Can I get a work visa to teach English in Vietnam?
Obtaining a work visa to teach English in Vietnam is typically a straightforward process, aligning with the country's emergence as a popular TESOL destination. The process typically involves securing a job offer from a school or language institution in Vietnam, which then assists in the visa application process. Required documents usually include a valid passport, a health check, a criminal background check, and your TESOL certification.
Table of Contents
Who is eligible to legally teach English in Vietnam?
What are the requirements for teaching English in Vietnam?
What visa will I need to teach English in Vietnam?
Who is eligible to legally teach English in Vietnam?
The eligibility criteria to legally teach English in Vietnam have become more stringent, reflecting a commitment to higher educational standards. To work as an English teacher in Vietnam, it is essential to have a university degree. This requirement is in line with the government's and individual schools' emphasis on professional qualifications. Additionally, a recognized teaching certification, such as a TESOL, is typically required. While native English speakers are often preferred, non-native speakers with strong English skills and a teaching qualification are also considered. This evolution in requirements ensures that students in Vietnam receive quality English education from well-trained teachers, and it is a positive step towards maintaining high teaching standards in the country.
For information on salaries take a look at our post: How much can I earn teaching English in Vietnam.
What are the requirements for teaching English in Vietnam?
The requirements for teaching English in Vietnam include:
- A university degree: It is now a legal requirement to have a degree if you want to get hired as an ESL teacher in Vietnam. Some schools might insist on it being in the field of education or the English language, however, most will be happy with a 4-year degree in any subject.
- TESOL certificate: Although it is not a legal requirement, the majority of schools across the country will expect their job applicants to have completed a reputable TESOL certification course.
- Native English speaker: Once again, this is not an official requirement, but many schools will only hire native English speakers with a passport from certain countries such as the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
- A valid passport: Your passport needs to be valid for a minimum of six months from the date you expect to start teaching. However, it is highly recommended that you have over a year left on your passport to avoid having to renew it while overseas.
- Criminal background check: This needs to be from your home country or country of residence and has to be less than three years old.
- Teaching experience: Most schools have no requirement in this area, although it can be required when applying for more professional schools that offer better deals to their staff and better levels of teaching for their students.
What visa will I need to teach English in Vietnam?
To legally teach English in Vietnam, the appropriate visa and work permit are essential, as working on a tourist visa is illegal and poses risks of exploitation and legal issues. The legal pathway involves initially obtaining a business visa, followed by a work permit. The process varies depending on whether you secure a teaching job before or after arriving in Vietnam.
If you secure a job before arriving, your employer will assist with the application for a 3-month business visa, which allows you to enter Vietnam. Once in the country, your employer will then apply for your work permit. It is common to begin teaching while the work permit application is being processed.
Alternatively, if you decide to find a job after arriving in Vietnam, you will initially enter on a 30-day tourist visa. This short duration may not provide enough time to secure a job and transition to a business visa. In such cases, teachers often leave Vietnam temporarily and re-enter on a new tourist visa, a common practice that does not impact job prospects. This method allows for visiting schools and meeting potential employers in person before committing to a position. However, it is important to be aware of the need for a business visa to legally work and the necessity of leaving the country to obtain it if arriving on a tourist visa.
