To secure an English teaching job in Brazil, obtaining a TEFL certification is paramount. Prior professional teaching experience isn't generally a prerequisite. Brazil offers a multitude of opportunities due to its vast population and booming economy. In-person interviews are common, so it's beneficial to be in Brazil during the job search. The country's diverse culture, inviting climate, and iconic festivities like Carnival make it a top destination for many international teachers.
Table of Contents
What are the requirements for teaching English in Brazil?
What are the visa requirements for teaching English in Brazil?
Should I work on a tourist visa in Brazil?
What is the best way to apply for English teaching jobs in Brazil?
What are the requirements for teaching English in Brazil?
To teach English in Brazil, the following qualifications and attributes are often sought by employers:
- TEFL certification from a reputable course provider, ideally at least 120 hours.
- A bachelor's degree, while not essential, can bolster job prospects.
- Being a native English speaker or having native-level fluency is an advantage.
- Knowledge of Portuguese can be beneficial, but not essential.
- Classroom experience can be a plus, particularly for higher-paying positions.
Also read: How much can I earn teaching English in Brazil?
What are the visa requirements for teaching English in Brazil?
To teach English in Brazil, the most common approach is to apply for a 90-day tourist visa through the Brazilian Consulate in your home country before arrival. After arriving in Brazil, this tourist visa can be extended for an additional 90 days. Many private language schools, which are the primary employers for English teachers in Brazil, hire on the basis of these tourist visas alone due to the complexities and expenses associated with securing a work visa. Those seeking official work visas, which necessitate school sponsorship, typically find these positions within the public school system.
Also read: Where can I get a digital nomad visa for teaching English online?
Should I work on a tourist visa in Brazil?
Working in Brazil on a tourist visa is not recommended. In 2017, Brazil tightened immigration regulations, increasing penalties for both employers hiring without proper work permits and employees working without them. While some continue this practice, both parties risk significant financial repercussions if caught. It is worth noting that although teaching on a tourist visa might be a widespread practice in various countries, the risks in Brazil have heightened.
What is the best way to apply for English teaching jobs in Brazil?
For those looking to teach English in Brazil, it is often advantageous to secure a job online before departure, as these often come with a work visa. This method, however, represents only a minority of the available positions. Many other teaching roles in Brazil involve in-person interviews and these may not offer work visas. Due to the small number of internationally advertised positions, many teachers travel to Brazil and seek jobs once there. Cities such as Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Recife, and Brasilia are among the top destinations.
Also read: What are the most common concerns for first time TEFL teachers?
