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

Teach English in Portugal

There are several reasons why teaching English in Portugal might be an attractive option for English language teachers:

The demand for English language education is high in Portugal, particularly in the larger cities like Lisbon and Porto. This means that there are many opportunities for English language teachers to find work.
The cost of living in Portugal is generally lower compared to other Western European countries, so it can be an affordable place to live and work as an English language teacher.
Portugal is a beautiful and culturally rich country, with a rich history and a Mediterranean climate. It is known for its stunning beaches, charming villages, and vibrant cities, making it a great place to live and work.
Portugal is a member of the European Union, which means that it is relatively easy for citizens of other EU countries to work and live there.
English is widely spoken in Portugal, particularly in the business and tourism sectors, so there are many opportunities for English language teachers to use their skills outside of the classroom.

Overall, teaching English in Portugal can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for those who are interested in living and working in a vibrant and culturally rich country.

What are the requirements to teach English in Portugal?

To teach English in Portugal, you will generally need to meet the following requirements:

Have a bachelor's degree: Most schools and language centers in Portugal require English language teachers to have a bachelor's degree in any subject.
Have a teaching qualification: While it is not strictly required to have a teaching qualification to teach English in Portugal, it is highly recommended. The most widely recognized teaching qualifications are the CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) and the Trinity TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages).
Have a high level of English language proficiency: You will need to be able to speak, read, and write English at a high level in order to teach it effectively.
Have a valid passport: You will need a valid passport to enter and work in Portugal. If you are a citizen of an EU country, you do not need a visa to work in Portugal. If you are a citizen of a non-EU country, you may need to apply for a work visa.
Have a clean criminal record: Many schools and language centers in Portugal will require you to provide a criminal background check as part of the hiring process.
Have a good level of Portuguese: While it is not necessary to be fluent in Portuguese to teach English in Portugal, it is helpful to have a good level of understanding of the language, as it will make it easier for you to communicate with your students and integrate into Portuguese society.

Overall, the requirements to teach English in Portugal are not particularly strict, but having a teaching qualification and a high level of English language proficiency will make you a more competitive job candidate.

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

The salary you can earn as an English teacher in Portugal will depend on a number of factors, including your qualifications, experience, and the type of job you are working. Generally, English language teachers in Portugal can expect to earn between €800 and €1,500 per month, depending on these factors.

Teachers who have a bachelor's degree and a teaching qualification, such as the CELTA or Trinity TESOL, are likely to be able to command higher salaries than those who do not have these qualifications. Teachers who have more experience may also be able to negotiate higher salaries.

In addition to a base salary, many English language teachers in Portugal also receive additional benefits, such as housing assistance, health insurance, and paid vacation time. Some schools and language centers may also provide assistance with obtaining a work visa, if necessary.

Overall, the salary you can earn as an English teacher in Portugal is competitive compared to other countries in Europe, and the cost of living in Portugal is generally lower than in other Western European countries, so you may be able to save money while working and living in Portugal.

What is the cost of living in Portugal?

The cost of living in Portugal is generally lower compared to other Western European countries, such as France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The cost of living in Portugal varies depending on the location and lifestyle of the individual, but on average, a single person can expect to spend around €800-1,000 per month on living expenses in Portugal, including rent, food, transportation, and other necessities.

Housing costs in Portugal vary depending on the location and type of accommodation. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can range from €400-800 per month, while rent for a similar apartment in a suburban area may be slightly cheaper.

Food costs in Portugal are generally lower than in other Western European countries, with the exception of some imported items. Basic groceries can be purchased for relatively low prices at local markets and supermarkets. Dining out at restaurants is also generally inexpensive compared to other Western European countries.

Transportation costs in Portugal are generally reasonable, with public transportation options such as buses and trains available in most cities. The cost of a monthly public transportation pass can range from €30-50, depending on the location.

Overall, the cost of living in Portugal is generally lower compared to other Western European countries, making it an affordable place to live and work.

The best places to teach English In Portugal

The best places to teach English in Portugal will depend on your personal preferences and what you are looking for in a teaching location. Some popular options for teaching English in Portugal include:

Lisbon: Lisbon is the capital and largest city in Portugal, and it is a popular destination for English language teachers. It is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions, making it a great place to live and work.
Porto: Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, and it is known for its beautiful beaches, historic center, and world-famous port wine. It is a popular destination for tourists, which means there is a demand for English language teachers in the city.
Algarve: The Algarve is a region in the south of Portugal known for its stunning beaches and sunny climate. It is a popular vacation destination, and there are many opportunities for English language teachers in the region.
Setúbal: Setúbal is a city located south of Lisbon, and it is known for its beautiful beaches and seafood. It is a more laid-back alternative to Lisbon, and it is a great place to live and work as an English language teacher.

Overall, there are many great places to teach English in Portugal, and the best option for you will depend on your personal preferences and what you are looking for in a teaching location.

Living in Portugal

Living in Portugal can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for those who are interested in experiencing the country's rich culture and beautiful landscapes. Here are a few things to consider if you are thinking about living in Portugal:

Climate: Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The temperature in Portugal ranges from around 20°C in the winter to around 30°C in the summer.
Cost of living: The cost of living in Portugal is generally lower compared to other Western European countries, making it an affordable place to live. Housing costs in Portugal vary depending on the location and type of accommodation, but rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can range from €400-800 per month.
Language: Portuguese is the official language of Portugal, but English is widely spoken in the country, particularly in the business and tourism sectors. It may be helpful to have some understanding of Portuguese, as it will make it easier to communicate with locals and integrate into Portuguese society.
Healthcare: Portugal has a universal healthcare system that is available to all residents. Healthcare in Portugal is generally of a high standard, and there are many hospitals and clinics throughout the country.
Transportation: Portugal has an extensive network of public transportation, including buses, trains, and trams. Public transportation is generally reliable and affordable, and it is a convenient way to get around the country.

Overall, living in Portugal can be a wonderful experience for those who are interested in immersing themselves in the country's culture and enjoying its beautiful landscapes.

Some facts About Portugal

Here are some facts about Portugal:

Portugal is a country located in southwestern Europe, bordered by Spain to the north and east and the Atlantic Ocean to the south and west. It also has several island territories, including the Azores and Madeira.
The official language of Portugal is Portuguese.
Portugal has a population of about 10 million people.
The capital of Portugal is Lisbon, which is known for its rich cultural and artistic traditions, as well as its history and architecture.
Portugal has a diverse landscape, which includes mountains, forests, and beaches.
Portugal is a member of the European Union and the NATO alliance.
Portugal is known for its contributions to art and culture, including literature, music, and cinema.
Portugal is also home to many famous landmarks, such as the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belem Tower, and the Sintra National Palace.
Portugal has a long and rich history, with a culture that has been influenced by many different civilizations.
Portugal is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as caldo verde, bacalhau, and pastel de nata. It is also home to many famous wineries and is known for its production of wine.