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

Teach English in Paraguay

There are several reasons why someone might choose to teach English in Paraguay:

Experience a new culture: Paraguay is a unique and largely undiscovered country in South America with a rich history and culture. Teaching English in Paraguay provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in this culture and learn more about the country and its people.
Make a difference: Many people in Paraguay are eager to learn English, which is considered a valuable skill in today's globalized world. Teaching English in Paraguay can provide an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of students and help them achieve their goals.
Personal growth: Teaching English in a foreign country can be a challenging but rewarding experience that can help you grow personally and professionally. It can provide an opportunity to develop your teaching skills, improve your language abilities, and gain a greater understanding of different cultures.
Affordable living costs: Paraguay is known for having relatively low living costs compared to other countries in South America. This can make it an attractive option for those looking to teach English abroad on a budget.
Great location: Paraguay is located in the heart of South America, making it a convenient base for exploring the region. It is also a short flight from major cities in Brazil, Argentina, and Chile.

What are the requirements to teach English in Paraguay?

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

A bachelor's degree: Most schools and language centers in Paraguay require teachers to have a bachelor's degree in any subject. Some schools may also require a teaching certification, such as a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults).
A valid passport: You will need a valid passport to enter Paraguay and work as an English teacher.
A clean criminal record: Many schools in Paraguay will require a criminal background check as part of the hiring process.
Language proficiency: While you do not need to be a native English speaker to teach English in Paraguay, you should have a high level of proficiency in the language. Most schools will expect you to have a near-native level of fluency and a good command of grammar and vocabulary.
A flexible and adaptable personality: Teaching English in Paraguay can be a rewarding but challenging experience, and it is important to be flexible and adaptable in order to succeed. You should be open to new experiences and willing to adapt to different teaching methods and cultural norms.
Teaching experience: While not always required, teaching experience can be beneficial when seeking a job as an English teacher in Paraguay. Many schools prefer to hire teachers with some prior teaching experience, whether in a classroom or online.

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

The salary that you can earn as an English teacher in Paraguay will depend on a variety of factors, including your qualifications, experience, and the type of institution you are working for. In general, English teachers in Paraguay can expect to earn a salary that is sufficient to cover their living expenses in the country. However, it is worth noting that the cost of living in Paraguay is generally lower than in other countries in South America, so your salary may not go as far as it would in a more expensive country.

The average salary for an English teacher in Paraguay is around $800-1,000 per month. This amount can vary based on your qualifications and experience, as well as the location and type of institution you are working for. Some schools and language centers may offer higher salaries, while others may offer lower salaries. It is important to research the market and negotiate your salary before accepting a teaching position in Paraguay.

What is the cost of living in Paraguay?

The cost of living in Paraguay is generally lower than in many other countries in South America and around the world. Prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation are generally lower than in other major cities in the region.

According to Numbeo, a website that provides cost of living data for cities around the world, the average cost of living in Asunción, the capital city of Paraguay, is around 30% lower than in Santiago, Chile, and 45% lower than in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Here are some estimates of the costs of common expenses in Asunción:

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $350-$450 per month.
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): $60-$80 per month.
Internet: $25-$30 per month.
Local phone plan: $15-$20 per month.
Groceries: $200-$300 per month.
Transportation: $20-$30 per month.
Entertainment (movies, restaurants, etc.): $100-$200 per month.

It is important to note that these estimates are just rough averages, and actual costs may vary depending on your lifestyle and spending habits. It is always a good idea to research and budget carefully before moving to a new place.

The best places to teach English In Paraguay

There are several cities in Paraguay where you may be able to find opportunities to teach English. Some of the best places to consider include:

Asunción: Asunción is the capital and largest city of Paraguay, and it is home to a number of language schools and institutes that hire English teachers. It is a lively city with a rich cultural heritage, and it offers a wide range of activities and attractions for residents and visitors.
Ciudad del Este: Ciudad del Este is a major commercial center located in the eastern region of Paraguay, near the border with Brazil. It is a popular destination for tourists and is home to a number of language schools that hire English teachers.
Encarnación: Encarnación is a city located in the southern region of Paraguay, near the border with Argentina. It is known for its beautiful beaches and is a popular tourist destination. There are also a number of language schools and institutes in the city that hire English teachers.
Pedro Juan Caballero: Pedro Juan Caballero is a city located in the eastern region of Paraguay, near the border with Brazil. It is a major commercial center and is home to a number of language schools and institutes that hire English teachers.
Villarrica: Villarrica is a city located in the central region of Paraguay, near the border with Argentina. It is known for its beautiful lakes and is a popular tourist destination. There are also a number of language schools and institutes in the city that hire English teachers.

Overall, the best place to teach English in Paraguay will depend on your personal preferences and goals. It is important to research the different cities and regions of the country and consider factors such as cost of living, cultural attractions, and job opportunities before making a decision.

Living in Paraguay

Living in Paraguay can be a rewarding and enriching experience, as it provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in a unique and largely undiscovered culture. Paraguay is known for its friendly and welcoming people, and expats who move to the country often find it easy to make friends and build a social network.

Here are a few things to consider if you are thinking about living in Paraguay:

Language: While many people in Paraguay speak some English, it can be helpful to learn some Spanish in order to communicate with locals and fully participate in the culture. There are many language schools and programs in Paraguay that can help you learn Spanish.
Housing: Housing in Paraguay is generally more affordable than in many other countries in South America. You can find a variety of housing options, ranging from apartments and houses to guesthouses and hostels. It is a good idea to research and compare different options before making a decision.
Healthcare: Paraguay has a public healthcare system, which is generally considered to be of good quality. However, expats may prefer to purchase private healthcare insurance in order to have access to a wider range of options and faster treatment.
Transportation: Public transportation in Paraguay is generally reliable and inexpensive. You can find buses, taxis, and mini-buses in most cities, and it is also possible to rent a car or use ride-sharing services.
Culture: Paraguay has a rich and diverse culture that is influenced by indigenous, European, and African traditions. Expats who live in the country have the opportunity to learn about and participate in this culture through festivals, music, art, and other cultural activities.

Overall, living in Paraguay can be an exciting and fulfilling experience for those who are open to new experiences and willing to adapt to a new culture. It is important to research and plan carefully before moving to the country in order to ensure a smooth transition.

Some facts About Paraguay

Here are some facts about Paraguay:

Paraguay is a country located in South America, bordered by Argentina to the south and southwest, Brazil to the east and northeast, and Bolivia to the northwest.
The official language of Paraguay is Spanish.
The population of Paraguay is about 7 million people. The majority of the population is mestizo, but there are also significant minority groups of indigenous peoples and Europeans.
The capital and largest city of Paraguay is Asunción.
The currency of Paraguay is the Paraguayan Guarani.
Paraguay has a mixed economy that includes elements of both a market economy and a planned economy. The country is known for its strong agricultural and service sectors, as well as its production of electricity, steel, and cement.
Paraguay is a presidential representative democratic republic, with a president as the head of state and a vice president as the head of government.
Paraguay is a member of the United Nations, the World Bank, and the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Paraguay has a rich cultural history, with influences from its indigenous, Spanish, and German past. The country is known for its music, literature, and traditional handicrafts.
Paraguay is home to a number of natural attractions, including the Pantanal wetland, the Itaipu Dam, and the Chaco dry forest. The country is also known for its cultural sites, including the Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangue.