The Best Paid TEFL Internships In Spain
Last Updated on March 10, 2024
Spain draws people in with its warm climate, tapas culture, and vibrant street life—but it’s also a serious contender for anyone looking to teach English abroad. From the flamenco rhythms of Andalusia to the cosmopolitan energy of Madrid and Barcelona, there’s no shortage of inspiring places to live and work. Add in the growing demand for English education, especially in public schools and language academies, and you’ve got a compelling teaching destination.
That said, finding a job in Spain as a foreigner—especially if you’re coming from outside the EU—can be challenging. Schools often prefer EU citizens, and visa sponsorship can be complicated or unavailable. For first-time teachers or recent graduates, this makes the traditional application route tough. Paid TEFL internships offer a practical alternative: they include TEFL certification, help with legal and housing logistics, and guarantee placements that might otherwise be out of reach. Whether you’re chasing culture, career experience, or a lifestyle reset, Spain’s internships offer a supported way to make it all happen.
Why Choose a TEFL Internship in Spain?
- Secure a guaranteed teaching placement without navigating Spain’s complex school system alone
- Ideal for non-EU citizens (some programs include visa support)
- Cultural immersion through homestays, local schools, or regional placements
- Build your résumé while enjoying a low-pressure, short-term experience
- Access to TEFL training, orientation, and mentorship
TEFL internships in Spain are especially appealing for those who want more than just a job—they offer a lifestyle. Whether you're dreaming of sunny afternoons in Seville or weekend getaways to coastal towns, internships give you a soft landing into both the classroom and Spanish culture. And if you’re coming from outside the EU, these structured programs can be the difference between hitting a wall and finding your way in.
What to Expect From a TEFL Internship in Spain
- TEFL course (online, blended, or included as a prerequisite)
- Teaching placement (typically 3–9 months) in schools or language academies
- Monthly stipend or grant (enough for basic living expenses)
- Support with housing arrangements (homestay or self-arranged)
- Visa assistance (varies by program and your nationality)
- Pre-departure guidance + cultural orientation
- Most placements are in public schools or private language centers across Spain (Madrid, Andalusia, Valencia, etc.)
While the salary or stipend might not lead to major savings, it’s enough to live modestly—and richly in experience. You’ll typically work around 20 hours per week, leaving plenty of time for language learning, regional travel, and cultural exploration. Whether placed in a bustling city or a quieter town, you’ll get to see a side of Spain few tourists ever do.
Best Paid TEFL Internships in Spain
🇪🇸 The TEFL Academy – Spain Internship
The TEFL Academy’s Spain Internship is a structured route into Spanish classrooms for those seeking both experience and adventure. The program includes an accredited Level 5 TEFL course, followed by a 4–6 month teaching placement in a public or private school setting.
Interns are matched with schools across Spain—from the bustling streets of Madrid to smaller towns in Andalusia—and receive a monthly stipend, housing support, and in-country assistance. Cultural orientation and language tips are also built in, helping you adjust quickly to life in Spain.
🇪🇸 Premier TEFL – Spain Internship
Premier TEFL’s Spain Internship blends online TEFL training with a guaranteed teaching placement in local schools. It’s perfect for new teachers who want strong mentoring, cultural exchange, and a supported first step into the TEFL world.
You’ll receive a monthly allowance, help with housing arrangements, and local orientation support to make your transition as smooth as possible. Whether you’re placed in a historic city or a quieter regional town, the program encourages deep engagement with Spanish life, language, and learning.
🇪🇸 The TEFL Institute – Teach English in Spain Internship
The TEFL Institute’s Spain Internship is ideal for first-time teachers, students on a gap year, or career explorers who want a supported, short-term teaching experience in Europe. It includes a 4–9 month school placement, often in public schools or academies across cities like Valencia, Seville, or Malaga.
With housing support, visa guidance, and access to ongoing mentorship, this internship makes it easy to live and teach in Spain—even if you don’t speak the language yet. It’s a great pick for anyone looking for structure without sacrificing freedom and cultural exploration.
How to Choose the Right Internship in Spain
- EU citizenship: Do you need a visa, or are you eligible to work freely?
- Placement region: Big cities vs. smaller towns—what lifestyle are you after?
- Type of school: Public school, private academy, or homestay tutoring
- Level of support: Visa help, accommodation guidance, and mentorship availability
- Financial terms: Is it a full salary or a modest stipend? Are expenses covered?
- Course format: Do you prefer to complete TEFL training before or during your internship?
Who These Internships Are Best For
- First-time teachers wanting to ease into TEFL with support
- Non-EU passport holders who need visa-friendly teaching paths
- University graduates looking for a meaningful gap year
- Travelers who want a cultural deep dive with some income
- People exploring whether teaching abroad is right for them
Final Thoughts
Spain offers the perfect mix of lifestyle and learning for new TEFL teachers—but going it alone can be difficult. Paid internships make that transition smoother with training, placement, and support. Whether you want to test the waters for a semester or stay longer, these programs help you start your teaching journey with confidence.
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