What You Need to Teach English in Thailand
To work legally and confidently as an English teacher in Thailand, you’ll need to meet a set of clearly defined requirements linked to your qualifications.
- Bachelor’s degree
In practice, almost all legal teaching jobs in Thailand require a university degree, because it’s needed to obtain both a work permit and a teaching licence. While the visa rules are separate, schools cannot normally employ teachers without a degree.
There are a few limited exceptions – such as temporary waivers, assistant roles, or informal arrangements – but these are uncommon, often short-term, and don’t offer the same legal security or career prospects.
Your original diploma and transcripts will usually need to be notarised and legalised, either in your home country or through a Thai embassy, depending on your employer’s process – a process that can take several weeks, so start early.
- TEFL certificate
A properly accredited 120-hour TEFL or TESOL certificate is the industry standard. While not a strict government requirement for the visa itself, almost all reputable schools expect it, and it will significantly improve your job prospects and classroom confidence.
- English proficiency
Schools strongly prefer native English speakers from the UK, US, Canada, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Non-native speakers can and do teach in Thailand, but you may be asked to provide a TOEIC score of around 600+ or an IELTS score of 5 or 5.5+, along with demonstrating clear spoken English during interviews. A strong TEFL certificate and prior teaching experience also help.
- Background and health checks
You’ll need a clean police background check from your home country. Once in Thailand, you’ll also undergo a basic medical examination at a local clinic or hospital, which your school will usually help arrange.
- Age
Many government and private schools follow Thailand’s official retirement age of around 60 when sponsoring work permits. Some private schools, language centres, and international schools may show flexibility for teachers slightly over this age, particularly if they have strong qualifications and experience, but approval is discretionary and not guaranteed.
- Experience
Prior classroom experience is helpful but not essential for most positions. Thailand is one of the more accessible TEFL markets for first-time teachers, particularly at government schools and language centres. If your TEFL course included a practical teaching component, that’s normally enough to get started.
How to Choose the Right TEFL Course for Thailand
Choosing the right TEFL course is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as you prepare to teach in Thailand. A quality course gives you both the practical skills you’ll need in the classroom and the credibility that gets your CV noticed.
For more about choosing a course, see our 6 Questions to Ask When Choosing a TEFL Course.
When comparing courses, here’s what to look for:
- Accreditation and recognition
Your certificate should be fully accredited and widely recognised by schools in Thailand and internationally.
- Observed teaching practice
With real students and feedback from experienced trainers, not just role-playing with classmates.
- Lesson planning and classroom skills
Make sure the course teaches you how to plan and deliver engaging, effective lessons. Thailand’s classrooms often involve large groups of young learners, so practical techniques for keeping students engaged and managing energy levels are essential.
- Job support
Look for a course that offers guidance on finding work after you qualify – from CV tips and interview practice to employer connections and ongoing advice.
For more about the importance of accreditation, see TEFL Accreditation: What is it and why is it important?
Both online and in-person TEFL courses are accepted by schools in Thailand, but taking your TEFL course in Thailand itself offers some clear advantages:
- Many employers prefer candidates who are already in Thailand and available to start quickly.
- You can begin building a local network and may even meet potential employers during your course.
- You’ll get first-hand experience of the kinds of learners and classroom dynamics you’ll encounter in Thai schools.
From Training to Teaching in Thailand: Getting Your First Job
Once you’ve completed your TEFL course, finding your first teaching role in Thailand is usually straightforward, particularly if you’re flexible about location and school type. Demand for English teachers remains strong across much of the country, particularly in government schools and urban centres, and many schools hire quickly once they find the right candidate.
Being in Thailand when you apply makes a real difference. Schools often prefer to meet candidates in person, and being available for a face-to-face interview and demo lesson can speed things up considerably.
What Employers Are Looking For
Thai employers tend to focus on confidence, energy, and how well you connect with students. Clear spoken English, a professional appearance, and a positive, flexible attitude count for a lot. Schools that serve younger learners – which is a large proportion of the market – place particular value on teachers who can keep a class engaged through games, activities, and interactive techniques.
Flexibility matters too. Teachers who are willing to work outside Bangkok, teach a range of age groups, or take on early morning or evening hours will generally find work more easily.
Interviews and Demo Lessons
Interviews in Thailand are usually practical and relatively informal. You may be asked to deliver a short demo lesson – typically 10–15 minutes – either in person or via video call. Schools want to see that you can manage a group, give clear instructions, and bring energy to the room.
Tip: Prepare a simple, adaptable demo lesson in advance. Having something ready – with a game or interactive element – makes a strong impression, especially if a school asks you to teach at short notice.
How Teachers Commonly Find Work
Most teachers find jobs through a combination of online job boards, direct approaches to schools, and word of mouth. Ajarn.com is widely regarded as one of the main job boards for teaching positions in Thailand, alongside Facebook groups for specific cities and regions.
Walking into schools with a printed CV is still common, particularly at language centres. If you take your TEFL course in Thailand, your training centre may be able to introduce you to trusted employers or point you toward schools that regularly hire newly qualified teachers.
Many schools also use recruitment agencies. These can be helpful for first-time teachers, but check the terms carefully – some agencies take a significant cut of your monthly salary in exchange for placement services. Reputable agencies are transparent about any fees or deductions.
Tip: Schools in Thailand often use LINE (a messaging app) for initial contact and day-to-day communication. Having LINE installed and your contact details visible on your CV can speed up responses.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
- Recruitment agencies that charge ongoing fees: Some agencies place teachers on contracts where a percentage of the monthly salary is paid to the agency. This can significantly reduce take-home pay, so always ask upfront how you’ll be paid and whether any ongoing deductions apply.
- 11-month contracts: Some schools offer contracts that end just before the April holiday break, avoiding the need to pay you for that period. This can also affect your visa status. Where possible, negotiate a full 12-month contract.
- Working without proper documentation: Some schools may ask you to start teaching on a tourist visa while paperwork is processed. While this is common in practice, it is technically illegal and carries real risks. A reputable school will be upfront about timelines and won’t expect you to work indefinitely without proper documentation.
For more advice on preparing applications and interviews, see TEFL Interview Questions and How to Answer Them.
Visas and Work Permits: What You Need to Work Legally
Thailand’s legal requirements for teaching involve three separate documents: a Non-Immigrant B visa, a work permit, and a teaching licence (or temporary waiver). Understanding how these fit together will make the process much less stressful.
Most reputable schools will guide you through the paperwork once you’re hired, but knowing what to expect in advance helps you prepare the right documents and avoid delays.
Here’s how the process usually works in practice:
- Secure a job offer
You’ll need a confirmed position before the visa process can begin. Your school will provide supporting documents including an invitation letter and, in many cases, will begin applying for your teaching licence.
- Obtain a Non-Immigrant B visa
The Non-B visa is the legal foundation for employment in Thailand. It’s typically issued for 90 days and can be extended once your work permit is in place. Most teachers apply at a Thai embassy or consulate outside Thailand – either in their home country or in a nearby country such as Laos or Malaysia. The visa fee is approximately 2,000 THB for a single-entry visa (fees vary by consulate).
- Apply for your work permit
Once you’ve entered Thailand on your Non-B visa, your employer applies for your work permit through the Ministry of Labour. You’ll need to complete a medical examination at a local clinic. The work permit is now processed through Thailand’s e-Work Permit system, and usually involves an in-person biometric appointment as part of the application. Reputable schools handle most of this paperwork on your behalf.
- Teaching licence or temporary waiver
All teachers in formal schools (government and registered private schools) are required to hold a licence issued by the Teachers Council of Thailand (Khurusapha). Teachers with a degree in education or a recognised home-country teaching licence may qualify for a full five-year Thai teaching licence. If your degree is in another subject, you’ll usually be issued a temporary teaching licence (waiver), typically valid for two years and renewable in most cases up to three times – giving a total of around six years. To continue teaching beyond this, you’ll normally need to complete a recognised teaching qualification, such as the TPDI 7-Module Training programme or a graduate diploma in education.
- Ongoing immigration compliance
Once working, you must report your address to immigration every 90 days (known as TM47 reporting). Your landlord or school should also file a TM30 residence notification. If you plan to leave Thailand during your contract – even for a short holiday – you must obtain a re-entry permit before you go. Without one, your visa will be cancelled when you exit, which also invalidates your work permit.
Tip: Have your degree, transcripts, TEFL certificate, and police background check notarised and legalised before you travel to Thailand. This process can take 5–12 weeks in some countries, and missing documents can delay your work permit by months.
What about entering on a tourist visa first?
Many teachers arrive in Thailand on a tourist visa (typically valid for 60 days) to take a TEFL course or look for work. Once hired, you’ll usually need to leave Thailand briefly – a “visa run” to a nearby country such as Laos or Malaysia – to apply for your Non-B visa at a Thai consulate there. This is a well-established process and your school will advise on logistics, but it does add time and cost, so factor it into your planning.
Note: Visa regulations can change at short notice. Always check official government sources before making travel or work plans.
Teaching Jobs in Thailand: Where You’ll Work and What You’ll Earn
Teaching jobs in Thailand come in a variety of settings, each with its own expectations, schedules, and pay levels. Most full-time contracts involve 18–25 classroom hours per week, with teachers typically on campus during standard school hours (often around 7:30am–4:30pm) in formal school settings, Monday to Friday. Paid holidays, benefits, and contract terms vary widely between employers.
- Government (public) schools
The most common employer for foreign teachers. Classes are large – often 30–50+ students – and resources can be limited, but the schedule is predictable and there’s strong demand across the country, including in rural areas. Salaries typically range from 25,000–45,000 THB per month.
- Private and bilingual schools
These schools usually have smaller classes, better facilities, and more structured support. Some follow bilingual programmes where teachers deliver subjects such as maths or science in English. Salaries range from 35,000–70,000 THB per month, with some offering a housing allowance.
- International schools
The highest-paying and most competitive positions. International schools follow Western curricula (British, American, or IB) and typically require a recognised teaching licence, a degree, and several years of classroom experience. Salaries range from 80,000–170,000+ THB per month, often with additional benefits such as housing subsidies, health insurance, and annual flights.
- Universities
University positions offer lower contact hours (often under 20 per week), generous holidays, and high prestige. A Bachelor’s degree is the minimum; a Master’s degree significantly improves your chances. Salaries typically range from 30,000–60,000 THB per month.
- Language centres
Private language centres serve children after school and adults in the evenings and at weekends. Pay is often calculated hourly, typically 250–500+ THB per hour, with monthly earnings varying depending on the number of hours you teach. These roles offer flexibility but less job security than formal school contracts.
- Private tutoring
A common way to supplement your income. Rates typically range from 400–1,000 THB per hour, depending on experience, location, and client type. Business English and exam preparation (particularly IELTS) tend to command higher rates. Check that your contract and visa conditions allow private work.
Tip: Before accepting a job, ask about the full package: housing allowance, health insurance, paid holidays, and whether the contract covers a full 12 months. A slightly lower base salary with good benefits can work out better overall.
When to Apply for Teaching Jobs in Thailand
Thailand’s academic year runs on a two-semester system. The first semester begins in May and the second in November. This creates two main hiring windows:
- February to April for positions starting in May.
- September to October for positions starting in November.
International schools generally follow a Western calendar, starting in August or September, and begin recruiting much earlier – often from November of the previous year.
Language centres and private tutoring operate year-round, with steady turnover and regular openings regardless of the month.
Tip: If you plan to find work on the ground, aim to arrive in Thailand at least a month before the start of a semester. This gives you time to settle in, complete a TEFL course if needed, and interview during peak demand.
Living Costs & How Much You Can Save in Thailand
Thailand’s low cost of living is one of the main reasons teachers choose to work here. While salaries are modest compared to some other TEFL markets, everyday expenses are relatively low compared with many Western countries, and most teachers live comfortably, especially outside Bangkok and the major tourist areas.
Accommodation is usually your biggest monthly expense. A basic apartment in a smaller city or outside a city centre can cost as little as 3,000–6,000 THB per month. A modern one-bedroom condo in Bangkok typically costs 9,000–25,000 THB, depending on the neighbourhood and building quality. Some schools provide free accommodation or a housing allowance of 3,000–5,000 THB.
Food is one of Thailand’s biggest advantages. Street food and local restaurants are excellent and inexpensive – a typical meal costs 40–70 THB. A meal at a Western-style restaurant is noticeably more, typically 200–400 THB. Monthly grocery costs usually fall around 5,000–7,000 THB if you mix local and imported products.
Monthly utilities – electricity, water, and internet – usually total 1,500–3,500 THB. Air conditioning is the main variable; running it heavily in the hot season can push electricity bills up significantly.
Transport costs are low. Public transport in Bangkok (BTS Skytrain, MRT, and buses) is efficient and affordable – a monthly pass costs under 1,500 THB. In smaller cities, many teachers rent a motorbike for 2,000–3,500 THB per month. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely available and inexpensive for short journeys.
Tip: If you rent a motorbike, choose a reputable rental company and take time to check the brakes, tyres, and lights before setting off. Road safety in Thailand requires caution, and an international driving permit is officially required.
With careful budgeting, a teacher earning 30,000–35,000 THB per month can live comfortably and save a modest amount, particularly outside Bangkok. In the capital, the same salary covers basic living costs but leaves less room for savings. Teachers at private, bilingual, or international schools – or those who supplement their income with tutoring – can save more meaningfully.
Before arriving, it’s wise to have at least 30,000–50,000 THB (roughly $850–$1,400 USD) saved to cover your first month’s rent, a deposit, daily expenses, and any visa-related costs before your first salary arrives.
Figures above are based on publicly available data sources (actual costs may vary depending on location and lifestyle):
Where You Can Live and Teach in Thailand
Most teaching jobs in Thailand are concentrated in Bangkok, but there are opportunities across the country – from northern mountains to southern beaches to quiet rural provinces. Where you choose to live will shape both your teaching experience and your lifestyle.
Bangkok
Bangkok is by far the largest job market, with the widest range of positions across all school types – government schools, language centres, private and bilingual schools, universities, and international schools. Salaries are the highest in the country, but so is the cost of living, particularly rent. The city is vast, and commutes can be long. Teachers who live close to their school or on a convenient BTS/MRT line have a noticeably easier daily routine. Bangkok suits teachers who want the best choice of jobs, the highest earning potential, and access to a large expat community.
Chiang Mai
Thailand’s second most popular base for teachers, Chiang Mai offers a more relaxed pace of life, lower living costs, and a strong expat and digital nomad community. Teaching positions are mainly in government schools, language centres, and a smaller number of private schools. Salaries are typically a little lower than in Bangkok, but the reduced cost of living – particularly rent – often means teachers can save as much or more. Chiang Mai is a popular choice for those who prefer a quieter, more community-oriented lifestyle with easy access to mountains and nature.
Phuket and the Southern Coast
Thailand’s southern regions attract teachers drawn to a beach lifestyle. Jobs exist in Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui, mainly in private schools and language centres connected to the tourism industry. Positions are competitive and the cost of living is higher than in most of the country due to tourism, so be realistic about savings. These locations suit teachers who prioritise lifestyle and are flexible about the type of work they take on.
Isaan (Northeast Thailand)
For teachers who want deep cultural immersion and the lowest cost of living in the country, the Isaan region offers an experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. Cities such as Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Nakhon Ratchasima have government schools with a steady need for English teachers. You may be one of very few foreigners in town, which brings genuine immersion but also means fewer Western conveniences. Salaries are modest, but expenses are very low, and many teachers find the experience deeply rewarding.
Other Cities and Provincial Areas
Smaller cities such as Chiang Rai, Hua Hin, Ayutthaya, and Pattaya each have their own character and a smaller but steady demand for teachers. Provincial towns offer lower costs and a slower pace, and some come with accommodation included or subsidised. These are good options for teachers who want stability and community rather than the pace of a large city.
Tip: When choosing where to live, consider how far you’ll be from your school. Bangkok’s size surprises many new teachers – a job that looks “only a few metro stops away” on the map can still mean an hour’s commute at rush hour.
Cultural Tips for Teaching in Thailand
- Make it fun (sanuk)
Thai students expect learning to be enjoyable. Games, music, and interactive activities aren’t optional extras – they’re essential for keeping students engaged, especially younger learners. If lessons feel dry, students will switch off quickly.
- Protect face
The concept of “face” is central to Thai culture. Never shout, show anger, or criticise a student publicly. Corrections should be gentle and private. A loss of face – for you or for the student – damages relationships and respect.
- Dress conservatively and professionally
Teachers are highly respected in Thailand. Men are expected to wear collared shirts and trousers; women should wear knee-length skirts or dresses that cover the shoulders. Always remove your shoes before entering homes, temples, and many classrooms.
- Respect the head and feet
The head is considered sacred – never touch anyone’s head, even playfully. The feet are considered low, so avoid pointing your feet at people, religious images, or the Thai flag.
- Show respect for the monarchy and religion
The Thai people hold deep reverence for the monarchy and Buddhism. Criticism of the Royal Family can carry severe legal consequences. Stand still during the national anthem (played twice daily, at 8am and 6pm), and show respect around monks and temple grounds.
- Expect flexibility
Thailand’s sabai sabai (relaxed) culture means plans can change at short notice. Timetables may shift, meetings may be rearranged, and communication can be indirect. Patience and adaptability will serve you well.
- Learn the wai and a few Thai phrases
The traditional greeting – hands pressed together with a slight bow – is an important sign of respect. Learning basic phrases like sawadee (hello) and khop khun (thank you) goes a long way with students and colleagues.
Career Growth and Opportunities in Thailand
Many teachers arrive in Thailand intending to stay for a year, then find that steady work, lifestyle balance, and clear progression opportunities encourage them to stay longer. With experience and reliability, it’s common to move into better-paid roles and more stable positions over time.
- Move into better-paying schools
With classroom experience and good references, teachers commonly progress from government schools to well-run private or bilingual schools that offer higher pay, smaller classes, and stronger support.
- Target international schools
International schools represent the top of the career ladder in Thailand. To reach this level, you’ll typically need a recognised teaching licence from your home country and at least two years of post-certification experience. A Master’s degree in education is a further advantage. The rewards include salaries of 80,000–170,000+ THB, housing support, health insurance, and annual flights.
- Specialise in high-demand areas
IELTS preparation, Business English, and young learner expertise are all in strong demand. Teachers who build a reputation in these areas can command higher hourly rates through private tutoring and attract more consistent work.
- Take on academic or coordination roles
Larger schools sometimes promote experienced teachers into senior teacher, academic coordinator, or head-of-department positions. These roles involve mentoring new teachers, overseeing curriculum, and managing assessments.
- Work toward a permanent teaching licence
If you plan to stay beyond six years, you’ll need to convert your temporary teaching licence into a permanent one. The main routes are the TPDI 7-Module Training programme (run by the Teachers Council of Thailand) or a graduate diploma in teaching. Completing this opens up long-term career stability and removes the renewal limits on your licence.
- Use Thailand as a stepping stone
Experience gained in Thailand often opens doors to more competitive roles elsewhere, as schools value the classroom management skills and adaptability developed in large, mixed-ability classes.
Tip: Be wary of staying in a low-paying entry-level role for too long without developing your qualifications. Base salaries at government schools and basic language centres have remained relatively flat for many years, while living costs in cities like Bangkok have increased. Upskilling and specialising is the best way to keep your career and earnings moving forward.
Ready to Get Started?
If you choose a solid TEFL course, understand the visa and work permit process, and arrive with realistic expectations, Thailand offers a rewarding and accessible start to your TEFL career.
- Take our quiz to see if teaching in Thailand is a good fit for you.
- Get in touch if you’d like honest advice or have any questions.
We’ve been helping new teachers take their first steps in TEFL since 2005, and we’re here to help when you’re ready.
Helpful Links
Sources & References
In addition to the cost of living sources, some information in this guide is based on publicly available data from the following official sources:
This guide also draws on over 20 years of experience supporting teachers and schools in Thailand since 2005.
