How do I get a job teaching English in the Czech Republic?
Securing a job teaching English in the Czech Republic involves understanding the market and meeting the country's specific requirements. Here is how to approach the job search:
- Job Market Research: Look into the job market, focusing on areas where the demand for English teachers is high. Major cities like Prague often have numerous teaching opportunities.
- Application Process: Start applying for positions in language schools, international schools, and private institutions. Utilize online job portals and networking to find available positions.
- Prepare for Interviews: Be ready for interviews, which might be conducted online or in person, depending on the employer's location and preference.
- Understand Visa Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the visa and work permit process in the Czech Republic to ensure legal employment.
By following these steps, and with the high demand for English teachers in the Czech Republic, finding a suitable teaching position should be a feasible goal for most TESOL course graduates.
Table of Contents
What are the requirements for teaching English in the Czech Republic?
What are the visa requirements for teaching English in the Czech Republic?
What is the best way to apply for English teaching jobs in the Czech Republic?
What are the requirements for teaching English in the Czech Republic?
For those aiming to teach English in the Czech Republic, a country known for its demand in the ESL field, it is important to meet specific criteria to qualify for most teaching positions. Here are the key requirements:
- TESOL Certification: A TESOL certificate is considered essential by the majority of employers in the Czech Republic. This qualification equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge for classroom teaching.
- Educational Background: Most teaching positions require candidates to have a full degree in any subject. This requirement is standard for teaching roles in the country.
- Language Proficiency: Native-level English proficiency is usually expected. Non-native English speakers often face more challenges in securing positions and may benefit from applying through recruitment agencies.
- Criminal Background Check: A clean criminal record is a common requirement. Candidates typically need to provide a criminal background check from their home country.
- Legal Documentation: Ensure all your legal documents, including visas and work permits, are in order as per Czech Republic regulations.
Meeting these requirements positions you well for securing an English teaching job in the Czech Republic, a destination that combines cultural richness with a strong market for ESL teachers.
Also read: How much can I earn teaching English in the Czech Republic?
Check out the ITTT in-class TESOL course in Prague
What are the visa requirements for teaching English in the Czech Republic?
For ESL teachers looking to work in the Czech Republic, understanding the visa requirements is essential. Here is a breakdown of the process:
- Work Permit Complexity: Obtaining a work permit in the Czech Republic can be challenging as it requires school sponsorship, which is often a costly and time-consuming process for employers. If you secure a sponsor, you will need your university diploma apostilled and translated into Czech, with a fee of around $100.
- Alternative Route with Zivnostensky List (Zivno): Most ESL teachers enter the Czech Republic on a 90-day tourist visa and then apply for a Zivno, a business license that allows you to work for multiple schools.
- Application Process for Zivno: The Zivno application can be made in person at a government office or through a local visa agency. Required documents include a completed application form, a bank statement showing access to at least $8,000 US, a housing contract for long-term residency, a one-year health insurance policy (available for purchase in the country), and a criminal background check.
- Processing Time: The processing time for a Zivno application can be up to three months. If your tourist visa expires while waiting, you remain legally in the country as your Zivno application is under process.
Navigating the visa requirements, including the option of the Zivno for more flexibility, is a crucial step for legally teaching English in the Czech Republic.
What is the best way to apply for English teaching jobs in the Czech Republic?
Many ESL teaching jobs can be found advertised online which means you can complete the application process before leaving home. If you are able to secure a job via this route you will probably find your employer will be happy to help you make arrangements for a work or Zivno visa and they might even provide assistance with finding accommodation. If you are unable to find the job you want online it is common practice for teachers to fly into the country and apply for jobs on the ground. There are many language schools in Prague, which is the most popular location for teachers, although smaller cities such as Brno, Ostrava, and Plzen are also well worth checking out.
Also read: Where do schools interview and hire English teachers in advance?
