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ToggleMoving to Thailand to Teach English: 10 Things You Need to Know
Moving abroad to teach English in Thailand is a dream many people share, especially for those looking for a fresh start and a new lifestyle. Thailand is one of the best destinations for teachers from the UK – it offers affordable living, steady demand for English teachers, and an exciting culture to dive into. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling streets of Bangkok or the peaceful pace of Chiang Mai, the chance to teach English in Thailand gives you more than just a job – it gives you a new way of life. But before you pack your bags, there are a few things you should know. This guide will give you the essentials, and if you’re ready for step-by-step instructions, my full Thailand Relocation Guide is available in my STAN store.
Why Thailand Is a Top Choice for English Teachers
Thousands move every year to teach English in Thailand because of the steady demand and lifestyle benefits. Thailand has a unique mix of opportunity, culture, and lifestyle that makes it stand out among other teaching destinations in Asia. English teachers are in steady demand, with roles available in schools, language centres, and private tutoring year-round.
Beyond the classroom, Thailand offers a lifestyle many dream of:
Low cost of living – Your money goes further than in the UK.
Travel hub – Affordable flights to Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, and beyond.
Warm and welcoming locals – Thai hospitality is famous worldwide.
Balance of modern and traditional – Bangkok has all the big-city comforts, while smaller towns keep life relaxed and authentic.
For me, Bangkok was the best starting point. It gave me a solid base with plenty of teaching jobs, great transport links, and access to weekend trips – while still letting me dive into Thai culture.
What You’ll Need Before You Go
One of the most common questions is: What do I need to teach in Thailand? If you plan to teach English in Thailand, a degree and TEFL certificate are almost always required. The basics are straightforward:
A bachelor’s degree (in any subject).
A TEFL certificate – 120 hours is the standard minimum.
Passport with at least six months’ validity.
Visa support from your employer (usually a Non-Immigrant B visa).
You’ll also want to budget for your first 1–2 months in Thailand, as your first payday may not arrive straight away. A buffer of £1,500–£2,500 gives you breathing room for deposits, rent, and initial costs.
The exact visa process, including documents you’ll need and how to avoid common mistakes, is broken down in my relocation guide.
Do You Need a TEFL to Teach in Thailand?
The short answer: yes. Most people who want to teach English in Thailand will need at least a 120-hour TEFL course. Most schools and language centres require teachers to hold a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate. The industry standard is 120 hours, and while some employers may accept less, you’ll have more options and better pay with the full certification.
When I did mine, I chose an online TEFL course because it fit around my UK job before I left. But there are also in-person courses available in Thailand that include cultural orientation and job placement support.
Where You Can Teach in Thailand
There are several ways to teach English in Thailand and there a numerous options when it comes to teaching jobs:
- Public or Private Schools – Structured schedule, steady income, and holidays.
Language Centres – Often involves working evenings/weekends, flexible schedules.
Private Tutoring – More freedom, higher hourly rates, but no job security.
Online Teaching – Works as a side hustle, but won’t qualify you for a visa.
I personally started in a language centre. Coming from a corporate job, I didn’t have teaching experience, but I had a degree and TEFL. It was the right balance of support and flexibility.
In my guide, I break down the pros and cons of each option, plus how to land your first job offer quickly.
Work Permits and Salary
One of the most important parts of moving to Thailand to teach is understanding how the work permit process works and what kind of salary you can realistically expect.
A work permit is essential – it’s what makes teaching legal and protects you while working in Thailand. Most employers (schools and language centres) will help you with the paperwork once you’ve accepted a job. You’ll usually need your degree, TEFL certificate, passport, and supporting documents. Processing times vary, but once approved, your permit allows you to stay and work long-term.
As for salary, most teachers earn between 30,000–45,000 baht per month (£700–£1,000). The exact amount depends on location, type of school, and your experience. Bangkok tends to pay more, but living costs are higher than in smaller towns. Many teachers find that even on a modest salary, they can live comfortably, enjoy travel, and save a little too.
Life Beyond the Classroom: What to Expect
Those who teach English in Thailand often say it’s the lifestyle outside the classroom that keeps them here. Teaching in Thailand is rewarding, but it’s the lifestyle that makes people stay. Here’s a snapshot of what daily life looks like:
Affordable rent and bills – Even in Bangkok, you can live comfortably on £600–£800 a month.
Food heaven – Street food meals cost £1–£1.50 and taste amazing.
Transport options – The BTS Skytrain in Bangkok is fast, safe, and easy.
Community – There’s a thriving expat and teacher network for support and friendship.
Yes, there are challenges (slow bureaucracy, tropical weather, cultural differences), but most expats agree the benefits far outweigh them.
Best Cities in Thailand for Teaching English
If you plan to teach English in Thailand, choosing where you live shapes your experience. Here are a few popular choices:
Bangkok – Busy, modern, full of teaching jobs, nightlife, and connections.
Chiang Mai – Relaxed, cheaper cost of living, and a huge expat community.
Phuket / Krabi – Beautiful beaches, tourist vibe, seasonal teaching roles.
Smaller towns – Lower costs, closer to local culture, fewer Western comforts.
Accommodation: Finding Your New Home
When you move to teach English in Thailand, finding the right neighbourhood is just as important as finding the right job. Most teachers in Thailand rent apartments or condos. The good news? Most come furnished, so you don’t need to buy much. Expect to pay somewhere around £200–£450 per month in Bangkok and less in Chiang Mai or rural towns.
You’ll usually need 1–2 months’ rent upfront, plus a deposit. I recommend booking an Airbnb first to explore different neighbourhoods before committing long-term.
I share trusted rental platforms and real examples of rental costs in my guide.
Budgeting: How Far Your Salary Goes
The salary for teaching English in Thailand may sound modest, but your money goes a long way. On average, English teachers earn £700–£1,000 per month (30,000–45,000 baht). That may sound low by UK standards, but in Thailand it goes a long way.
Here’s an example breakdown (Bangkok lifestyle):
Rent & utilities – £250–£400
Food – £150–£250 (more if you eat Western food often)
Transport – £40–£60
Extras (gym, socialising, travel) – £100–£200
You can live well, enjoy nights out, and still save a little. Western luxuries (like wine, cheese, or branded clothes) are pricey, so many expats adjust their habits.
Is Thailand Safe for Teachers?
Yes – Many who teach English in Thailand find the country safer than expected. Violent crime is rare, especially against foreigners. Like anywhere, petty theft can happen in touristy areas, so basic precautions apply. The bigger challenge tends to be adapting to cultural differences and the tropical climate – not personal safety.
Things to Know Before You Move
If you’re preparing to teach English in Thailand, patience with paperwork will save you stress. A few small insights make a big difference:
Visas take patience – paperwork can be slow and confusing.
Healthcare – private hospitals are excellent, but insurance is vital.
Weather – hot, humid, with a rainy season (May–October).
Respect culture – remove shoes indoors, dress modestly at temples, and avoid confrontation.
Learning a few Thai phrases and downloading apps like LINE (Thailand’s WhatsApp) will also make daily life smoother.
Final Thoughts
Teaching English in Thailand is more than just a job — it’s an adventure, a lifestyle, and a chance to start fresh. From the affordable cost of living to the chance to explore Southeast Asia, the rewards are huge.
Yes, it can feel daunting at first – but with the right preparation, it’s absolutely doable.
If you’re serious about making the move to teach English in Thailand, the best time to start preparing is now. Whether you’re figuring out the visa process, looking for your first job, or planning your relocation budget, I can help point you in the right direction.
If Have questions about teaching or moving abroad? Get in touch with me here and let’s chat about your travel and teaching goals.
And don’t forget -my Thailand Relocation Guide is available in my STAN store with all the step-by-step details you’ll need to make your move smooth and stress-free.
FAQs About Teaching English in Thailand
Do I need a degree to teach English in Thailand?
Yes, most schools require a bachelor’s degree in any subject. Some tutoring or online roles may not, but for a legal work visa, a degree is essential.
How much do English teachers get paid in Thailand?
Most teachers earn between 30,000–45,000 baht per month (£700–£1,000). Salaries vary by location, school type, and experience.
Do I need teaching experience to get a job?
No – many first-time teachers start in Thailand. A TEFL certificate and willingness to learn are usually enough to get your first role.
Is Thailand safe for solo female teachers?
Yes, Thailand is one of the safer countries in Asia. Common sense applies, but most female teachers report feeling safe and supported.
Where should I live as a first-time teacher in Thailand?
Bangkok and Chiang Mai are popular starting points due to job availability and strong expat communities. Smaller towns offer more immersion but fewer Western comforts.