How do I get a job teaching English in Vietnam?
Securing a job teaching English in Vietnam, a rapidly growing destination in Southeast Asia for ESL teachers, involves several key steps. To successfully find a teaching position in Vietnam, consider the following approach:
- Obtain Relevant Qualifications: A TESOL certification is typically required. A degree can also be beneficial, as many schools prefer or require it.
- Research the Job Market: Understand the different teaching opportunities available, from public schools to private language centers and international schools. Each setting offers unique experiences and requirements.
- Prepare Application Materials: Have a well-crafted resume or CV tailored to ESL teaching, along with a professional cover letter.
- Utilize Online Job Platforms: Websites like TEFL.com and Dave's ESL Cafe list teaching jobs in Vietnam, offering a range of opportunities.
- Network: Connect with other teachers in Vietnam or join forums and social media groups dedicated to teaching in Vietnam for insights and potential job leads.
- Consider In-Country Job Searching: Many schools prefer to interview candidates who are already in Vietnam. Arriving on a tourist visa to search for jobs can be a viable strategy, as long as you adhere to the legal process of switching to a work visa upon employment.
Table of Contents
What are the requirements for teaching English in Vietnam?
Who are the main employers of English teachers in Vietnam?
What are the visa requirements for teaching English in Vietnam?
What is the best way to apply for English teaching jobs in Vietnam?
When is the best time to apply for English teaching Jobs in Vietnam?
What are the requirements for teaching English in Vietnam?
To teach English in Vietnam, there are specific requirements that must be met, particularly for obtaining an official work permit. The fundamental criteria include:
- Native English Speaker: Vietnam typically restricts official work permits for teaching to native English speakers.
- Bachelor's Degree: Possessing a bachelor's degree is a mandatory requirement for a work visa.
- TESOL Certification: A TESOL certificate, preferably with a minimum of 120-hours duration, is commonly required by employers.
- Classroom Experience: While not always a requirement, previous classroom teaching experience can be advantageous, particularly for higher-paying positions.
Who are the main employers of English teachers in Vietnam?
In Vietnam, the primary employers of foreign English teachers are private language schools. These institutions are particularly concentrated in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. They offer general English classes for both adults and young learners, and some specialize in areas such as test preparation, Business English, or English for Tourism. Apart from private language schools, English-medium universities and public schools also employ English teachers. These positions are typically suited for teachers with prior teaching experience and often face high competition due to their limited availability.
Another common employment avenue in Vietnam is private tutoring. Many teachers choose to supplement their income by offering private English lessons. This can be particularly lucrative and offers flexibility, making it a popular choice for teachers looking to complement their main job's salary.
What are the visa requirements for teaching English in Vietnam?
You might well be told by some schools in Vietnam that it is OK to teach with only a tourist visa in your passport. The truth is that this is completely illegal and could leave you vulnerable to fines or deportation. In order to work legally in any school you need to be in possession of a business visa and a work permit. Your employer should offer to arrange these for you at the interview stage of the recruitment process. As most jobs are filled from within the country, it is common practice to arrive in Vietnam on a tourist visa and then apply for the necessary visa and work permit once you have been offered a job.
What is the best way to apply for English teaching jobs in Vietnam?
Securing an English teaching job in Vietnam typically involves a direct and immersive approach. The most common and effective method is to travel to Vietnam and commence your job search in person. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the local environment, visit various schools, and assess different opportunities before signing a contract. When undertaking this approach, it is important to bring all necessary documents with you. These include your TESOL certificate, university diploma, and a criminal background check, as they are often prerequisites for employment.
When is the best time to apply for English teaching Jobs in Vietnam?
For those seeking English teaching positions in Vietnam, understanding the hiring timeline is crucial for maximizing job opportunities. In Vietnam, private language schools, which form a significant part of the ESL job market, do not adhere to a strict semester system. Consequently, they recruit teachers throughout the year, offering flexibility in terms of when to apply. This continuous recruitment cycle means that opportunities can arise at any time, making it feasible to apply year-round.
For those interested in teaching at public schools or universities, the hiring schedule is more structured. The academic year in these institutions typically begins in August or September. Therefore, the ideal time to start applying for these positions is about three months prior to the start of the school year, around May or June. This lead time is important as it allows for the completion of the application process and any necessary preparations.
