Start main page content

Country Guides

Most EFL positions are for teaching General English – especially for children. Business English and exam classes are also quite popular, but typically require more teaching experience and/or specialisation. A corporate background is a huge advantage when looking at specialised English lessons such as English for Law, English for Medicine, English for Aviation, etc.

Our overview of the countries is divided by continent and features the most popular locations. However, most countries have an EFL industry regardless of its size.

We’ve included information on the following to provide a snapshot of your options: 

Country Guide Codes

Disclaimer: While Wits Language School endeavours to provide accurate and detailed information, this guide is intended to serve as an overview. Exceptions may apply to some jobs. Wits Language School, and the University of the Witwatersrand, are not responsible for any inaccuracies related to salaries and requirements indicated here as this information changes frequently

Asia

The biggest job market for EFL teachers is in Asia and Southeast Asia. English is a mandatory subject at school level in many of these countries as they compete in the world’s economic, industrial and tourist industries. As a result, salaries are also fairly competitive across countries. Keep in mind that lower salaries are paid in countries like Cambodia and Laos, for example, where the cost of living is also significantly lower.

Consider a job in Asia or Southeast Asia if you want to:

  • find a job at almost any time of the year.
  • secure a job before arriving in the country.
  • receive benefits like accommodation, medical aid, flights, visa assistance, etc.
  • teach children (although there are opportunities to teach adults).
  • save money.
  • travel to many cheaper countries nearby.

Asia Country Guide

Europe

Home to the EFL industry, Europe has emphasised learning English since the founding of the EU in 1993. It’s a common language for local business, tourism and education, with most children learning English at school as part of their curriculum. If you have an EU passport, the continent is your oyster as you won’t need a work visa. If not, there are still opportunities for non-EU citizens but each country has its own visa and hiring rules for these positions.

Consider a job in Europe if you want to:

  • teach adults (although there are opportunities to teach children).
  • start a job in January or September.
  • interview with potential employers face-to-face once in the country.
  • live a comfortable lifestyle and break even.

Europe Country Guide

Middle East and North Africa

From the Persian Gulf to the Eastern Mediterranean and Northern tip of Africa, there’s an enormous range of jobs. Considering the wealth held by these oil-rich nations, salaries in this part of the world are among the highest – but so are the job requirements! This region can afford to be picky though, so the job market is extremely competitive and usually requires advanced teaching qualifications.

Consider a job in the Middle East or North Africa if you want to:
? find a job at almost any time of the year.
? secure a job before arriving in the country.
? receive benefits like accommodation, medical aid, flights, visa assistance, etc.
? save money.

Middle East Country Guide

South America

This continent is a mixed bag of opportunities – all of which offer incredible cultural experiences that are unmatched elsewhere in the world. There’s been a rapid growth in the tourism industry over the past decade or two, combined with constantly rising living standards. As a result, many countries have an ever increasing need for English. Jobs in this region are more about the experience than saving money.

Consider a job in South America if you want to:

  • teach adults rather than children.
  • start a job in January/February or July/August.
  • interview with potential employers face-to-face once in the country.
  • teach in a country that doesn’t necessarily require a degree.
  • live a comfortable lifestyle and break even.

South America Country Guides

Share