Best Countries to Teach English in Asia

Long on the road to becoming the next economic powerhouse, China cannot open its doors fast enough to English teachers with the goal of equipping their next generation of entrepreneurs, diplomats, scientists, engineers, artists, and businessmen to better engage the global community. In addition, the growing number of middle class families are willing to spend on private language lessons for their kids. However, China's labor market is yet to become lucrative for the employed even when its national economy is slowly exceeding that of the U.S. So salaries for English teachers still tend to be lower compared to other countries such as South Korea and Japan. 

Taiwan generally offers much more lucrative benefits and is almost comparable to South Korea in that regard. On the plus side, getting immersed in the culture and language of the world's next most powerful economy can have potentially rewarding advantages in the long run. Common requirements for securing a work permit in Taiwan include a college diploma, and relevant health documents including HIV test results and chest X-rays.

See our section on Teaching English in China for employers and articles.

South Korea is among the best places in the world to teach English. Culturally rich and economically advanced, South Korea is among the most technologically innovative nations as ranked by many research organizations. Korea is also vibrantly cosmopolitan with thriving entertainment and tourism industries. Given the decades-long U.S. military presence in the country, English has been an entrenched language in the northeast Asia peninsula.  Native English speakers who are also qualified as teachers are in high demand in South Korea. Even native speakers who have very little training or no teaching experience can travel to Korea and help meet the demand for private English tutors. Reportedly, more than 60% of the available English teaching jobs are for teaching the basics of written and conversational English to Korean children and adolescents. A typical employment arrangement of this type includes a monthly salary of US$1,500, airfare, accommodations, holiday benefits, and bonuses upon contract completion. Generally, a work visa, a college degree, and certification from an accredited TEFL organization are required.

See our section on Teaching English in South Korea for employers and articles.

Thailand has one of the most robust tourism industries in the region, making the country a melting pot of different cultures. Compared to Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines, however, Thailand's average English proficiency is very low. Still, the country and its population recognize the need to learn the lingua franca of globalization, making the demand for English teachers on the uptrend. In addition to Bangkok, several other Thai cities such as Hat Yai and beautiful Chiang Mai has been experiencing a healthy demand for English teachers. Unlike in Bangkok, competition is less steep in these areas. Most native speakers of English, especially those with college degrees and English teaching certifications are certain to find a favorable employment in Thailand. Given the huge demand, even those less qualified can find good job offers, though you are always safer with a certificate of some kind.  

See our section on Teaching English in Thailand for employers and articles.

Given the postwar relationship between Japan and the U.S., English is well-respected by the Japanese. The demand for qualified English teachers still attracts many native speakers to set up residence in this culturally rich nation. However, the prolonged economic recession diverted domestic funds that were formerly allocated for English learning to more basic necessities. As a result, fewer English language schools are currently operating compared to their number a decade ago. This makes the top English jobs very competitive, and only the most qualified practitioners of TESL/TEFL usually get a position. Down the line, however, there are still vacancies with acceptable benefits. The cost of getting the job, however, can become prohibitive as costs-of-living in Tokyo and several other Japanese cities are some of the highest in the world. Yet schools and companies are some of the best employers. Native speakers who dream of teaching in Japan can also try out the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program.

See our section on Teaching English in Japan for employers and articles.

Since its open door policy (doi moi) was institutionalized in the mid 1980's, Vietnam has been in the process of transforming its economy into one of the most promising in the region. Its society has also regained its former vibrancy such that the country's welcoming people now ranks with its natural beauty and cultural heritage as the key attractions that draw in millions of tourists annually. In 2019 alone, disclosed tourism receipts reached US$12 billion and growth is only expected to continue. Many factors, including the steady influx of tourists and the globalization of its industries have necessitated the need for qualified English teachers in the country. In fact, English is now considered as the second language with a deeper and more practical influence than did French has historically. Today, proficiency in English is increasingly becoming a critical requirement for employment in many of the country's business sectors. Given this demand, English teaching in Vietnam provides a huge opportunity for native speakers who, in turn, can benefit from the rich cultural immersion the country offers.

Malaysia and its close neighbor, Singapore, are probably the top active users of English in the region, based upon average scores on online tests conducted by language-learning organizations. Both have also experienced periods of British rule such that English has a secure place within both countries' communication infrastructure. Malaysia now implements a balanced language policy between Malay and English, such that educators are encouraged to use media and the internet as tools for teaching English. One ad for an English teacher in Malaysia highlights a hefty package of US$2,000 a month, including accommodations, food, and other in-country support. Many Malaysian locations are great for would-be language teachers who appreciate a laid-back, unhurried, and nature-inspired lifestyle.