Vietnam vs Indonesia: Where to Teach English

Trying to choose between Vietnam and Indonesia for your next teaching adventure? You’re not alone. Both countries offer unique opportunities for English teachers — from buzzing cities like Ho Chi Minh and Jakarta to peaceful rural towns and coastal escapes. Each comes with its own set of challenges and rewards, shaped by local culture, visa policies, school systems, and day-to-day life.

Vietnam has become one of Asia’s most popular destinations for ESL teachers, known for its strong job market, relatively high salaries, and fast-paced urban life. Indonesia, on the other hand, offers a more laid-back teaching culture, a lower cost of living, and the promise of island life — with Bali being a big draw for remote workers and teachers alike. But teaching in Indonesia also comes with stricter visa rules and fewer opportunities in rural areas.

Teaching Requirements and Eligibility

Vietnam and Indonesia both welcome foreign English teachers, but they differ significantly in how easy it is to get started. In Vietnam, the process is relatively straightforward. As long as you have a bachelor’s degree (in any subject), a TEFL certificate, and a clean background check, you're likely to find opportunities — even if you’re new to teaching. The system also tends to be more open to non-native English speakers, especially those who hold a passport from an English-speaking country or can demonstrate strong English proficiency.

Indonesia takes a more cautious approach. A bachelor’s degree is still required, but schools often prefer candidates with degrees in Education, English, or related fields. TEFL certification is strongly encouraged and sometimes essential for private language schools. The government is more selective when it comes to issuing work visas, which makes legal teaching roles harder to come by — especially for non-native speakers or teachers without formal qualifications. In some cases, international schools may require additional credentials, such as a teaching license from your home country.

Both countries require a clean criminal background check and a basic health screening, but the visa process in Indonesia tends to involve more steps and documentation. That said, if you're well-qualified and patient with the paperwork, Indonesia can still be an incredibly rewarding place to teach.

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Vietnam’s relatively relaxed system and pathways for non-native teachers vs Indonesia’s stricter legal structure and vetting process.

Job Market and Hiring Landscape

Vietnam has one of the most accessible and active ESL job markets in Southeast Asia. The bulk of opportunities are found in private language centers, especially in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, with additional demand in places like Da Nang and Can Tho. Public schools and bilingual academies also hire foreign teachers, often through government-affiliated programs or local recruiters. Hiring is ongoing throughout the year, though demand peaks in August and January.

Indonesia’s job market is smaller and more centralized. Most positions are concentrated in Jakarta and Surabaya, with some openings in Bali — though these are often competitive and limited. The country has fewer large-scale language chains compared to Vietnam, and international schools tend to prefer licensed, experienced teachers. NGOs and volunteer programs exist, particularly in more rural or underserved areas, but these roles offer low pay and often come with shorter contracts.

Vietnam is a great place to get hired quickly — even if you’re a first-timer — while Indonesia requires more planning, credentialing, and sometimes patience. Walk-in hiring is common in Vietnam but rare in Indonesia, where schools usually follow a more formal process and hire ahead of term starts.

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Vietnam’s consistent year-round demand and urban teaching scene vs Indonesia’s tighter market and limited options outside major hubs.

Salary and Benefits

English teachers in Vietnam typically earn between $1,100 to $2,300 USD per month, depending on the type of institution and your qualifications. Language centers offer competitive pay and bonuses for attendance or contract completion. Public schools provide stability, daytime hours, and generous holidays, while international schools pay top-tier salaries — but usually require formal teaching credentials. Housing isn’t always included, but pay is high enough that teachers can afford modern apartments, dine out regularly, and still save.

Indonesia offers a more modest pay scale. Teachers at private language schools generally earn between $1,000 and $1,500 USD per month, while public schools and NGOs tend to offer less. International schools pay up to $2,500 USD, but these roles are competitive and usually reserved for licensed teachers. Some schools offer shared housing, travel stipends, or visa sponsorship — but it’s less common to receive comprehensive benefit packages unless you're at the top of the field.

The cost of living in both countries is low, but Vietnam gives teachers a better shot at saving money or living comfortably while working fewer hours. Indonesia, particularly in Bali, tends to attract lifestyle-focused teachers who prioritize setting and pace over income potential.

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Vietnam’s higher average earnings and stronger savings potential vs Indonesia’s modest but livable salaries — especially outside Jakarta.

Cost of Living

Both Vietnam and Indonesia are known for being budget-friendly destinations, especially when compared to Western countries. That said, Vietnam generally comes with slightly higher costs — especially in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi — but also provides better infrastructure, reliable public transport, and a wider range of expat amenities. One-bedroom apartments in city centers typically cost $350–$600 USD, with utilities and internet adding another $70–$100 USD. Street food is cheap, and groceries are affordable, especially if you stick to local products.

Indonesia offers even lower rents in most cities, particularly outside of Jakarta and Bali. A comparable one-bedroom apartment might cost $250–$400 USD, and food costs are often lower too — though imported goods can get pricey. However, some teachers report less consistent infrastructure, occasional power outages, and slower internet, especially in rural areas or smaller islands.

For families, both countries offer reasonably priced larger apartments, and international school fees are comparable. For singles, Vietnam gives you more “city life” comfort at a slightly higher price, while Indonesia is better suited to those seeking a simpler, more tranquil setup with lower monthly outgoings.

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Vietnam’s slightly higher costs with better infrastructure vs Indonesia’s island-friendly affordability, especially in second-tier cities.

School Culture and Teaching Environment

Teaching in Vietnam can be fast-paced and high-energy. Students, especially younger ones, are lively and eager to learn, but they also expect structured lessons and engaging activities. Many schools — especially language centers — provide pre-written curricula and lesson materials, but some prep is still required. Class sizes range from 15 to 40 students, depending on the school type, and punctuality and professionalism are expected.

In Indonesia, the classroom atmosphere tends to be more relaxed. Students are respectful and polite but less pressured by performance compared to their Vietnamese peers. Teachers often have more flexibility in how they deliver lessons, particularly in private language centers and volunteer settings. Class sizes are usually smaller, and there’s less emphasis on standardized outcomes — which can be a breath of fresh air for those looking for a slower teaching rhythm.

Vietnam is a good fit if you thrive in dynamic environments and don’t mind some hustle. Indonesia may appeal more if you’re drawn to a calm, culturally immersive experience with more breathing room between lessons.

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Vietnam’s high energy and structure in the classroom vs Indonesia’s more relaxed pace and flexible expectations.

Lifestyle and Day-to-Day Living

When it comes to lifestyle, Vietnam and Indonesia offer very different vibes. Vietnam’s cities buzz with motorbikes, street food, modern cafés, and a social culture that thrives on late-night eats and strong coffee. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are especially popular among expats for their lively energy and growing number of coworking spaces, gyms, rooftop bars, and restaurants. The dating scene is fairly active, especially in larger cities, and locals tend to be curious and open toward foreigners.

Indonesia, on the other hand, offers a slower, more spiritual rhythm to life. Daily life here often revolves around religion — predominantly Islam — which influences everything from dress codes to business hours. While Jakarta offers some big-city convenience, many expats choose to live in places like Bali or Yogyakarta for a more relaxed lifestyle. Think beach sunsets, yoga classes, and scooter rides through rice fields. The expat community is strong, particularly in Bali, and social life often blends with wellness, surfing, or nature exploration.

Both countries are safe overall, though petty theft can be an issue in touristy areas. Travel within each country is easy and affordable, whether you’re exploring Vietnam’s mountain towns or hopping between Indonesian islands.

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Vietnam’s fast-paced city life and coffee-fueled culture vs Indonesia’s spiritual ambiance, island adventures, and slower rhythm.

Long-Term Potential

If you're planning to stay for a few years or build a life abroad, the long-term prospects in each country diverge. Vietnam offers decent visa stability, with 1- to 2-year work permits available and options for digital nomads or freelancers to transition into residence through business setups. The country is increasingly welcoming to remote workers, and its growing economy makes it easier to find upward mobility — whether within the education sector or branching into marketing, hospitality, or tech.

Indonesia, in contrast, has stricter visa regulations. Most teaching contracts are tied closely to specific employers, and switching jobs often requires reapplying for a new visa. Freelance and remote work can be done under the radar, but legal pathways are more limited. That said, Bali and other digital nomad hubs do offer a welcoming scene — if you're okay with doing “visa runs” or hopping between short-term options.

Language learning plays a role in integration in both countries. Vietnamese is tonal and more difficult to master, but learning even basic phrases can go a long way. Bahasa Indonesia is easier to pick up and widely spoken, which can help you settle in quicker. Both countries offer a good quality of life for expats, but Vietnam tends to suit those aiming for career growth and longer-term residency, while Indonesia appeals more to those prioritizing lifestyle, travel, or semi-retirement.

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Vietnam’s rising digital nomad appeal and career ladders vs Indonesia’s tourism-focused economy and tighter visa limitations.

Which Country Is Right for You?

Still torn between Vietnam and Indonesia? Here's a quick side-by-side comparison to help you weigh your options:

You Might Prefer Vietnam If:

• You want to earn and save more money while teaching
• You enjoy busy cities, fast Wi-Fi, and lots of café culture
• You’re looking for long-term opportunities or a career pivot
• You prefer a more structured classroom and academic environment
• You want to explore a country that’s rapidly modernizing but still deeply local

You Might Prefer Indonesia If:

• You’re seeking a slower pace of life and love being close to nature
• You’re drawn to yoga, surfing, and island adventures
• You’re okay with more modest pay in exchange for a laid-back lifestyle
• You value spirituality, community, and daily simplicity
• You’re open to shorter teaching stints or combining work with travel

Wherever you go, both countries offer the chance to grow as a teacher, immerse yourself in vibrant cultures, and create meaningful memories. Your ideal destination depends on what kind of life you want to build — fast-moving and future-focused, or peaceful and present.

Explore more:

• Teach English in Vietnam
• Teach English in Indonesia