Teaching English in Spain
The landscape for EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teachers in Spain has shifted significantly in recent years.
Overview
The landscape for EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teachers in Spain has shifted significantly in recent years. While the golden days of walking into a language school and securing a job on the spot may be over, Spain remains one of the top destinations for qualified TESOL teachers looking to live and work abroad.
The Current Demand for English Teachers in Spain
The demand for English in Spain declined temporarily due to the effects of COVID-19, leading to school closures and a rise in online learning. However, as the economy stabilizes and global markets rebound, the need for English proficiency is once again on the rise.
Spain, the third-largest country in Western Europe, continues to value English as a critical skill for business, education, and travel. In 2025, the demand for Business English is booming, fueled by an increasingly globalized economy. Additionally, all university students must now demonstrate a certain level of English proficiency, which has increased opportunities for EFL teachers in higher education and exam preparation.
Where to Find EFL Teaching Jobs in Spain
While many traditional language schools have closed, private academies, online platforms, and corporate training programs are thriving. Here’s where you can find teaching opportunities:
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Private Language Academies: Many still cater to children, teenagers, and adults looking to improve their English skills.
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Business English: Many Spanish companies invest in corporate English training for employees to stay competitive in international markets.
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University & Exam Preparation: With English proficiency now a university requirement, there is strong demand for teachers who can prepare students for exams like IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge assessments.
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Online & Hybrid Teaching: Many teachers supplement their income by offering private lessons online through platforms like iTalki, Preply, and Cambly.
Teaching Young Learners vs. Business Professionals
Teaching young learners can be highly rewarding, as they tend to pick up the language quickly and enjoy interactive lessons. However, some students are enrolled in lessons by parents rather than personal choice, which can present challenges.
On the other hand, Business English offers lucrative opportunities, especially for teachers with corporate experience. Many professionals seek tailored lessons to improve their workplace communication skills, making this an in-demand niche
Tips for teaching English in Spain
In a country that values education, a good, accredited TESOL is highly prized.
The courses we would recommend for Spain are:
* 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.
Teaching in Spain at a glance (2026)
| Requirements | 120-hour TEFL for academies; auxiliares programme needs a degree-track background - check current year’s rules |
| Typical pay | Auxiliares stipend €700–€1,000; academies €1,100–€1,500; privates €15–€25/hour |
| Main routes | Auxiliares de conversación, private academies, private lessons, summer camps |
| Hiring season | Auxiliares applications open early in the year for October starts; academies hire September and January |
| Visa | Auxiliares/student-class visas for non-EU citizens; EU and Irish passports work freely |
Can non-EU citizens legally teach in Spain?
Yes - via the auxiliares programme or a student visa with part-time work rights. Straight academy sponsorship for new teachers is rare; almost everyone starts on one of those two routes.
How do teachers actually make Madrid or Barcelona work financially?
Stipend or academy salary as the backbone plus 8–10 private students: €1,300–€1,600/month, comfortable in a shared flat.
Plan your move
- How much do English teachers make in Spain? (full salary guide)
- Current teaching jobs in Spain on our jobs board
- The 120-hour TESOL Certificate- the qualification every route below expects