Requirements to Teach English in Asia: A Complete Guide for Foreign Teachers

Asia remains one of the most popular regions for foreigners who want to teach English abroad. With strong government support for English education and consistent demand from schools and parents, teaching opportunities are available across East Asia, Southeast Asia, and beyond.

However, requirements to teach English in Asia vary by country and school type. Understanding these requirements in advance helps foreign teachers prepare documents properly, avoid illegal work, and secure stable positions.

This guide outlines the most common requirements to teach English in Asia and practical tips to improve your chances of getting hired.

1. Bachelor’s Degree: The Core Requirement

In most Asian countries, a Bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement for legal employment as an English teacher. This requirement is directly linked to work permit and visa approval.

What schools and immigration offices usually require
- A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
- The degree does not need to be in education or English
- Degrees from any major are generally accepted
- A physical or notarized copy may be required

Countries such as Vietnam, South Korea, China, and Thailand require a degree for long-term teaching positions. Without it, options are limited and often informal.

2. TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA Certification

A teaching certificate is one of the most important qualifications for teaching English in Asia. Even where it is not legally required, most professional schools expect teachers to have one.

Commonly accepted certificates
- TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
- TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
- CELTA (Cambridge Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults)

General expectations
- At least 120 hours of training
- Online certificates accepted in some countries, but not all
- In-class or blended courses often preferred

Holding a recognized teaching certificate increases job opportunities, starting salary, and employer trust.

3. English Proficiency and Nationality Preferences

Many Asian countries prioritize hiring teachers from English-speaking countries. This preference is often linked to visa regulations or parental expectations.

Commonly preferred passports
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Ireland
- South Africa

That said, non-native English speakers can still find opportunities, especially if they demonstrate strong communication skills, clear pronunciation, and professional teaching ability.

4. Criminal Background Check

A clean criminal background check is required in most Asian countries as part of the work permit process.

Important notes
- Usually issued by the teacher’s home country
- May require notarization and legalization
- Processing time can take several weeks

This is a standard safeguard for positions involving children and is strictly enforced by reputable schools.

5. Health Check and Medical Clearance

Some Asian countries require foreign teachers to complete a medical check before or after arrival.

Typical health check items
- General physical examination
- Blood tests
- Chest X-ray
- Infectious disease screening

For healthy individuals, this is a routine process and rarely a barrier to employment.

6. Teaching Experience: Preferred but Not Always Required

Teaching experience is often preferred but not mandatory, especially for entry-level positions in English centers.

How experience affects job opportunities
- Higher salaries for experienced teachers
- International schools usually require 2+ years of experience
- Classroom experience improves confidence and performance

New teachers can still find solid opportunities, particularly in Southeast Asia.

7. Work Visa and Legal Employment Documents

Legal employment in Asia requires a work visa or work permit sponsored by an employer.

Common documents include
- Passport
- Bachelor’s degree
- Teaching certificate
- Criminal background check
- Medical check
- Employment contract

Foreign teachers should avoid employers who do not provide visa support, as illegal work carries serious risks.

8. Introduction Video: Not Required, but a Major Advantage

An introduction video is rarely a formal requirement, but it has become a strong advantage in the Asian ESL job market.

Why schools value introduction videos
- Assess pronunciation and clarity
- Evaluate confidence and communication style
- Understand personality and teaching presence

Tips for a strong introduction video
- Record in a bright, quiet space
- Dress professionally
- Speak clearly and naturally
- Keep it short (1–2 minutes)
- Briefly introduce your background and teaching style

A clear and professional video can significantly increase response rates from employers.

9. Requirements by Region in Asia

East Asia (China, South Korea, Japan,...)
- Bachelor’s degree required
- Teaching certificate preferred or required
- Strict visa regulations
- Strong enforcement of legal employment

Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia,...)
- Bachelor’s degree required in most cases
- Teaching certificate strongly preferred
- More entry-level opportunities
- High demand for foreign teachers

Middle East and South Asia
- Higher salary potential in some countries
- Stricter qualification and experience requirements
- Often require teaching licenses

10. Why Understanding Requirements Matters

Knowing the requirements to teach English in Asia helps teachers:
- Avoid illegal or unstable jobs
- Prepare documents in advance
- Choose the right country and employer
- Increase long-term career success

Professional preparation directly affects job quality and teaching experience.

11. Find Teaching Jobs Across Asia with Giscoo Job Hub

Giscoo Job Hub connects foreign English teachers with verified schools and English centers across Asia.

Teachers on Giscoo Job Hub can:
- View job requirements clearly before applying
- Filter jobs by country, school type, and qualifications
- Apply directly to trusted employers
- Access roles for both new and experienced teachers

Preparing the right qualifications, and presenting yourself professionally is the key to success when teaching English in Asia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need a degree to teach English in Asia?
Yes. In most Asian countries, a Bachelor’s degree is required for legal employment and work permit approval.

Is a TEFL certificate mandatory?
In many countries, yes. Even where it is not legally required, most reputable schools strongly prefer teachers with a TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certificate.

Can non-native English speakers teach English in Asia?
Yes. Non-native speakers can find opportunities, especially with strong English proficiency, clear pronunciation, and professional qualifications.

Is teaching experience required?
Not always. Many entry-level positions accept new teachers, particularly in Southeast Asia. Experience helps with salary and career growth.

Do I need an introduction video to apply?
No, it is not required. However, a clear and professional introduction video is a major advantage and can help you stand out to employers.

Which Asian country is easiest for first-time teachers?
Vietnam and Thailand are often considered beginner-friendly due to high demand and more flexible entry-level requirements.