How do I get a job teaching English in Peru?
Securing a job teaching English in Peru involves understanding the country's market and meeting specific qualifications. To successfully find a teaching position in Peru, here are the key steps:
- TESOL Certification: A TESOL certification is crucial for teaching English in Peru, as it is a basic requirement for most teaching positions.
- Language Proficiency: Native English proficiency is typically expected for TESOL jobs in the country.
- Educational Qualifications: While a 4-year college degree is preferred, it is not a strict requirement for teaching English in Peru.
- Job Search: Look for job opportunities in language schools, private institutions, and through online job portals. Networking and local contacts can also be valuable in finding teaching positions.
Table of Contents
What are the requirements for teaching English in Peru?
What are the visa requirements for teaching English in Peru?
What TESOL course is best for teaching English in Peru?
What is the best way to apply for English teaching jobs in Peru?
What are the requirements for teaching English in Peru?
For those interested in teaching English in Peru, meeting the following requirements is key to becoming eligible for most ESL jobs in the country:
- TESOL Certification: An internationally recognized TESOL certificate, typically with a minimum duration of 120 hours, is essential for teaching positions in Peru.
- Language Proficiency: While some employers may prefer native English speakers, this is not a universal requirement across all schools and language institutes.
- Educational Background: A university degree is preferred by a select number of employers, but it is not a mandatory requirement for most teaching jobs in Peru.
- Teaching Experience: Previous teaching experience can be beneficial, but it is not typically necessary, making Peru a viable option for first-time teachers seeking to gain classroom experience.
Given that the demand for English teachers in Peru often exceeds the supply of qualified applicants, the country presents a favorable opportunity for individuals looking to start their teaching careers in ESL.
Also read: Should I take a TESOL course online or in a classroom?
What are the visa requirements for teaching English in Peru?
The visa requirements for teaching English in Peru typically involve using a tourist visa due to the complexities associated with obtaining an official work permit. Here are the key points to consider:
- Initial Entry: Upon arrival in Peru, English teachers usually enter the country on a standard 90-day tourist visa.
- Visa Extension: This tourist visa can often be extended for an additional 90 days, allowing teachers to legally stay in the country for up to 180 days in total.
- Visa Renewal Process: After the expiration of the extended tourist visa, teachers commonly exit and re-enter Peru to obtain a new 90-day tourist visa. This border crossing process is a widely practiced method for prolonging a stay in Peru.
- Legal Considerations: While this approach is common, it is important to be aware of the legal implications and stay informed about any changes in Peruvian visa policies.
What TESOL course is best for teaching English in Peru?
Most employers will insist on you having completed a minimum of a 120-hour TESOL course with a reputable company such as ITTT. Our 120-hour TESOL certification course provides all the theory of teaching required by new teachers and you can even add some additional practical training that can be completed in the location of your choice.
Also read: How should I approach my first day in an ESL classroom?
While our online course is a good option for many people, we also provide a very popular in-class TESOL course that offers the most comprehensive preparation possible for teaching English abroad. Many trainees feel that being taught in-person by highly qualified and experienced teachers is the best way to start their teaching career. The good news is that we have an in-class TESOL training center located in Cusco, which is known as the Historical Capital of Peru. With this option you get to spend four weeks acclimatizing to the local environment before starting work in your first teaching job. The extensive local knowledge of our training staff in Cusco will also be a bonus when it comes to finding a suitable job in the immediate area or elsewhere around the country.
Check out our in-class TESOL training center in Cusco, Peru.
What is the best way to apply for English teaching jobs in Peru?
The best way to apply for English teaching jobs in Peru typically involves a combination of pre-arrival research and in-country job hunting. Since many language schools in Peru tend to be small and do not advertise internationally, it is advisable to begin by identifying and contacting potential schools via email from your home country. This initial outreach should aim to express interest and set up possible interviews or meetings for when you arrive in Peru.
Once in the country, an on-the-ground approach is often more effective. Visiting schools in person can significantly enhance your chances of finding a job. The job market is particularly concentrated in Lima, the capital city, which offers a wide array of opportunities due to its large population. However, if you are looking for a less hectic environment, smaller towns and cities in Peru also offer teaching positions, albeit in a more limited capacity. The demand for TESOL qualified teachers in Peru is generally high, and most teachers find suitable positions within a week or two of arriving, provided they are proactive in their search.
Also Read: How does the lifetime job support service work?
