Introduction – Why 2025 Might Just Be Your Year to Teach Abroad
Let’s be honest – choosing where to teach English abroad can feel like scrolling through Netflix with way too many tabs open. Japan looks incredible. But wait, Vietnam’s got great food and low rent. And then there’s Spain, where even Mondays feel relaxed. How do you choose?
The truth is, teaching abroad is shifting again. Schools are hiring faster than ever, salaries are evolving, and some countries are quietly rising up as new favourites. But more importantly, teachers – you, me, all of us – are thinking differently now. It’s no longer just about chasing the highest paycheck. We want balance. A sense of community. Maybe a country where your rent doesn’t eat up your entire salary. Or one where you can actually breathe on weekends.
So this isn’t one of those “top countries by salary” kind of lists. Instead, we’ve grouped 12 countries into 3 real-world categories that reflect what teachers actually care about:
- The Reliable Giants – Countries that have been teacher favourites for years, and still deliver.
- The Rising Stars – Unexpected places quietly gaining ground for lifestyle, cost of living, or policy changes.
- The Big-Pay Players – Higher salaries, yes – but also higher expectations (and sometimes, higher stress).
Each one has its own personality. Some offer calm mornings and sea breezes. Others buzz with energy, fast trains, and fried street food at midnight. But all 12? Worth a look – especially if this is the year you finally go for it.
Let’s dive in.
Explore the 15 Best Countries to Teach English Abroad
The Reliable Giants
The Rising Stars
The Big-Pay Players
Countries to Keep an Eye On
The Reliable Giants
Tried, tested, and still ticking all the right boxes
Some countries have been favourites among English teachers for years – and honestly, they’ve earned that spot. You’ll hear mixed stories, sure, but what keeps them at the top is a solid mix of structure, support, and real opportunities. These are the places where you’re more likely to get a clear job offer, a real contract, and a sense of what to expect once you land.
They’re not always the cheapest or the most surprising, but if you’re looking for a smoother start – especially if it’s your first time teaching abroad – these are still among the best places to begin (or return to).
1. South Korea – High Pay, High Standards, High-Speed Everything
South Korea has been at the top of the TEFL game for a long time – and it’s not slowing down. Whether you’re teaching in a public school through EPIK or working with a private hagwon, you’ll usually find:
- Competitive salaries (especially for first-time teachers)
- Free housing or housing allowance
- Flight reimbursement and contract completion bonuses
- Access to world-class healthcare and safe, clean cities
What’s changing lately is the shift toward more hybrid opportunities – teachers working in-person while tutoring online on the side. Also, demand is growing outside of Seoul, in smaller cities that offer a slower pace but just as much cultural richness.
Heads up: Hagwons vary widely in workload and expectations. Do your research. Public schools offer more regular hours, but may have a bit less flexibility.
Still, if you want to save money, explore K-culture, and experience life in a hyper-modern country with great food and efficient everything – Korea’s a strong contender.
Further reading: Requirements to Teach English in South Korea
2. Japan – Charm, Culture, and That ‘Once in a Lifetime’ Feeling
Japan’s always had a magnetic pull for English teachers – and that hasn’t changed. Whether it’s the quiet beauty of Kyoto, the buzz of Tokyo, or the simplicity of rural towns, there’s something about living and teaching here that feels… unforgettable.
Most teachers come through programs like JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) or work in private language schools as ALTs (Assistant Language Teachers). In terms of structure and support, Japan still delivers:
- Steady, predictable pay (though not sky-high)
- Public health insurance
- Polite, respectful students
- Clean, well-organised school environments
What has changed recently is the cost-benefit equation. With the Japanese yen currently weaker, foreign teachers are finding it a bit easier on the wallet. Plus, there’s a growing demand in rural areas, where your money stretches further and the cultural immersion is deeper.
Real talk: ALT roles can feel a bit passive for some – lots of observation, not always much speaking. But for others, it’s a stress-free entry into teaching, with space to explore life outside the classroom.
If you’re someone who values order, safety, incredible food, and a deeply respectful culture, Japan might just be the one.
3. Thailand – Laid-Back Living, Lively Classrooms, and a Passport to Paradise
Thailand has long been a go-to for teachers chasing that sweet balance of adventure and affordability. From the lantern-lit streets of Chiang Mai to the island views in Krabi, the lifestyle here feels like one long exhale.
The teaching scene is varied – you’ll find jobs in:
- Government schools (more relaxed, with lots of holidays) (Read on: Requirements to teach English in Thailand)
- Private language centres (evening/weekend work)
- International schools (if you’ve got experience or a teaching licence)
While salaries are on the lower side, the low cost of living keeps things manageable. Rent, food, transport – it’s all surprisingly affordable if you’re not splurging every weekend. And let’s be honest, a plate of pad thai for $1 still beats most staffroom lunches anywhere else.
What’s notable lately is a softening of visa requirements and a growing demand for English teachers outside of Bangkok. More rural and mid-sized towns are hiring – and often come with a slower pace and fewer expats, which some teachers actually prefer.
Heads up: You might need to be flexible with schedules and classroom resources, but the reward is a lifestyle that’s hard to beat – weekend trips to waterfalls, temple visits before class, and a community of friendly locals who’ll wave at you on your walk to school.
Further reading: Thailand Teaching English Guide: Salary, Visa, Jobs
4. Spain – Siestas, Sangria, and Steady Teaching Gigs
Spain has a certain rhythm to it that teachers either fall deeply in love with or take a while to adjust to. The days start slow, lunches last forever, and somehow it all just… works. If you’re looking for that blend of culture, lifestyle, and classroom experience without the burnout, Spain still delivers.
Most teachers find work through:
- Government programmes like Auxiliares de Conversación
- Private language academies (especially in cities like Madrid, Seville, and Valencia)
- Summer camps or Business English gigs
Salaries aren’t sky-high, but they’re usually enough to live decently, especially if you’re sharing a flat or living outside the big city centres. What you gain, though, is time: long weekends, generous holidays, and a work pace that doesn’t eat you alive.
Recent changes have made things even smoother – quicker visa processing, more stable government placements, and an uptick in demand for English in corporate settings, especially in Madrid and Barcelona.
Worth noting: Spain is incredibly regional. Living and teaching in the south (Andalusia) is a very different experience from Catalonia or the Basque Country. And English proficiency levels vary quite a bit too.
But if you’re after sunny afternoons, late-night tapas, and a country that lets you live well and teach meaningfully – Spain is still very much in the game.
Further reading: Guide to Teaching English in Spain: Salary, Jobs & Visa
The Rising Stars
Unexpected gems quietly climbing the TEFL charts
Not every great teaching destination makes headlines – and that’s exactly what makes these next four countries special. They’re the kind of places you might not find in the glossy brochures but keep popping up in real conversations, Reddit threads, and late-night teacher WhatsApp groups.
What they lack in traditional TEFL infrastructure, they make up for with vibrant communities, affordable living, and in many cases, open-minded visa systems and surprisingly decent pay. These countries are picking up steam for a reason – and for teachers willing to step slightly off the usual path, the rewards can be big.
5. Vietnam – Buzzing Streets, Big Pay Potential, and the Friendliest Locals You’ll Meet
Vietnam is no longer a “maybe someday” destination. It’s right here, right now – and it’s quickly becoming a top pick for new and seasoned teachers alike.
You’ll mostly find jobs in:
- Private language centres in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang
- International schools and bilingual programmes (for experienced teachers)
- Some public schools and preschools expanding their English curriculums
What’s pulling teachers in lately?
- Higher pay than many neighbouring countries
- Super low cost of living (rent, food, transport – it’s all doable on a modest budget)
- A huge digital nomad/expat community
- Plenty of freedom to pick up online gigs or private tutoring on the side
The vibe is energetic, colourful, and just a bit chaotic in the best way. You’ll wake up to scooter horns, grab a strong Vietnamese coffee for pennies, and head to work where students are usually eager, cheeky, and endlessly curious.
One thing to know: Most employers prefer to hire teachers already in Vietnam, so it helps to arrive first, network locally, and then land a job. But once you’re in? It’s one of the best places to teach, live well, and save a bit too.
Further reading: Guide to Teaching English in Vietnam: Salary, Jobs & Visa
6. Georgia – Low Cost, Big Heart, and a Passport to the Caucasus
If you’re looking for something completely different – but still practical, affordable, and genuinely welcoming – Georgia might just catch you by surprise. This little country, tucked between Europe and Asia, is gaining serious traction among TEFL teachers who want meaningful work without the big-city overwhelm.
So what’s fuelling the buzz?
- Government-backed programmes are bringing in more native English speakers
- No TEFL? No problem – many schools focus more on your spoken English than paperwork
- Cost of living is refreshingly low – think $250 to $400 for rent in Tbilisi or Batumi
- The visa situation is ridiculously easy – you can stay for a whole year visa-free if you’re from many Western countries
Georgia offers something rare: you can walk into a classroom and actually feel needed. English is expanding fast here, especially in the regions, and students often treat teachers with a kind of curiosity and respect that’s honestly hard to find elsewhere.
The culture? Warm, expressive, a bit chaotic around the edges – and the food is unforgettable. Picture fresh khachapuri, homemade wine, and strangers who turn into friends before the meal ends.
Heads up: Resources in schools can be limited, and infrastructure might not be as polished as in other places – but if you’re flexible, curious, and open to being part of something still growing, Georgia might just steal your heart.
Further reading: Guide to Teaching English in Georgia: Visa, Salary & Jobs
7. Portugal – Coastal Calm, Creative Energy, and an Underrated TEFL Scene
Portugal’s been quietly gaining momentum among English teachers – not with a bang, but with a kind of steady, slow-burn appeal that’s hard to ignore once it’s on your radar.
Teaching jobs here aren’t plastered all over the internet, but they are there – especially if you’re proactive. Lisbon and Porto remain the hotspots, but smaller towns are opening up too. You’ll mostly find roles in:
- Private language institutes
- Summer camps and after-school programmes
- Business English, especially in tech and startup circles
What stands out is the lifestyle. The pace is gentler, the people are open and easy-going, and it’s one of the few places where you might finish work, grab a pastel de nata, and be at the beach before sunset – without rushing. Rent’s still manageable (though rising), and public transport makes getting around surprisingly stress-free.
Lately, there’s been more interest from young professionals wanting to improve their English for work – so the demand for Business English is bubbling up fast. If you’re experienced or just naturally confident with adult learners, this could be your niche.
That said, the TEFL salaries here aren’t going to make you rich – but they’ll cover your basics, especially if you live modestly. And in exchange? You get sunshine, espresso bars on every corner, and a place that feels quietly content in its own skin.
Further reading: Guide to Teaching English in Portugal: Visa, Salary & Jobs
8. Colombia – High Energy, Warm Smiles, and a TEFL Scene on the Rise
Colombia isn’t just colourful – it’s alive in a way that catches you off guard. Streets filled with music, strangers who talk to you like old friends, and students who are often as expressive as they are eager to learn. For English teachers looking for connection, purpose, and just a little adventure – Colombia’s becoming a serious contender.
There’s growing demand in cities like Medellín, Bogotá, and Cali, especially in:
- Private language schools
- Public-private partnership programmes
- NGOs and foundations focused on education access
- Business English, particularly in finance and tourism sectors
What’s changed lately is the increase in safety and stability, especially in teacher-friendly neighbourhoods. The cost of living is still relatively low, and while the salaries aren’t the highest, they do go further than you’d expect – especially outside the capital.
You’ll often find yourself teaching students who are incredibly motivated – many are chasing international opportunities, and English is a major stepping stone. That energy can be contagious, in a good way.
There are a few things to prepare for: some schools may lack resources, and navigating the visa process can be a bit of a dance. Also, having at least basic Spanish helps more than you’d think – not just in the classroom, but when sorting out housing, groceries, or just chatting with your neighbours.
But if you’re someone who thrives in a lively, people-first culture with real classroom engagement and the occasional salsa night thrown in, Colombia offers a kind of teaching experience that sticks with you long after you leave.
Further reading: Guide to Teaching English in Colombia: Visa, Salary & Jobs
The Big-Pay Players
Higher salaries, tougher expectations – but for many, it’s worth the trade
Let’s not sugar-coat it: teaching abroad isn’t always a beachy dream with short hours and iced coffee breaks. Some countries pay well – but they’ll expect a lot in return. Longer hours, stricter dress codes, more demanding parents, or just a faster pace of life.
Still, if you’re hoping to save, pay off debt, or support family back home, these next four countries might be exactly what you’re looking for. They don’t just offer good salaries – they offer serious earning potential. And while they might come with a bit more pressure, many teachers walk away saying it was one of the smartest financial choices they made.
9. United Arab Emirates – Big Pay, Bigger Classrooms, and Plenty of Sun
The UAE, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, has long been a magnet for teachers chasing tax-free salaries and a touch of luxury. And honestly? That appeal hasn’t faded.
Most schools hiring international teachers fall into three buckets:
- Government-run programmes (like ADEC)
- Private international schools
- Premium chain schools and early years centres
Pay here can be significantly higher than in other countries – sometimes double or triple what you’d earn elsewhere. Most contracts include:
- Free accommodation or a generous housing allowance
- Annual flights home
- Full healthcare
- End-of-contract bonus
The student body is usually diverse, and classrooms are tech-equipped and well-resourced. But make no mistake – expectations are high. Parents are involved, admin can be intense, and many schools operate like well-oiled businesses. You’re not just a teacher – you’re part of the school’s brand.
Cultural norms also take adjusting to. Dress codes are more conservative, and while the cities are modern and international, you’re still in a region where local customs shape everyday life.
Still, if you’re organised, patient, and able to deliver results, the UAE offers a rare combo: financial gains, career progression, and a social life that might just surprise you.
Further reading: Guide to Teaching English in UAE: Visa, Salary & Jobs
10. Saudi Arabia – Quiet Days, Generous Packages, and a Very Different Rhythm
Saudi Arabia is not for everyone – but for those who do go, the financial rewards are hard to ignore. Salaries are often among the highest in the region, and the benefits? They’re serious.
Teachers here usually work in:
- Universities and technical colleges
- International schools
- Corporate training centres
What sets Saudi apart is the focus on adult learners, particularly in universities and vocational training. That often means more structured schedules, fewer discipline issues, and a slightly more academic feel to your day.
Most contracts include:
- Tax-free salary
- Free housing or housing allowance
- Flights, health insurance, and yearly bonuses
- Paid holidays that line up with academic calendars
Day-to-day life feels slower, quieter, and sometimes isolating – especially if you’re not based in Riyadh or Jeddah. Social norms are more conservative, and things like alcohol, cinema, and public events only recently became part of everyday life in certain cities.
Still, teachers who stay tend to value the calm. You save a lot. You spend less. And many say the slower pace helps them reset, write, focus on health, or simply get clear on what they want next.
If you’re prepared for a different kind of routine and you’re focused on financial goals, Saudi Arabia might give you more than just a strong paycheck – it might give you space to think.
Further reading: Guide to Teaching English in Saudi Arabia: Visa, Salary & Jobs
11. Kuwait – Small Country, Big Salary, and a Surprisingly Tight-Knit Community
Kuwait tends to fly under the radar, especially when compared to flashier neighbours like the UAE or Qatar. But for English teachers focused on saving money and working in well-resourced schools, it’s quietly become a solid option.
Most teaching roles are in:
- Private international schools following British, American, or IB curricula
- Bilingual schools that blend English with Arabic instruction
- A handful of universities and training institutes
What keeps teachers coming here?
- Tax-free income
- Full accommodation or housing stipend
- Return flights and annual bonuses
- Smaller class sizes in many schools
The lifestyle is more subdued. Alcohol is banned, nightlife is limited, and public life leans conservative. That said, the expat teacher community is strong, and many teachers find themselves forming close circles quickly. There’s a rhythm to life here – work, gym, walks by the Gulf, weekend house gatherings – that can feel oddly grounding.
It’s not the place to go if you’re craving street festivals or late-night city life, but if your priorities lean toward structure, savings, and space to focus, Kuwait has a lot to offer – without the burnout that sometimes comes with bigger cities.
12. Qatar – Polished Schools, Premium Pay, and a Work-Life Balance That (Mostly) Works
Qatar has been investing heavily in education for years now – and it shows. The schools are modern, well-funded, and often linked to international education groups. For teachers looking to earn well without totally giving up weekends or evenings, this one’s worth looking into.
You’ll mostly find roles in:
- British and American curriculum schools
- International kindergartens
- Private education groups that run multiple campuses
What’s appealing right away is the pay and package. Salaries tend to be on the higher end, and contracts usually include:
- Fully covered or subsidised housing
- Flights, health insurance, and transport allowance
- Paid holidays that line up with school terms
Classrooms are well-equipped, admin tends to be structured, and expectations – while high – are usually reasonable. Teachers here often describe the workload as full, but not overwhelming. It’s busy, but there’s still time for gym sessions, coffee runs, or catching up with friends after school.
Do note: life in Doha can feel polished but expensive. Groceries, transport, even café meals can add up fast – especially if you’re used to lower-cost countries. That said, many teachers still manage to save a fair chunk, especially those who keep things simple.
Qatar doesn’t shout like Dubai or feel as quiet as Kuwait. It’s somewhere in the middle. For many, that balance is exactly what they’re after.
Further reading: Guide to Teaching English in Qatar: Visa, Salary & Jobs
Countries to Keep an Eye On
A few countries may not be dominating the TEFL conversation just yet – but things are shifting. Policy changes, growing demand, and grassroots teacher networks are quietly putting these places on the map.
- Taiwan – With more government support and a stable demand for native English teachers, Taiwan offers structure, safety, and a lifestyle many teachers come to love.
- Hungary – EU programmes and rising English proficiency targets are slowly opening more doors in both cities and rural areas.
- Poland – A solid choice for EU passport holders, especially in business and tech sectors where English is becoming a must-have.
What Teachers Are Prioritising Now
It’s not just about the money anymore. Not really. Sure, salary still matters – but these days, most teachers are thinking a little deeper about where they go and why.
Here’s what keeps coming up in conversations:
- Work-life balance – Teachers are picking destinations where the job doesn’t spill into every corner of their life.
- Mental health – A calm neighbourhood, supportive school culture, fewer Sunday scaries – these things matter more than they used to.
- Community – Whether it’s expat circles, friendly locals, or a gym that feels like home, people want to feel connected, not just employed.
- Stability – Political safety, reliable contracts, and knowing your visa won’t fall through mid-semester.
- Space for something more – Some teachers are using their free time to study, start businesses, freelance, or build an online presence. It’s not just about the classroom anymore.
A lot of teachers are quietly building portfolio careers – a school job for stability, online tutoring on the side, maybe some travel writing or content creation to keep things interesting. The profession’s evolving, and teachers are finding ways to evolve with it.
Final Thoughts – What’s the Best Country to Teach In? It Depends on You
There’s no single “best country” to teach English. Never has been. What works for one person might completely wear someone else out.
Some folks thrive in fast cities with bright lights and packed schedules. Others crave stillness, routine, and a view of the mountains from the school gate. The point is – you don’t need to follow someone else’s dream.
Ask yourself what really matters right now. Is it saving money? Slowing down? Building a career? Learning a new language? Or just getting unstuck?
There’s a country out there that fits – and honestly, the perfect pick might not look perfect on paper. That’s okay. Most teachers don’t land in the “ideal” place first try. But they learn, they adjust, and often they stay longer than they planned.
Because it’s not just about teaching English. It’s about living somewhere new and seeing where that takes you.
Thinking About Your Next Step?
Whether you’re brand new to teaching or ready for your second (or fifth) country, it’s a good moment to start planning. Look into courses. Join a few teacher forums. Reach out to someone who’s already teaching in a place you’re curious about.
And if you’re not TEFL-certified yet or wondering which country fits your goals – just ask. We’ve got plenty of guides, stories, and real talk to help you figure things out.
Because honestly? You might be one decision away from the most interesting year of your life.
This article was originally published in Jul-2018 and was last updated in Jul-2025.
Author: Kate Gosnell
