To secure a job teaching English in Vietnam, follow these steps:
- Start with research: Familiarize yourself with Vietnam's teaching market and requirements.
- Enroll in a recognized TEFL course: A certification is essential for most reputable schools.
- Ready your CV and gather necessary documents: Ensure you have all pertinent certifications and references.
- Begin your job hunt: Apply to schools or teaching programs directly or through job platforms.
- Attend interviews, either in-person or online.
- Once offered a position, review and sign your contract.
- Coordinate with your employer for visa arrangements.
- Arrive in Vietnam and embark on your teaching journey!
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?
Teaching English in Vietnam comes with specific requirements to adhere to the country's regulations. Aspiring teachers must possess a bachelor's degree, regardless of the major. Being a native English speaker is often a prerequisite, but non-natives can also qualify by demonstrating English proficiency, such as presenting an IELTS certificate. A TEFL certificate with a minimum of 120-hours of coursework is a common demand among employers. Although certain high-paying positions may prioritize applicants with prior classroom experience, many schools are open to hiring passionate and well-presented individuals, especially if they have a compelling CV and perform well during interviews.
Who are the main employers of English teachers in Vietnam?
The majority of teachers in Vietnam are employed by private language schools. There are hundreds of these all over the country, with the largest number in the two biggest cities, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Some provide general English classes for adults or young learners, while some also offer English for Specific Purposes (ESP) courses, such as test preparation, Business English, and English for Tourism. There are a smaller number of jobs in English-medium universities and public schools, although previous experience is usually required for these positions. Private tutoring is also common. Some teachers are able to amass enough students to make it a full-time job, but in most cases teachers private tutor a small number of students to top up the salary earned from their main job.
What are the visa requirements for teaching English in Vietnam?
To legally teach English in Vietnam, you will need more than just a tourist visa, despite what some schools might suggest. Working on a tourist visa can lead to penalties, including fines and deportation. The proper procedure involves securing a business visa and a work permit, typically facilitated by your hiring school. While some teachers secure positions and complete paperwork before arriving in Vietnam, many come on a tourist visa, find a job, and then transition to the appropriate business visa and work permit with the assistance of their employer.
What is the best way to apply for English teaching jobs in Vietnam?
If you are considering teaching English in Vietnam, the recommended approach is to first enter the country on a tourist visa. This strategy gives you the advantage of experiencing various parts of the country and choosing a location that resonates with you. Meeting potential employers in person can often be more fruitful than remote communications. Essential to this plan is ensuring you bring all required documents - your TEFL certificate, university diploma, and a criminal background check. It is prudent to consult with an embassy or consulate before departure, ensuring you are updated on the latest visa requirements and protocols.
When is the best time to apply for English teaching Jobs in Vietnam?
If you are aiming to teach English in Vietnam, timing your job application can be crucial. While private language schools hire year-round due to their flexible schedules, a face-to-face interview is often preferred over remote ones. On the other hand, public schools and universities, which commence their academic year in August or September, generally start their recruitment process about three months in advance. However, given the dynamic nature of job vacancies, it is beneficial to consistently monitor job boards, forums, and educational institution websites for unexpected opportunities.
