Quick answer: The top 10 TEFL destinations, as voted by hundreds of would-be teachers we polled at the London Language Show and Guardian graduate fair, were: Thailand, Japan, China, France, Spain, Italy, Mexico, the UK, Germany and Peru. The Far East dominated for job prospects, Europe for lifestyle, and Latin America for flexibility – you can often teach there without a degree.
Top 10 TEFL destinations
If you were at the Language show or the Guardian graduate fair, both in London in October, then thank you as you may have unwittingly contributed to our Top TEFL destinations poll.
We spoke to hundreds of potential TEFLers at both shows who were interested in living and teaching overseas and while I can’t say the results are exactly scientific, they revealed these as their top 10 TEFL destinations by area.
Which region came out on top?
The Far East
The Far East is still a huge draw. Perhaps this is not surprising as these countries seem to be weathering the economic crisis better than the West. Certainly with a degree and TEFL certificate, there are good TEFL prospects in the region. The best of them are probably in Korea, a country not mentioned on the list – but such is the demand here that you can expect very good packages which may include flights, accommodation and a very decent salary. If a structured route into Asia appeals, the big official schemes are worth knowing about: Japan recruits assistant language teachers through the JET Programme, and South Korea places teachers in state schools through EPIK (English Program in Korea).
China is the hottest TEFL destination in terms of demand with Thailand proving to be a tougher job market than you might expect due to regulation stiffer competition for jobs than elsewhere in the region.
It is tough in the UK outside of the busy summer months but creative TEFLers can still make it work year-round. The best course for Asia is the 120 hour TESOL Premier course.
Europe
This has always been popular and the good news is there are still plenty of opportunities in our top 3 European destinations. The key here is to be in the country if you can and come with a little extra to help you stand out from the crowd. Consider adding a 30 hour specialisation in something like business (big in France and Germany) young learners (good for Spain) or 1-1 (anywhere where you would consider picking up some freelance work.) The best course for Europe is the 150 hour TESOL Premier Plus course.
The Americas
I did think the Americas would make more of an impact on our poll with only Mexico showing 7th and Peru 10th. There is a big demand in this region and with the exception of Brazil, it is generally possible to pick up work without a degree.
What are the top 10 TEFL destinations by country?
Here is the full top 10 as chosen by you, with links to our country guides so you can dig into visas, job markets and graduate comments for each one:
| Rank | Destination | Why teachers chose it |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thailand | Lifestyle, low living costs and year-round demand – though the job market is more regulated than many expect |
| 2 | Japan | Established market with structured routes in, including the JET Programme |
| 3 | China | The biggest demand for teachers of any country in the region |
| 4 | France | Strong business English market, especially with a specialisation |
| 5 | Spain | Big demand for young learner teachers and a famously sociable lifestyle |
| 6 | Italy | Perennial favourite for culture, food and private language school work |
| 7 | Mexico | Growing demand and possible to find work without a degree |
| 8 | UK | Busy summer school season; harder year-round but workable for creative teachers |
| 9 | Germany | Business English is big here – a 30-hour business specialisation helps |
| 10 | Peru | An adventurous choice with demand for teachers and flexible entry requirements |
How did we choose these top 10 TEFL destinations?
No expert panel, no affiliate deals – just you. We simply asked the people planning the move where they actually wanted to teach, ticked off the answers and counted them up. That makes this list less a ranking of job markets and more an honest snapshot of TEFL dreams: the countries that made hundreds of graduates and career-changers stop at our stand and start asking about visas.
Does this top 10 still hold up today?
This poll captures a moment in time – and it is striking how well the list has aged. Thailand, Japan, China, France and Spain remain among the most searched-for TEFL destinations year after year. That said, the map keeps shifting: Vietnam and the Middle East have grown enormously since we ran this poll, and South Korea’s packages continue to impress. For a more recent snapshot, see our top TEFL destinations for 2024, or compare earning potential in our guide to the top 5 best-paying TESOL destinations. You can also browse every country we cover on our all countries page.
So where do you want to go?
With the recession biting, we spoke to many graduates and life-changers alike keen to make the break. Our advice to everyone wherever they opt to go is check out the latest job prospects at TEFL.com and on our own TEFL jobs board, do your research on visa regulations, choose an accredited TESOL course and start planning your new life abroad.
Frequently asked questions
What qualifications do I need to teach English abroad?
Most employers in the destinations on this list ask for an accredited TEFL/TESOL certificate of at least 120 hours, and many countries in Asia also require a degree for a work permit. In Europe, adding a 30-hour specialisation such as business English or young learners helps you stand out from the crowd.
How much can I earn teaching English abroad?
It varies hugely by country and employer. The strongest packages in this list’s region were in South Korea, where high demand means offers can include flights, accommodation and a very decent salary. For a country-by-country comparison of earning potential, see our guide to the top 5 best-paying TESOL destinations.
Do I need a degree to teach English abroad?
It depends on the region. Most Far East destinations, including Thailand, require a degree for a legal work permit. In Latin America, with the exception of Brazil, it is generally possible to pick up teaching work without a degree, which is why Mexico and Peru appeal to non-graduates.
Which TEFL destination is best for first-time teachers?
Go where demand outstrips supply. China and South Korea offer plentiful jobs and structured support for new teachers, while Spain and Italy suit teachers who prioritise lifestyle and are happy to hustle for language school hours. Check each country guide and our jobs board before you commit.
Next
If you haven’t joined our community on Facebook, you’re missing out on half the fun! Our Facebook page is the perfect place to ask your TEFL questions and get answers directly from William. Join here now...