Top TEFL Destinations: Where to Teach English Abroad This Year

Each year, the landscape of English teaching shifts a little. Some countries remain steady favorites, offering teachers a rewarding mix of culture, comfort, and career growth. Others suddenly emerge as rising stars — with expanding job markets, better visa options, or an unbeatable quality of life. For anyone dreaming of taking their teaching skills abroad, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years yet.

Maybe you're drawn to the big cities of Asia, the cobblestone charm of Europe, or the relaxed rhythm of Latin America. Or maybe you’re just looking for a fresh start — somewhere with sunshine, good food, and students eager to learn. The world is wide open right now, and teaching English remains one of the most accessible, meaningful, and flexible ways to experience it.

What Makes a Great TEFL Destination?

Not every teaching destination fits every traveler — and that’s part of the fun. But if you’re serious about making the move, there are a few key things to look for in a great TEFL location this year:

• Strong demand for English teachers: A healthy job market means more choices, better conditions, and a smoother hiring process.
• Reasonable visa options: Some countries make it easy to live and work legally. Others? Not so much. Choose places where the paperwork won’t leave you stuck.
• Cost of living vs. salary: A high paycheck doesn’t always mean more savings. What really matters is how far your money goes once you’re there.
• Lifestyle and cultural appeal: Think beyond the classroom — what’s it like to eat, explore, and unwind in that country?
• Supportive expat community: Moving abroad is a lot easier when you’ve got people who’ve done it before — and are happy to help.
• Career-building potential: Whether you’re in it for a year or the long haul, look for places that help you grow as a teacher.

Some countries tick all the boxes. Others shine in just one or two. But when you find the right match for your goals, background, and vibe — that’s where the magic happens.

Perennial Favorites: The TEFL Powerhouses

Some countries never fall out of favor — and for good reason. These are the destinations with strong infrastructure, consistent demand, and reliable benefits. Whether you're just starting out or already have classroom experience, these TEFL powerhouses continue to deliver in 2025.

🇰🇷 South Korea

South Korea has long been one of the top picks for English teachers — and it’s not slowing down. With competitive salaries, free housing, flight reimbursement, and year-end bonuses, it’s one of the best places to save money while teaching. Public school programs like EPIK, SMOE, and GEPIK offer structured environments, while private language academies (hagwons) provide year-round hiring and more flexibility.

Beyond the job perks, life in Korea is modern, fast-paced, and full of surprises. Think bustling street markets, sleek cafés, and weekend hikes in the mountains. Teachers are generally respected, and there’s a tight-knit expat community to lean on.

Why it’s still a top choice:

• High salary + benefits = strong savings potential
• Urban convenience meets deep culture
• Visa and hiring processes are well-established

🇯🇵 Japan

Japan offers one of the most structured entry points into the TEFL world. Government-sponsored programs like JET are known for their stability and cultural immersion, while private employers such as Interac and AEON offer alternatives for teachers wanting to get started more quickly.

Living in Japan means a unique balance of tradition and innovation — ancient temples and tea ceremonies right alongside bullet trains and vending machines that sell everything. It’s clean, safe, and beautifully ordered, with a deep cultural respect for education. While the cost of living can be high in cities like Tokyo or Osaka, the experience more than makes up for it.

Why teachers keep coming back:

• Excellent programs for first-timers
• Professionalism and structure
• Fascinating culture with incredible travel options

🇨🇳 China

Despite a rocky few years, China remains one of the largest and most dynamic ESL markets in the world. The country offers a huge variety of teaching environments — from high-paying jobs in private international schools and training centers to more laid-back positions at public schools and universities. Visa processes have stabilized again post-COVID, and many schools now provide step-by-step guidance.

In major cities like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Beijing, salaries are high and the lifestyle is fast-moving. For those willing to explore smaller cities or rural areas, the cultural immersion can be even more profound. The scale of opportunity in China — both financially and professionally — is hard to match.

Why it still dominates the TEFL scene:

• Massive demand for teachers
• High earning potential
• Deep cultural experiences across a vast, diverse country

Rising Stars in 2025

While some TEFL destinations have been on the map for years, others are gaining momentum fast — thanks to shifting visa policies, growing demand, and improved support for foreign teachers. These rising stars are worth serious consideration if you’re looking for somewhere with fresh opportunities and a great quality of life.

🇻🇳 Vietnam

Vietnam is having a TEFL moment — and it’s only picking up steam in 2025. English education is a national priority, and the demand for teachers is surging, especially in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Jobs range from public schools to private centers, with plenty of room for freelance tutoring or teaching adults.

What makes Vietnam so attractive isn’t just the jobs — it’s the lifestyle. Low cost of living, excellent food, friendly locals, and a vibrant expat scene make it a favorite for teachers who want balance and freedom. And unlike stricter countries, Vietnam is relatively open to non-native speakers and teachers without a degree (especially if you're experienced or have a strong TEFL).

Why Vietnam’s booming:

• Easy entry for qualified teachers
• Growing job market with flexible options
• Great quality of life without breaking the bank

🇹🇼 Taiwan

Taiwan is one of the best-kept secrets in the TEFL world — but that’s changing. More and more teachers are catching on to its friendly vibe, solid salaries, and high quality of life. From public schools to buxibans (cram schools), jobs are widely available, especially for native English speakers with a degree and TEFL certificate.

What sets Taiwan apart is its incredible work-life balance. It’s clean, safe, and efficient, with nature never far away — think lush mountains, beaches, and hot springs just outside the city. The expat community is supportive and tight-knit, and locals are famously welcoming.

Why Taiwan’s on the rise:

• Strong teacher demand with decent pay
• Easy travel and rich natural beauty
• A gentle introduction to East Asia

🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia & 🇶🇦 Qatar

The Gulf is back on the radar in 2025 — especially for experienced teachers looking to maximize their income. Saudi Arabia and Qatar, in particular, are investing heavily in education as part of broader national development plans. Salaries are tax-free, benefits are top-tier, and positions in international schools or colleges often come with housing, flights, and health insurance.

These destinations aren’t for everyone. The lifestyle is more conservative, and the cultural adjustment can be steep. But for those willing to adapt — especially male teachers with teaching credentials — the rewards are substantial.

Why the Gulf is heating up:

• Some of the highest-paying jobs in the ESL world
• Generous benefits and career advancement
• Ideal for licensed teachers and those seeking financial gains

Best for First-Time Teachers

Taking the leap into teaching abroad can feel overwhelming — especially if it’s your first time. But some destinations make that jump a little easier, offering lower barriers to entry, a welcoming expat community, and a fun, low-pressure way to get your feet wet. Whether you're fresh out of university or changing careers, these options are perfect starting points.

🇹🇭 Thailand

Thailand remains a TEFL favorite — and it’s no surprise why. With its postcard beaches, bustling cities, and friendly culture, it’s an incredibly rewarding place to teach and live. But beyond the lifestyle, it’s also a smart choice for first-timers.

Entry requirements are relatively flexible, especially compared to places like Japan or South Korea. A degree and TEFL certificate are usually enough to land a job, even without teaching experience. Public schools, private language centers, and rural placements all offer great opportunities to build skills while enjoying a laid-back pace of life.

Why first-timers love Thailand:

• Welcoming to new teachers with little experience
• Easy lifestyle and vibrant local culture
• Plenty of support from an established expat scene

🇰🇭 Cambodia

If you don’t have a degree, Cambodia is one of the few places where you can still teach legally. And even if you do have a degree, it’s a relaxed, beginner-friendly market with tons of opportunity and very little red tape.

Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are hotspots for teaching jobs, but even smaller towns often have language schools looking for motivated teachers. You won’t find high salaries here, but your money goes far — and the cultural experience is rich and immersive.

Why Cambodia stands out:

• No degree? No problem — TEFL is often enough
• Simple visa process and welcoming atmosphere
• Great for cultural immersion and building confidence

💻 Online Teaching

For those not ready to commit to moving abroad just yet, online teaching is the ultimate soft landing. In 2025, it's still a booming market — and one of the best ways to gain classroom experience, build your resume, or earn a side income while traveling.

Some platforms require a degree and native-speaker status, but many others don’t. Sites like Cambly, Preply, and AmazingTalker are open to a wide range of teachers. It’s also a great way to test your teaching style and preferences before choosing an in-person destination.

Why online teaching is a top choice for beginners:

• Start earning from anywhere with just a laptop and TEFL
• Low pressure, flexible hours, and valuable experience
• Ideal stepping stone before moving abroad

Best for Building a Long-Term Career

Some people go abroad to teach for a year — others turn it into a full-on lifestyle or career. If you're looking beyond the backpacker phase and want a role that builds your résumé, expands your professional network, or sets you up for future opportunities, these countries are ideal stepping stones.

🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Dubai and Abu Dhabi aren’t just playgrounds for the wealthy — they’re also serious hubs for career-minded educators. The UAE offers some of the highest salaries in the TEFL world, often tax-free, and packages typically include housing, flights, and health insurance.

But it’s not just about the money. Many schools are well-resourced and professionally run, with high expectations and strong support systems. Teachers with licenses, education degrees, or solid classroom experience will find opportunities at international schools, language institutes, and even universities.

Why the UAE works for career-minded teachers:

• Competitive, tax-free salaries and generous benefits
• Professional, stable teaching environments
• Great international school experience for your CV

🇨🇱 Chile & 🇨🇴 Colombia

South America may not offer the high salaries of the Gulf, but it makes up for it with long-term lifestyle appeal, emerging markets, and a growing demand for English — especially in business and university settings.

Both Chile and Colombia are increasingly investing in English education, opening doors for teachers who want to stay longer and grow professionally. You’ll find opportunities at private institutes, bilingual schools, NGOs, and through government-backed programs. And since both countries have strong regional connections, you can turn a single job into a long-term Latin American teaching journey.

Why Chile and Colombia appeal to long-haul teachers:

• Room to grow in developing ESL markets
• Strong demand for experienced and committed teachers
• Work-life balance, travel, and cultural richness

Underrated Gems Worth Considering

Not every great TEFL destination is splashed across Instagram or flooded with job boards. Some of the most rewarding places to teach are the ones flying under the radar — where you’ll stand out, make a real impact, and enjoy a slower pace of life with lower costs and fewer crowds. These hidden gems might surprise you in 2025.

🇬🇪 Georgia

Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia is gaining attention as a TEFL destination with charm and character. The government has previously run initiatives to bring English teachers into public schools, and demand in private sectors is steadily increasing. The cost of living is low, the visa process is smooth for many nationalities, and the lifestyle — think mountain villages, wine country, and warm hospitality — is as rich as the classroom experience.

Why Georgia deserves a look:

• Easy long-term visa options for many countries
• Affordable lifestyle in both cities and countryside
• Strong cultural immersion in an emerging market

🇷🇴 Romania

If you’re curious about Europe but want to avoid high costs and saturated markets, Romania could be your sweet spot. As an EU member, it offers stability and accessibility, but it hasn’t (yet) seen the ESL teaching boom of countries like Spain or Italy. Schools often welcome non-native speakers with fluent English and a TEFL certificate. The country also offers a vibrant mix of medieval towns, nature, and a surprisingly good expat scene.

Why Romania is quietly appealing:

• EU access with lower living costs
• Growing need for English across industries
• Open-minded hiring practices and relaxed lifestyle

🇮🇩 Indonesia

While Bali might grab the headlines, Indonesia as a whole is an exciting TEFL destination with lots of room to grow. Cities like Jakarta and Surabaya have a rising middle class eager for English education, while Bali remains a magnet for teachers seeking a beachside, yoga-meets-classroom lifestyle. Many private schools and language centers are hiring in 2025, and with the right qualifications, it’s a legal and rewarding option — especially for those who value nature, spirituality, and slow living.

Why Indonesia is on the rise:

• Flexible hiring for certified teachers
• A perfect mix of urban demand and island living
• Ideal for long-stay nomads and cultural explorers

How to Match Your Goals to the Right Destination

Choosing the right TEFL destination isn’t just about chasing rankings or the most popular spots — it’s about aligning with what you value most. Whether you're in it for fast savings, life experience, career development, or the easiest legal entry, here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you match your goals to the countries that fit.

Keep in mind that many countries tick multiple boxes — the key is prioritizing what matters most to you. Want stability and growth? Focus on places with professional school systems and licensing. Craving a slow, simple life? Go for culture-rich countries with fewer hoops to jump through.

Final Thoughts: Where Will You TEFL in 2025?

There’s no shortage of amazing places to teach English abroad this year. Whether you’re dreaming of temple-hopping between classes in Chiang Mai, saving big in Seoul, or sipping coffee in a Romanian café after work, 2025 has something to offer every kind of teacher.

The key is knowing what you want — and taking that first step.

Get TEFL certified if you haven’t yet. Do your research on visa rules. Talk to current teachers. And most of all, stay open to the surprises and lessons that come with living and working in a different part of the world.

🌎 The world is wide open in 2025. So… where will you TEFL?