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Andi Refandi
Andi serves as a Senior Account Executive on Emerhub’s global team.
Teaching English in Thailand offers foreigners an opportunity to immerse the country’s rich culture while addressing the high demand for English educators.
In this article, we will walk you through the essentials of teaching in Thailand including requirements and visa options.
The Teaching Industry in Thailand
The Growing Industry for English Teachers in Thailand
Thailand’s globalized economy required a significant demand for English proficiency in the work force. Recognizing the importance of English as a second language, the country has the highest salary for English teachers in Southeast Asia.
Salaries for English teachers in Thailand vary based on experience, location, and type of institution. Generally, public school teachers earn between THB 30,000 to 40,000 (approximately USD 900 to USD 1,200) per month, while private language schools and international schools may offer higher salaries ranging from THB 40,000 to 70,000 (USD 1,200 to USD 2,100) or more. Compared to other Southeast Asian countries, Thailand has the highest salary for English teachers in the region.
Popular Locations to Teach English in Thailand
The need for English teachers in Thailand stems from several factors. The country’s booming tourism industry and globalized economy has increased the demand for English teachers across various educational settings. Public schools, private language institutions, and international schools are all seeking qualified educators to enhance their students’ English proficiency.
This demand translates into numerous job opportunities across different types of schools, providing flexibility for teachers to choose their preferred setting. As a foreigner in Thailand, here are the most popular locations to teach English in the country:
- Bangkok – As the capital city, Bangkok is a bustling metropolis with diverse job opportunities for foreigners. It boasts a vibrant nightlife, extensive shopping options, and an array of cultural attractions. You can find teaching positions in international schools or private language centers that cater to both locals and expatriates in the city.
- Chiang Mai – Known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural scenery, Chiang Mai attracts many foreign teachers seeking a more laid-back lifestyle. The city offers numerous teaching opportunities while providing access to beautiful temples and outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local markets.
- Pattaya – famous for its lively beach atmosphere and strong expatriate community. Teaching here allows you to enjoy beach life while working at various language schools or international institutions. The city’s vibrant nightlife adds an exciting element if you’re looking for social activities outside of work.
- Krabi and Other Coastal Areas – if you prefer a more relaxed lifestyle away from the city, Krabi and other coastal areas in Thailand also have plenty of teaching positions in local schools. Not only is a rewarding teaching experience but you can also prioritize your work-life balance and enjoy the great outdoors.
How to Relocate to Teach English in Thailand
Requirements and Eligibility Criteria for Foreigners to Teach in Thailand
The Thai Ministry of Education outlines key eligibility requirements for foreigners to teach English in Thailand. These requirements reflect the Thai government’s commitment to maintaining quality education standards while facilitating the hiring of foreign teachers in its schools. These requirements include the following:
- Must possess a bachelor’s degree in any field as a fundamental requirement for obtaining a Thai work permit. It also ensures a standard level of education among foreign educators in Thailand.
- Must be a native English speaker from recognized English-speaking countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, or South Africa. Non-native speakers can also qualify if they provide proof of English proficiency through standardized tests like TOEIC or IELTS.
- While not always mandatory, many schools and institutions require a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification of at least 120 hours.
- Must have a proof of good conduct from your home country at least three months prior to your job or visa application in Thailand.
- Must have a health certificate from a licensed medical professional to confirm you are physically and mentally fit for teaching.
- Must obtain a Thai work permit to legally teach in Thailand.
Work Permit for Foreigners to Teach in Thailand
Under the Alien Employment Act, foreigners must obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Labor to legally work in Thailand. Regardless of the type of visa, compliance is essential if you want to legally teach in Thailand.
To kickstart this process, you and your hiring institution must prepare all the necessary documentation:
| Documents needed from the applicant | Documents needed from the employer |
| – Original passport and copies of all pages. – Non-Immigrant B Visa. – Letter of employment or work contract detailing salary and job responsibilities. – Academic degrees and certificates – Health certificate – Recent passport-sized photographs (typically three). | – Company registration certificate and list of shareholders. – VAT registration documents. – Employment contract. – Financial statements and tax filings. |
The application fee for a work permit in Thailand is THB 100. The processing time for a Thai work permit typically takes about 7 business days. However, it may vary depending on the location; for example, it can take up to two months in areas like Phuket.
Thailand also has other visa options for teachers in Thailand. If you have specialized high-income teaching jobs in Thailand, you can apply for an LTR visa granted you need USD 80,000 annual income. If you’re teaching English online and want to work remotely from Thailand, you can also apply for a Remote Worker visa.
Based on your qualifications and career plans, Emerhub can provide tailored assistance regarding your visa application in Thailand. We can help apply for a Non-immigrant B visa and a work permit by gathering all the needed documents and liaising with all the Thai authorities.
Want to start teaching in Thailand? Experience a new work culture and have a rewarding career as an English teacher in Thailand. Fill in the form below and one of our experts will get in touch!
