Teach English in Panama: Requirements, Salary, Jobs (2024)

Teach English in Panama

There are several reasons why someone might want to teach English in Panama:

Panama is a popular tourist destination, and there is a demand for English teachers due to the large number of tourists who visit the country each year.
The cost of living in Panama is relatively low, so English teachers can save money while living and working in the country.
Panama is a diverse and multicultural country with a rich history and culture. Teaching English in Panama provides an opportunity to learn about and experience this culture firsthand.
Panama is a good place to learn Spanish, as the country is located in Central America and Spanish is the official language. This can be a great opportunity for English teachers to improve their own language skills.
Panama has a strong economy and is a hub for international trade, so there are many job opportunities for English teachers.

Overall, teaching English in Panama can be a rewarding and enriching experience for those interested in living and working abroad.

What are the requirements to teach English in Panama?

To teach English in Panama, you will typically need to meet the following requirements:

A bachelor's degree: Most schools and language institutes in Panama require their English teachers to have at least a bachelor's degree in any subject.
A teaching certification: Many schools and language institutes in Panama prefer to hire teachers who have a teaching certification, such as a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) certificate.
Native-level English proficiency: Most schools and language institutes in Panama require their English teachers to be native English speakers or to have native-level proficiency in the language.
A clean criminal record: Some schools and language institutes in Panama may require a background check or a police clearance certificate as part of the hiring process.
A valid work visa: To work legally in Panama, you will need to obtain a work visa. This can typically be done through your employer or by applying for one on your own.

It's also worth noting that some schools and language institutes may have additional requirements, such as a minimum number of years of teaching experience or a specific teaching style. It's important to check with the specific school or institute you are applying to for their specific requirements.

What salary can you earn as an English teacher in Panama?

The salary you can earn as an English teacher in Panama will depend on a variety of factors, including your qualifications, experience, and the specific school or institute you are working for. Here are some rough estimates of the salary you might expect to earn as an English teacher in Panama:

Entry-level English teacher: $800-$1,000 per month.
Experienced English teacher: $1,200-$1,500 per month.
Highly qualified and experienced English teacher: $1,500-$2,000 per month.

It's worth noting that these estimates are just rough guidelines, and your actual salary may be higher or lower depending on your specific circumstances. Additionally, the cost of living in Panama is relatively low, so even a lower salary may go further in Panama than it would in other countries.

What is the cost of living in Panama?

The cost of living in Panama varies depending on the specific location and the lifestyle of the individual. However, overall, Panama is known for having a relatively low cost of living compared to many other countries. Here are some estimates of the costs of common expenses in Panama:

Rent: $400-$800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in a city, $200-$400 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in a smaller town.
Groceries: $200-$400 per month.
Transportation: $50-$100 per month for public transportation, $400-$800 per month for a car (depending on the make and model).
Entertainment: $100-$200 per month for dining out and going out to bars and clubs.

Again, these are just rough estimates, and your actual costs may be higher or lower depending on your specific circumstances. It's worth noting that the cost of living in Panama is generally lower in smaller towns and cities outside of Panama City, and higher in more touristy areas and in the capital city.

The best places to teach English In Panama

There are many good places to teach English in Panama, and the best place for you will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. Here are a few places that are popular among English teachers in Panama:

Panama City: The capital city of Panama is a hub for business, finance, and tourism, and there are many opportunities for English teachers in the city. Panama City is a modern and cosmopolitan city with a vibrant nightlife and a wide range of cultural attractions.
Boquete: Located in the Chiriqui province of Panama, Boquete is a small town known for its cooler climate and stunning natural beauty. It's a popular destination for retirees and expats, and there are several language schools in the area that hire English teachers.
Bocas del Toro: Located on the Caribbean coast of Panama, Bocas del Toro is a laid-back beach town known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe. It's a popular destination for tourists, and there are several language schools and other organizations that hire English teachers in the area.
David: Located in the Chiriqui province of Panama, David is the second-largest city in the country and a hub for business and commerce. There are several language schools and other organizations that hire English teachers in the area.

Ultimately, the best place to teach English in Panama will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. Panama is a diverse and multicultural country, and there are many different areas that offer a unique experience.

Living in Panama

Living in Panama can be a rewarding and enriching experience for those interested in living and working abroad. Panama is a diverse and multicultural country with a rich history and culture, and it offers a wide range of living options to suit different lifestyles and budgets. Here are a few things to consider when living in Panama:

Cost of living: As mentioned earlier, the cost of living in Panama is relatively low compared to many other countries. However, costs can vary depending on the specific location and the lifestyle of the individual.
Housing options: Panama offers a wide range of housing options, from modern apartments in the city to more traditional houses in smaller towns and rural areas. Rent prices can vary widely depending on the location and the quality of the property.
Safety: Panama is generally a safe country, but as with any country, there are certain areas that are safer than others. It's a good idea to research the safety of different neighborhoods before deciding where to live.
Climate: Panama has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures that generally range from 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit (21-32 degrees Celsius). The country has two main seasons: a dry season (December to April) and a rainy season (May to November).
Language: Spanish is the official language of Panama, and it's a good idea to learn at least some basic Spanish when living in the country. Many Panamanians also speak English, especially in the tourism industry and in the capital city, but it's still helpful to have some basic Spanish skills.

Overall, living in Panama can be a rewarding and enriching experience for those interested in immersing themselves in a new culture and way of life.

Some facts About Panama

Here are some facts about Panama:

Panama is a country located in Central America, bordered by Costa Rica to the north and Colombia to the south. It also has a long coastline along the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
The official language of Panama is Spanish.
Panama has a population of about 4.2 million people.
The capital of Panama is Panama City, which is known for its rich cultural and artistic traditions, as well as its history and architecture.
Panama has a diverse landscape, which includes mountains, forests, and beaches.
Panama is a member of the Central American Integration System.
Panama is known for its contributions to art and culture, including literature, music, and cinema.
Panama is also home to many famous landmarks, such as the Panama Canal, the San Blas Islands, and the Darien National Park.
Panama has a long and rich history, with a culture that reflects its indigenous, Spanish, and African influences.
Panama is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as ceviche, empanadas, and arroz con pollo. It is also home to many famous coffee and cocoa plantations.