Where Can a Non-Native English Speaker Teach Abroad?
It can be very disappointing for many people to look at the qualifications for English teaching employment abroad and discover that most companies would only recruit native English speakers. In reality, most suppliers and schools prefer that potential teachers not only be native English speakers, but also come from a certain list of English-speaking nations, which includes the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Canada.
This list noticeably ignores numerous countries where English is widely used and often regarded an official language, such as India and the Philippines. Not to mention that it excludes anyone who has learnt English through the years despite the fact that it is not their first language.
While some of these standards are determined by individual providers, the majority of English-language employment requirements are determined by the country as a whole. Vietnam and Indonesia are prime examples of countries having such criteria. While it may be more difficult to discover suitable jobs as a non-native English speaker, don't despair; there are choices!
Why do certain countries only hire native English speakers for English teaching positions?
Many countries only want first language speakers to teach English, which can appear unfair (and potentially discriminatory). These hiring conditions are frequently used in an effort to hire highly competent teachers who are assured to be fluent in English. This, of course, ignores the tens of thousands of teachers from around the world who are fluent in English, have classroom experience, and are otherwise extremely suited to teach anyplace.
However, rather than concentrating your efforts on obtaining a new passport or convincing these nations' education ministries that you are a great teacher, you would be advised to direct your efforts toward applying for positions in nations where non-native speakers are welcomed and praised. So, before you give up on your job search, take a look at these 8 places where non-native English speakers can teach English abroad.
Where Can a Non-Native English Speaker Teach Abroad?
Cambodia (Khmer)
Cambodia is the simplest Southeast Asian country in which to acquire a job teaching English. Cambodia's criteria are far less stringent than those of its neighbours. To locate an employment, the government does not demand a TEFL certificate, a four-year college degree, or proof of native-speaker residence. However, because you are not a natural speaker, a degree and a TEFL certificate will undoubtedly help you find a job.
Unfortunately, because Cambodia has fewer entry obstacles than its neighbours Thailand and Vietnam, Cambodian teacher salaries are lower as well. Even so, the cost of living in Cambodia isn't particularly exorbitant, and you should be able to maintain yourself with your Cambodian teaching salary, with some money left over to travel around Southeast Asia during your vacation time.
South and Central America
Latin America is one location where citizenship from a native English speaking country is not as important in determining whether you may get hired to teach English. Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama, and Peru are all excellent places to begin.
To teach in Latin America, however, you will require a TESOL, TEFL, or CELTA credential. Many businesses may accept an online TEFL Certificate, but an in-country, in-person certification course that includes job search aid is usually the best option.
The Republic of Turkey
Many countries have the option of teaching abroad in Turkey if they hold a four-year degree. EU residents will have the smoothest experience working in Turkey, however teachers from non-member European countries may also apply.
Finally, teachers from Central and South America may be accepted in Turkey. If you are a non-native speaker from outside the EU, you should have some teaching experience or engage in a Skype call to persuade schools to hire you.
Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia.
Thailand is one of the greatest destinations for a non-native speaker to teach overseas. You are qualified if you have an OEIC score of 600+ or an IELTS score of 5+ and a four-year college degree. (If these abbreviations sound like alphabet soup, visit our guide to language fluency tests around the world.)
While a TEFL certificate or similar is not required by the government, as a non-native speaker, you may want to earn one to boost your chances of getting work (and yes, you can take a TEFL course as a non-native speaker). You can also learn more about teaching lawfully in Thailand by clicking here.
Thailand's pay may not be as high as that of South Korea, Vietnam, or the Gulf countries, but the cost of living is quite low, particularly in the north. Spend your free time at the beach, trekking waterfalls, or eating pad thai.
Europe is a country in Europe.
Teachers who are EU members may be able to find work teaching in another EU country. This is due to the fact that schools will not have to bother about visas. Most EU citizens can lawfully work in other EU countries if they speak great English.
If you are from the EU, you may be able to find work in non-member nations such as Eastern Europe, the former Soviet republics, and the United Kingdom.
The People's Republic of China
The laws governing who can legally teach in China seems to change on a regular basis, but for the time being, non-native English speakers can find work here. In fact, the ESL market in China is thriving, and there are far too few competent teachers to fill available vacancies. As a result, many institutions will hire non-native speakers and provide you with a business visa. As a student, you can also find part-time work or teach for a few months on a tourist visa. These workarounds are utilised when applicants do not meet the legal requirements for a work visa.
The bad news is that being a non-native English instructor in China still carries a stigma. You may discover that your employer lies to your pupils' parents about your status as a native speaker in order to charge you extra for your classes. You may also find it easier to find work if you have a more Westernized accent. This hierarchy of teacher nationalities is clearly not ideal, but if you've always wanted to live in China, now is your chance!
Japan is a country in East Asia.
Japan, last but not least! It is possible to get work in Japan as a non-native speaker, but it is difficult.
You may be eligible for a job in Japan if you can demonstrate that you have completed twelve consecutive years of English-only schooling and have a four-year college degree (in English). This is ideal for students who have grown up attending international schools and may have received their degree in the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom.
Teaching English online is a fantastic way to cross countries without having to worry about passports and visas. For those coming from countries where English language education is not internationally recognised, this can be a terrific opportunity to connect with students from all around the world, all from the comfort of your own couch.
Because of the high need for teachers in China, teaching English online is a very popular choice. However, there are possibilities all over the world, so if you go this method, you may have more possibilities than if you go in-person.