Things to know about Teaching English in Vietnam: Guide to Jobs, Requirements, Salary
Vietnam, rich in history and breathtaking beauty, continues to attract more TEFL, TESOL, English teachers every year.
Thinking about teaching English in Vietnam in 2026, a destination with a booming tourism industry and a rising demand for English education, opportunities for teachers are countless.
As Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s top travel destinations, offers more than just a job. Explore lush jungles, relax on pristine beaches, savor local dishes, and explore it’s stunning history.
Why Teaching English in Vietnam?
Vietnam draws English teachers with its energetic cities, striking landscapes, and low cost of living compare to Japan or Korea. Sitting at the heart of Southeast Asia, the country boasts world-famous destinations like Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi. Teaching here isn’t just about work—it’s a chance to experience both iconic attractions and the country’s rich local culture.
To teach legally, a BA degree and a clean criminal record (Police Check)are typically required. A TEF, TESOL, IELTS certificate, relevant experience, or related studies improve job prospects. Many English teachers arrive on a tourist visa and switch to a work visa after securing a job. Volunteering is another great way to explore Vietnam while gaining teaching experience.
If you’re looking for a warm climate, welcoming students and colleagues, and an affordable base for traveling Southeast Asia, Vietnam is the perfect choice. From earning a TEFL certificate to landing a teaching job, this ultimate guide covers everything you need to know in 2026.
Read on to discover teaching opportunities, compare salaries, and learn how to apply!
Teaching english in vietnam for foreigners
Teaching English in Vietnam is booming, with more students enrolling in language courses through English centers and a growing demand for ESL teachers. Young professionals in tourism and banking work on improving their English, while the expanding middle class fuels the need for more instructors.
English lessons are becoming more common in primary schools, creating opportunities for those who prefer teaching children or adults. For ESL teachers seeking an international career, Vietnam could be a good place to start.
Expats rave about Vietnam’s beautiful cities and a completely different country to live in. With stunning scenery, delicious cuisine, a thriving English education market, and a low cost of living, it’s no surprise that Vietnam attracts so many English teachers.
High demand for teachers makes Vietnam an ideal destination for newly certified TEFL instructors, offering plenty of entry-level positions. Competitive salaries provide a comfortable lifestyle without requiring excessive work hours.
Here’s a quick breakdown of essential things to know before teaching English in Vietnam:
- Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, Hai Phong, Can Tho, and Bien Hoa offer the most TEFL job opportunities in Vietnam.
- English teachers in Vietnam typically earn between USD 1200 and 2000 per month. Salaries depend on the employer, location, and experience. Those native English teachers with TEFL certificate and teaching experience in Vietnam often secure higher pay.
- To qualify for a work permit, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, be at least 21 years old, and have a teaching certificate. Native English speakers meet the language requirement automatically, while non-native speakers need an IELTS certificate to prove English proficiency. A clean criminal record and a health check (which can be completed in Vietnam) are also required.
- The school year runs from August to June, with peak hiring from August to December for public schools. Language centers hire year-round. Teaching positions are available in public and private schools, international schools, business English courses, language centers, and volunteer programs.
- Previous teaching experience is not required to teach English in Vietnam.
- The maximum age for teaching in Vietnam is 60.
- Salaries are paid in Vietnamese Dong (VND). Vietnamese is the national language, but with over half the population speaking English, communication is easy, and making friends comes naturally!
Teaching English in Vietnam: What You Need to Know
Thinking about teaching English in Vietnam? From visa requirements to top TEFL courses that strengthen your CV and help you land a great job, here’s everything you need to know!
Vietnam’s ESL market keeps expanding, and employers now set higher standards when hiring teachers. In the past, fluency in English and a degree were often enough, but most schools now expect a teaching certificate—ideally one with at least 120 hours of training.
Since 2020, new regulations have made work permits slightly harder to obtain for non-native speakers. However, anyone with a degree in English or Education, along with a teaching certificate and TESOL, TEFL, IELTS, have a better chance in general.
Here’s a closer look at the specific requirements for both native and non-native English teachers:
Requirements for Teaching English in Vietnam
For Native English Speakers:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in any field.
- Obtain a TEFL certification
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Complete a health check, usually done in Vietnam.
For Non-Native English Speakers:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree, preferably in English or Education.
- Provide an English proficiency certificate (e.g., IELTS).
- Complete a TEFL certification (120 hours minimum preferred).
- Have teaching experience (preferred but not always required).
- Pass a criminal background check. Check out how to obtain a Vietnamese police check
Is it possible to teach in Vietnam without a degree
Although most employers in Vietnam prefer candidates with a degree for work permit approval, it’s still possible to teach without one. Instead of a degree, applicants can present five years of documented teaching experience to qualify for a work permit. While this path is less common, those with relevant experience might still secure teaching positions in countrysides and less likely in the cities.
For those without a degree or experience, volunteering remains an option. Vietnam hosts several reputable volunteer programs, offering placements in various locations. Scroll down to explore more about these opportunities.
Can I teach in Vietnam With No experience?
No teaching experience? No worries! A bachelor’s degree is enough to start your journey as an English teacher in Vietnam. However, the most competitive and high-paying positions—especially in major cities—often attract candidates with stronger qualifications.
This is where a solid TEFL certification makes a difference. A Level 5 or advanced TEFL course helps demonstrate your skills and commitment, giving you an edge even without classroom experience.
Requirements for Visa & Work Permit for Teaching English in Vietnam
To legally teach English in Vietnam, you need a work visa and permit, which your school or employer sponsors. They typically guide you through the paperwork, which includes:
- Certified bachelor’s degree
- Certified teaching certificate (TEFL, etc.)
- Certified IELTS/TOEFL certificate (for non-native English teachers)
- Clean criminal background check
- Health check (done in Vietnam)
- Certified copy of passport
- Passport photos
- Sponsorship documents provided by the school
Your school submits these to the Department of Labour in their region for approval. Processing usually takes about a week, sometimes faster online. While the paperwork might seem overwhelming, the process is straightforward. For those with a degree, visa rejection is rare.
Teaching Without a Visa
Some teachers work without a work visa relaying on 3 month tourist visas, earning cash from schools that skip legal requirements. In 2025, almost all schools won’t accept teachers without a work visa and work permit sponsored by them. If you are thinking of teaching in Vietnam, remember that the school MUST do the work visa for you.
Teaching jobs in Vietnam with visa sponsorship
Vietnam offers a range of teaching jobs with visa sponsorship at public schools, some language centers, and international institutions.
In addition, ESL jobs in Vietnam offer several benefits, including visa sponsorship with support for renewals and work permits every 2 years, and that is included a single-entry visa for teachers to come to Vietnam for the job. To qualify, candidates should be native English speakers (Or non native with English proficiency) with a bachelor’s degree, a TEFL/TESOL certification of at least 120 hours, and some classroom experience, which is especially valuable for securing higher-paying positions.
Salary and living expenses while teaching English in Vietnam
English teachers in Vietnam earn $1,200 to $1,800 USD (£900 – £1,500) per month, depending on the school and benefits included, such as health insurance, visa & work permit assistance, some offer basic housing.
- Public schools: $1,100 – $1,800 USD (£900 – £1,500) per month
- Private language centers: $1,000 – $1,800 USD (£800 – £1,440) per month
- International schools: $2,000 – $4,000 USD (£1,600 – £35,00) per month
- Private tutoring: $12 – $25 USD (£10 – £20) per hour
Location, experience, and educational background in English or Education impact salaries. Spending habits also shape how much money stays in your pocket—frequent dining at Western restaurants or nights out in bars will quickly eat into earnings.
Regardless of your lifestyle, Vietnam offers competitive salary for English teachers. Curious about what your paycheck can cover? Keep reading to explore salary expectations and cost of living details!
| Restaurants | Cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| VND (đ) | USD ($) | GBP (£) | |
| Local meal (Noodle or rice with beef) | 50,000 | 2.19 | 1.67 |
| Domestic beer (0.5 litres) | 20,000 | 0.88 | 0.67 |
| Regular cappuccino | 39,586 | 1.73 | 1.32 |
| Water (0.33 litre) | 7,109 | 0.31 | 0.24 |
| Markets | Cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| VND (đ) | USD ($) | GBP (£) | |
| Regular milk (1 litre) | 34,162 | 1.50 | 1.14 |
| Loaf of white bread | 19,904 | 0.87 | 0.66 |
| Regular eggs (1 dozen) | 33,360 | 1.46 | 1.11 |
| Apples (1 kg) | 62,864 | 2.75 | 2.10 |
| Transportation | Cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| VND (đ) | USD ($) | GBP (£) | |
| One-way ticket (local transport) | 7,000 | 0.31 | 0.23 |
| Monthly pass (regular price) | 200,000 | 8.75 | 6.68 |
| Taxi start (normal tariff) | 11,000 | 0.48 | 0.37 |
| Gasoline (1 litre) | 21,173 | 0.93 | 0.71 |
| Utilities | Cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| VND (đ) | USD ($) | GBP (£) | |
| Electricity & water (for a regular apartment) | 1,517,405 | 66.41 | 50.65 |
| Regular prepaid mobile bill (per month) | 150,000 | 6.00 | 5.00 |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited data per month) | 245,591 | 10.75 | 8.20 |
| Clothing and Shoes | Cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| VND (đ) | USD ($) | GBP (£) | |
| Pair of jeans (Levis 501 or similar) | 916,464 | 40.11 | 30.59 |
| Summer dress in a chain store | 679,276 | 29.73 | 22.67 |
| Nike running shoes (mid-range) | 2,088,877 | 91.42 | 69.72 |
| Men’s leather business shoes | 1,960,355 | 85.79 | 65.43 |
| Rental (1-Bedroom Apartment) | Cost | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | VND (đ) | USD ($) | GBP (£) |
| Hanoi (City Center) | 11,500,000 | 503.50 | 384.00 |
| Hanoi (Outside City Center) | 7,500,000 | 328.00 | 250.00 |
| Ho Chi Minh City (City Center) | 13,000,000 | 569.00 | 434.00 |
| Ho Chi Minh City (Outside City Center) | 8,500,000 | 372.00 | 283.00 |
How much is the average salary for teaching English in Vietnam in 2025
English teachers in Vietnam typically earn between 28,000,000 VND – 45,000,000 VND (£900 – £1,500 / $1,100 – $1,800 USD) per month. Your salary depends on factors like the type of school, location, experience level, and whether you hold a degree in Education or English.
New TEFL teachers can still secure a solid income. Many secure their earnings by tutoring, with hourly rates ranging from 390,000 VND – 600,000 VND (£13 – £22 / $16 – $28).
Teachers with experience or relevant degrees can aim for higher-paying jobs and negotiate better salaries. Generally, positions offering at least 46,000,000 VND (£1,500 / $1,800 USD) per month are a good benchmark for experienced educators.
English teaching jobs in Vietnam
Looking for English teaching jobs in Vietnam? Opportunities are everywhere! TEFL teachers can easily find work, whether in private tutoring, online teaching, or full-time positions in schools.
Language centers and private or public schools hire year-round, offering positions for teachers of all experience levels. While securing a job before arriving is possible, landing one in person is much easier. Many employers prefer face-to-face interviews, making it a great advantage to be in Vietnam when job hunting.
Most TEFL institutions in Vietnam operate professionally and treat teachers well. The role carries a lot of respect, and salaries reflect that. Before accepting a position, talk to current teachers at the school to get an honest view of working conditions and salary competitiveness.
One common challenge teachers face is outdated or inadequate teaching materials, even in private language schools. If a school hands you subpar textbooks, you’ll need to adapt quickly and adjust lesson plans to make the most of what’s available. Schools rarely invest in replacements, so creativity is key.
Job openings in both public and private language schools appear year-round. Major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer plenty of high-end teaching jobs, often within weeks of arriving. A direct, in-person approach works best—bringing a CV and introducing yourself to schools increases your chances significantly. Full-time roles are easier to secure than before, but many teachers prefer juggling part-time jobs for variety and better pay.
Vietnam offers teaching opportunities beyond its biggest cities. Many teachers find rewarding work in destinations like Sapa, Buon Ma Thuot, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Vung Tau, Thanh Hoa, Bac Giang, and Bac Ninh. Whether you prefer urban life or a quieter coastal or mountain setting, Vietnam has a place for you.
Compare teaching opportunities in Vietnam
With a bachelor’s degree, a TEFL qualification, and some experience, teaching at a public school in Vietnam could be a great option. Schools offer competitive salaries for experienced teachers, along with long paid holidays and a balanced work schedule.
Before committing, think about class sizes. Public schools in Vietnam often have up to 60 students per class. Some English teachers work with nearly 1,000 students each week, making it challenging to build strong connections.
If large classes don’t bother you and you meet the qualifications, expect a Monday-to-Friday schedule with weekends off. The school year runs from August to June, providing a structured work environment.
Language centers rank among the top choices for teaching in Vietnam. These places are everywhere, especially in major cities, where you’ll find them on nearly every street. For many ESL teachers, working at a Vietnamese language school offers an excellent opportunity.
For new English teachers, language centers provide an easy entry into the job market. With low competition and high demand, schools constantly look for native-level English speakers to fill multiple roles. Unlike public schools, many language centers offer perks like paid overtime or even training.
Teachers follow a set schedule with fixed hours each week. While this makes planning easier, expect to work evenings and weekends since that’s when most students attend.
Most language schools supply a curriculum and teaching resources, though the quality varies by location and reputation.
For many, teaching English at an international school in Vietnam feels like the ultimate goal. Those with strong qualifications in English or Education—beyond just a TEFL certificate—will find this path the most rewarding. However, new teachers rarely secure positions in these schools.
Qualified teachers will discover top-tier international schools, particularly in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, or Hanoi. These schools typically operate in upscale neighborhoods, where students come from expat families and affluent Vietnamese households.
Salaries and benefits stand out, but so do the workload and expectations. Teachers often design their own curriculum and lesson plans, which can take up a lot of time. However, things like paid holidays, relocation packages, and discounted tuition for teachers’ children make international schools an attractive choice for foreign educators.
Teaching at a university in Vietnam offers another career path for English educators. Well-known universities usually require an MBA degree in a relevant field and solid teaching experience. However, smaller universities often welcome TEFL-certified teachers for mandatory English courses.
University teaching jobs typically pay well and come with long holidays, making them highly sought after. While extended breaks—sometimes up to 18 weeks—sound appealing, keep in mind that time off means no paycheck or savings during those months.
Kindergartens and preschools cater to children aged 12 months to 6 years. Montessori Teaching English at this level is a popular job in Vietnam, especially in major cities like Hanoi. The work environment is friendly, and a teaching assistant usually helps in the classroom. Schools provide plenty of fun teaching materials, minimizing preparation time. Class sizes range from 8 to 20 kids, with lessons lasting between 30 and 40 minutes.
English Teaching Programs in Vietnam
If finding a teaching job in Vietnam isn’t an option, you have limited time, or prefer to volunteer, several English teaching programs might be worth considering.
Unlike paid positions, these programs have fewer requirements, but some basic criteria still apply. Most accept applicants aged 18 and older, and some prefer candidates who have completed at least a year of a degree or diploma. Others may prioritize those with a year of relevant teaching experience.
Many volunteer teaching programs come with fees, so you’ll need to cover both the program cost and airfare. Most packages include accommodation, meals, airport pickup, and on-the-ground training and support from the organizer. However, reviewing the details carefully is essential to understand what’s covered and what additional expenses you might need to handle upon arrival.
Program lengths vary, typically lasting between one and six months. Participants often live and work alongside other foreign teachers, making it easy to build friendships. Since weekends are usually free, volunteering provides the perfect balance between gaining teaching experience and exploring Vietnam.
Teaching english in Hanoi requirements
Thinking about teaching English in Hanoi? You’re making a great decision! As Vietnam’s second-largest city, Hanoi attracts a large number of English ESL teachers. A large, welcoming expat population ensures you’ll always have people to connect with.
Living in a large city like Hanoi comes with its challenges. The traffic-heavy streets contribute to high pollution levels, which peak during winter. When combined with the cold and damp weather, the smog can make the city feel grey and unwelcoming at times.
However, getting away for a break couldn’t be easier. Hanoi sits close to some of Vietnam’s most famous attractions, such as Halong Bay, Ninh Binh and a lot of other amazing places in northern part of the country. Plus, Noi Bai International Airport offers budget-friendly domestic flights to places like Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc, along with affordable international routes to Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia.
The demand for English teachers in Hanoi remains high, though competition for the best positions can be tough. New language schools constantly emerge, fueling a booming English-learning market. Even those new to TEFL can secure jobs with relative ease. With competitive salaries, a low cost of living, and endless opportunities to explore, it’s easy to see why Hanoi is a top destination for English teachers.
Unlike the modern feel of Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi exudes old-dame charm. The historic Old Quarter, packed with street food vendors, bustling markets, and charming cafés, makes for a fascinating place to wander during free time.
Still, when it comes to finding a place to live, many expats opt for quieter, more spacious neighborhoods. Tay Ho (West lake), once a small fishing village, has transformed into an area filled with stylish cafés, boutiques, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for foreign teachers and most of the expats looking for a comfortable home base.
Teaching English in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam’s largest metropolis, thrives as the country’s financial and commercial center. With around 14 million residents, the city pulses with energy, embodying Vietnam’s entrepreneurial drive. A lively nightlife scene and a deep-rooted street food culture keep the city buzzing around the clock. Roughly 7.5 million motorbikes zip through its streets daily. Situated along the Saigon River, just north of the Mekong Delta, the city offers a dynamic and fast-paced lifestyle.
English teaching jobs (at schools and or at centers), making teaching opportunities widely available. Most of the center offers modern facilities, including air-conditioned classrooms, computers, projectors, and sound systems. Teachers also have access to fully equipped preparation rooms, ensuring a smooth workflow. A Training Quality Manager oversees each center, providing professional guidance and support.
To apply for a teaching Job, teachers need a bachelor’s degree, a teaching certificate, and native-level English proficiency. The hiring process includes an interview where candidates showcase their teaching abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
This guide covers all the essentials about teaching English in Vietnam. However, if you still have questions, here are answers to some of the most common inquiries about the teaching experience in one of Southeast Asia’s top destinations.
Vietnam sets the age limit for teaching jobs at 60, so teaching English after retirement isn’t an option.
That said, many educators find great fulfillment in volunteering, even when paid positions aren’t available for those over 60. If you’re able to do so, volunteering in Vietnam can be an incredibly local experience.
Yes, it can be done!
While having a degree makes the visa process possible, five years of relevant experience can sometimes serve as an alternative. Another option is volunteering, which provides a great way to teach English in Vietnam without a degree.
There are way too many English centers in big cities of Vietnam looking for part time teachers to teach English. The classes are usually after 5pm and it can be from 2-3 hours per night to 10-15 hours per week. To teach English in Vietnam (part time or full time), you’ll need a degree and a Professional TEFL certificate of at least 120 hours. Schools typically prefer native speakers with a bachelor’s degree, but non-native speakers with the right certification and experience can also secure great teaching opportunities.
English teachers in Vietnam typically earn between ₫25 million and ₫45 million ($1,000 – $2,000) per month. Those working at language schools usually make around ₫28 million – ₫42 million ($1,200 – $1,800), while public school positions can offer salaries reaching up to ₫45 million ($2,000).