rhythm.

Compare:

• China offers intense cultural immersion, with vast regional variety but more language barriers and bureaucratic complexity
• Taiwan is more welcoming and relaxed, with easier day-to-day life and strong support for foreign residents
• Both countries offer excellent food, rich traditions, and modern comforts, but Taiwan is typically easier to navigate as a newcomer

Travel and Exploration Opportunities

If you’re the kind of person who can’t sit still on weekends or plans holidays around flight deals, both China and Taiwan will keep your wanderlust well-fed—but in different ways.

China is a traveler’s playground. The sheer size of the country means you can go from snow-capped mountains in the west to tropical beaches in the south, ancient villages to space-age cities, all without ever crossing a border. The high-speed rail network is one of the most advanced in the world, connecting cities efficiently and affordably. Domestic flights are also plentiful, and regional diversity means every province feels like a different country. However, travel during national holidays (like Golden Week) can be crowded, and getting around may be trickier if you don’t speak Mandarin.

Taiwan may be small, but it's packed with beauty and variety. From misty mountains and tea fields to coastal hot springs and coral reefs, the island is perfect for weekend trips. You can circle the entire country by train in just a few hours, and public transport is clean, cheap, and easy to use. Taiwan is also a fantastic base for international travel, with budget flights to Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. The country has several national holidays, and many schools offer time off during major festivals like Lunar New Year or Dragon Boat Festival.

For those who want epic journeys and big landscapes, China delivers in spades. If you prefer short, frequent getaways with minimal hassle, Taiwan might be your dream destination.

Compare:

• China offers massive domestic travel potential, with high-speed trains, iconic landmarks, and unmatched variety
• Taiwan is compact and convenient, ideal for frequent weekend escapes and spontaneous day trips
• Taiwan also makes a great hub for exploring Southeast and East Asia, thanks to budget airlines and visa-free access

Visa Process and Legal Stay

Sorting out your visa is one of the most important—and sometimes most frustrating—parts of teaching abroad. While both China and Taiwan have relatively clear legal pathways for foreign teachers, their systems differ in transparency, complexity, and long-term flexibility.

In China, most teachers enter on a Z visa, which is sponsored by your employer. The process requires several notarized and authenticated documents, including your degree, background check, and TEFL certificate, plus a medical exam and sometimes an interview at the consulate. After arriving, you’ll convert the Z visa into a residence permit that allows you to live and work in the country for one year at a time. The paperwork can be dense and delays are common—especially since rules vary by city or province. Renewals are typically tied to your contract, and switching jobs can trigger another round of red tape.

Taiwan uses a more streamlined system. Teachers get hired first, then enter on a work visa that’s converted into an ARC (Alien Resident Certificate) upon arrival. This ARC acts as both your work and residency permit, and is usually valid for 12 months but easy to renew if your contract continues. Documentation is still required—degree, background check, TEFL—but the process is generally smoother, with clear steps and better employer support. One major plus: private tutoring is legal in Taiwan if you register as self-employed or freelance under certain visa types, which opens up extra income streams.

Neither country offers a straightforward path to permanent residency or citizenship through teaching alone, but Taiwan is generally more welcoming to long-term residents—especially those who stay for multiple years.

Compare:

• China’s Z visa process can be inconsistent and bureaucratic, especially when changing jobs or cities
• Taiwan’s ARC system is more standardized, transparent, and easier to renew
• Taiwan is also more flexible for legal tutoring and side gigs, which can boost income and extend your stay

Career Growth and Long-Term Opportunities

If you’re thinking beyond a one-year contract and want to build a real career—or even a business—your choice between China and Taiwan could shape what’s possible in the years ahead.

In China, the sheer size of the ESL industry opens up a wide range of professional pathways. Teachers who stick around can move into academic leadership, curriculum development, or management roles at private schools and international academies. The country also has a thriving EdTech and online education sector, which means there are opportunities to transition into content creation, teacher training, or digital education startups. For entrepreneurial types, there’s plenty of room to build a side hustle or even launch a school, agency, or tutoring brand—especially in second-tier cities with rising demand.

Taiwan, by contrast, offers a more stable but slower-moving career landscape. Many teachers remain in classroom roles for years, often because they enjoy the work-life balance and community. Leadership positions are rarer and more competitive, and public school jobs through TFETP don’t typically lead to promotions. However, Taiwan’s legal environment makes it much easier to tutor privately or register as self-employed, allowing you to expand your income and possibly shift toward freelancing or online teaching full time. While it may not be a launchpad for rapid career growth, Taiwan is a great place to develop your skills in a supportive, low-stress setting.

As for long-term stay options, China makes it tough to stay permanently unless you marry a local or land a rare long-term work permit. Taiwan is more flexible, offering multi-year ARC renewals and the possibility of permanent residency after five years for some professionals.

Compare:

• China offers more room to climb the ladder, especially in leadership, management, or business ventures
• Taiwan is ideal for stability and side-income growth, especially for those interested in private tutoring or online teaching
• Long-term visas are easier to manage in Taiwan, but both countries make full residency or citizenship challenging

Which Country Is Right for You?

You might thrive in China if:

• You want a fast-paced environment with high income potential
• You’re open to navigating bureaucracy and seeking diverse job types
• You enjoy regional variety and big-city living

You might thrive in Taiwan if:

• You value work-life balance and a slower pace of life
• You prefer a clean, safe, and community-oriented society
• You want clearer visa rules and ease of daily living

Final Thoughts

Choosing between China and Taiwan isn’t just about salaries or job titles—it’s about the kind of life you want to build while teaching abroad. China offers momentum, scale, and opportunity, especially for teachers who thrive in dynamic, high-growth environments. Taiwan, meanwhile, promises stability, kindness, and a more balanced lifestyle, perfect for those who want to settle into a routine with ease.

Whichever path you take, both destinations have the power to transform your teaching journey and expand your global perspective.

Read next:

• Teach English in China
• Teach English in Taiwan