English teachers in Portugal can expect to make from $1,000 to $1,800 monthly, depending on the institution and their qualifications. Portugal, known for its warm climate, affordable living costs, and relaxed lifestyle, offers a favorable environment for TEFL professionals looking to teach in Europe. The country's TEFL market, while not as widely known as some others in the region, provides ample opportunities in both public and private education sectors, from bustling cities like Lisbon and Porto to the scenic Algarve region.
Table of Contents
What are TEFL salaries in Portugal?
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Portugal?
What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Portugal?
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Portugal?
What are TEFL salaries in Portugal?
In Portugal, teachers with TEFL certification typically earn between $1,000 and $1,800 USD monthly when employed by private language centers. Additionally, many teachers supplement their main income through private tutoring, which can yield $11 to $22 per hour. Group sessions can further increase earnings, as fees are shared among the students. This combination of institutional and private teaching allows for a balanced income in a country known for its favorable living conditions and cultural richness.
Also read: How do I get a job teaching English in Portugal?
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Portugal?
The primary employers of English language teachers in Portugal are private language schools. These institutions are the most likely to hire non-EU teachers, despite the bureaucratic challenges associated with obtaining work permits. Once legally permitted to work, teachers often find positions in these schools or expand their income with private tutoring. Establishing a regular clientele in private tutoring can eventually lead to a full-time occupation. Large language school chains and international schools also offer opportunities, with some specifically seeking to hire certified TEFL teachers.
What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Portugal?
The process for non-EU citizens to become English teachers in Portugal involves navigating complex work permit procedures. A more accessible route may be obtaining a student visa, which permits part-time work and can be acquired through a Portuguese embassy or consulate with a processing time of one to three months. Prospective teachers should plan to arrive in Portugal during peak hiring times in September or January and conduct in-person job searches, particularly in Lisbon and Porto where the demand is highest. Direct applications to language schools can be more effective than online job postings, and smaller cities like Coimbra and Braga also present viable teaching opportunities.
Also read: Can I teach English abroad in my gap year?
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Portugal?
In Portugal, the cost of living for English teachers varies by location. Urban centers like Lisbon and Porto offer higher salaries but also come with increased living expenses. On average, teachers can expect to spend $1,300 to $1,700 monthly on essentials such as rent, food, and transport. To comfortably navigate the initial period before receiving a salary, new arrivals should ideally have a savings cushion of $2,000 to $3,000. This should adequately cover start-up costs including accommodation deposits and other necessities.
Also read: What is the Schengen Area in Europe and how does it affect TEFL teachers?
