Quick answer: Our top five destinations for TEFL teachers in 2024 were Japan, Spain, Vietnam, the United Arab Emirates and Colombia – chosen for their blend of job opportunities, cultural experience and quality of life. Each rewards a slightly different profile of teacher, from business English specialists in the UAE to young learner teachers in Spain and Vietnam.
This guide is our snapshot of the TEFL market as we saw it going into 2024. The fundamentals below still hold, but for an evergreen, salary-focused comparison see our guide to the top 5 best-paying TESOL destinations.
As we step into 2024, the demand for English language proficiency continues to rise across the globe, making it an ideal time for TEFL teachers to explore new destinations.
For aspiring English teachers, Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a dynamic and rewarding profession that opens doors to exciting opportunities in different continents.
Where are the best places to be a TEFL teacher in 2024?
Considering factors such as job opportunities, cultural experiences, and overall quality of life, Global English has curated a list of our top 5 destinations for TEFL teachers in 2024:
1. Japan: The Land of the Rising Sun
- Job Market: Japan remains a hotbed for TEFL teachers, with a constant demand for English language instruction. Opportunities range from public schools to private language institutions – including the official JET Programme, which places assistant language teachers in Japanese state schools.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the rich Japanese culture, from traditional tea ceremonies to vibrant city life. Japan offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition.
- Tips for teaching English in Japan:
* the Premier 120-hr TESOL for Asia as a basic qualification
* the 30-hour Teaching Business English for Japan
* for better job prospects, take the Professional 250-hr TESOL
* read our full Japan country guide and the story of a graduate teaching English in Japan
* Read the helpful comments from our former TESOL course graduates who are working in Japan here
2. Spain: Embrace the Spanish Lifestyle
- Job Market: Spain has a high demand for English teachers, particularly in public schools and language academies. The demand is driven by the importance placed on English proficiency for business and travel.
- Cultural Experience: Enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle, delicious cuisine, and the warmth of Spanish hospitality while exploring historic cities like Barcelona and Madrid.
- Tips for teaching English in Spain:
* In a country that values education, a good, accredited TESOL is highly prized
* the TESOL Advanced Course 150 hours for Europe
* the 30-hour Business TESOL for Spain, as Business English is really growing here
* alternatively take the 30-hour Teaching English to Young Learners course if you prefer to work in this popular sector
* see our Spain country guide and our post on teaching English in Spain
3. Vietnam: A Gem in Southeast Asia
- Job Market: Vietnam's growing economy has increased the demand for English teachers. The cost of living is reasonable, and there are opportunities in both urban and rural areas. Check current entry and work-visa guidance on the UK government’s foreign travel advice page for Vietnam.
- Cultural Experience: From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene landscapes of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
- Tips for teaching English in Vietnam:
* the Premier 120-hr TESOL for Asia as a basic qualification
* take the 30-hour Teaching English to Young Learners course if you prefer to work in this sector
* some English language training centers you can find in Vietnam:
EIV Education
Language Link Vietnam
4. United Arab Emirates: Teach in a Global Hub
- Job Market: The UAE continues to attract TEFL teachers with its high-paying jobs in both public and private schools. The demand for English teachers is driven by the country's goal to become a global business and tourism hub. Entry and employment rules are strict – see the gov.uk travel advice for the UAE.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the opulence of cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi while experiencing the unique blend of modernity and tradition
- Tips for teaching English in UAE:
* choose the TESOL Professional 250 hour course for the Middle East
* consider adding a 30-hour Business TESOL as this specialism is very much in demand
* dress for business and present a professional CV/resume
* ask any contacts you have in the UAE to find out about working opportunities
5. Colombia: South America's Rising Star
- Job Market: Colombia is emerging as a popular destination for TEFL teachers, with a growing demand for English language skills. Opportunities exist in both urban and rural settings. Read the gov.uk travel advice for Colombia before you plan your move.
- Cultural Experience: Explore the diverse landscapes, from the Andes Mountains to the Amazon rainforest, while enjoying the lively culture of Colombian cities.
- Tips for teaching English in Colombia:
* the Premier 120-hr TESOL for Latin America as a basic qualification
* the 30-hour Teaching English to Young Learners course as this will be useful
* the 30-hour Business TESOL for Colombia
* Find out more about what Chris Vellacott says on Colombia here: comments
How do the 2024 destinations compare?
| Destination | Stand-out strength | Recommended course |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | Constant demand, structured routes in (including the JET Programme) | Premier 120-hr TESOL, or Professional 250-hr for better prospects |
| Spain | High demand in academies and schools; unbeatable lifestyle | TESOL Advanced 150 hours, plus young learners or business add-on |
| Vietnam | Fast-growing market with a reasonable cost of living | Premier 120-hr TESOL, plus young learners add-on |
| UAE | High-paying jobs in a global business hub | TESOL Professional 250 hours, plus business English add-on |
| Colombia | Emerging market across urban and rural settings | Premier 120-hr TESOL, plus young learners or business add-on |
Wherever you are heading, current vacancies are posted on our TEFL jobs board, and you can explore every destination we cover – well beyond these five – on our all countries page.
Frequently asked questions
What qualifications do I need to teach English abroad?
An accredited TEFL/TESOL certificate of at least 120 hours is the standard requirement across all five destinations, and competitive markets like Japan and the UAE reward the 250-hour Professional course. Adding a 30-hour specialisation – business English for the UAE, young learners for Spain or Vietnam – sharpens your applications.
How much can I earn teaching English in these destinations?
The UAE offered the highest-paying jobs on this list, driven by its push to be a global business hub, while Vietnam pairs modest salaries with a low cost of living. Pay varies widely by employer and city – see our top 5 best-paying TESOL destinations guide for a fuller comparison.
Do I need a degree to teach in these countries?
Requirements differ. Japan and the UAE typically require a degree for a work visa, and programmes like JET are graduate-only. Parts of Latin America are more flexible about degrees, but every country sets its own visa rules – check the official travel advice and embassy guidance for your target country.
Are these still the best TEFL destinations after 2024?
They remain strong choices – the demand drivers behind Japan, Spain, Vietnam, the UAE and Colombia have not gone away. But TEFL markets shift, so treat this as our 2024 snapshot: browse our country guides and jobs board, and compare salaries in our evergreen best-paying destinations guide.
The destinations highlighted above offer a perfect blend of job opportunities, cultural richness, and a high quality of life for TEFL teachers in 2024. When making your decision, consider your preferred teaching environment, cultural interests, and lifestyle preferences. Embark on this exciting journey, and not only will you positively impact your students' lives, but you'll also create lasting memories in some of the world's most captivating places. Explore, educate, and experience the world as a TEFL teacher with Global English.