How to Find a Paid Job Teaching English in Latin America

Teaching abroad can be a career-boosting and soul nourishing adventure. However, it’s hard to know where to start. While Asia and Europe have a range of alluring destinations for aspiring teachers, so do Latin American countries. 

But before you apply for TEFL jobs in Latin America, you’ll first need to understand factors such as timing your application with hiring seasons, where to find jobs, salary and requirements, and more.

Whether you’re considering north, central, or South America, read on to find out how you can find a paid job teaching English in Latin America!

From finding a new career path, inspiring the next generation, and meeting new people from other cultures around the world, teaching English abroad in Latin America yields a range of benefits. 

• Gain insight into Latin heritage: From the Day of the Dead to the Rio Carnival, teaching abroad in Latin America allows you to integrate into unique cultural celebrations and traditions. While Latin American culture varies from one country to another, it’s often artistic, vibrant, and family-oriented.
• Embrace natural landmarks: Latin American countries are home to many of the world’s most iconic landmarks, such as Machu Picchu and Vinicunca in Peru, Argentina and Chile’s Patagonia, Mexico’s Chichén Itzá, and more. While teaching in Latin America, you can spend your weekends visiting awe-inspiring man-made and natural attractions.
• Gain international experience: Teaching English abroad in Latin American countries allows you to enhance your resume and develop a global perspective. From impressing employers with international work experience to developing your cultural adaptability, and communication skills, teaching abroad yields a myriad of lasting benefits.
• Learn a second language: When teaching in a Latin American country, you have the unique opportunity to learn a new language. Whether it’s Spanish or Portuguese, the constant exposure to a language can greatly accelerate your language learning goals. 

Whether you’re finishing college, taking a gap year, or considering new adventures, the region offers a range of experiences, from teaching in bustling cities and historic towns to coastal communities and mountain villages.

Start by exploring this list of popular countries:

• Mexico: An affordable option for first-time teachers, as it has close proximity to the U.S., making travel easier and affordable, low cost of living, and a high demand for English teachers.
• Costa Rica: Popular for TEFL teachers seeking beachside living and a relaxed, pura vida lifestyle.
• Chile: Competitive pay, modern cities, and rich cultural experiences.
• Colombia: Growing English programs, supportive expat communities, and exciting city life.
• Peru: Plenty of opportunities to teach English in a range of cities and smaller towns, from Lima’s urban schools to Andean communities.
• Brazil: South America’s largest country, boasting of bountiful rainforests, idyllic coastlines, and vibrant neighborhoods. 

When searching for a teaching English job in Latin America or any country, you’ll need to research ahead of time to maximize your chances. 

Here’s how you can plan ahead and ensure that you’re ready to teach abroad:  

• Understand the requirements for teaching in Latin America: Don’t waste time by applying for positions you’re not qualified for. Generally, to teach English in Latin America you’ll need a TEFL certificate, university degree, near-native English proficiency, and a clean criminal background. While it is possible to teach abroad without a degree or as a non-native English speaker, opportunities will be fewer.
• Check for hiring seasons: Peak “hiring season” for English teachers will vary by country. While Costa Rica and Peru’s peak hiring happens in January, this is Chile’s summer vacation, and thus a quiet time. Once you know the hiring seasons in each country, you can time your applications appropriately. However, you can still find opportunities year-round.
• Understand the visa application and timeline: Each country has different visa requirements and processing times; essential documents typically include your passport, application, background check, and employment contract. Your employer will typically help you with your visa application.
• Research the TEFL market: Demand for English teachers isn’t the same everywhere. Mexico has a consistently strong TEFL market due to its proximity to the U.S., while Brazil often seeks teachers to support tourism and business growth. Less developed countries like Venezuela or Paraguay may offer lower salaries.

Read more: How to Get a Work Visa for Teaching English Abroad

While not always a legal requirement, getting TEFL certified will greatly improve your chances of finding your dream job teaching English in Latin America. 

Although teaching English abroad is a niche industry, most of the teachers in this industry either possess teaching licenses or a TEFL or CELTA, and going without one could leave you behind.

You can become TEFL certified by taking an online or an in-person course. Online TEFL courses are often self-paced, but can also come with live teaching practice online. In-person TEFL courses will likely cost more, but will grant you greater levels of teaching practice and feedback. In fact, you can even take your TEFL training in Latin America! This may be preferable for teachers who want to apply in-person. 

Read more: CELTA vs TEFL: Which certificate do you need?

Latin America spans a huge geographic area, from Mexico in North America, through Central America and the Caribbean, down to Argentina and Chile in South America. There’s no single “best” country to teach English in Latin America–it just depends on  what you want from your teaching abroad experience. 

Whether you’re drawn to Mexico, Costa Rica, Brazil, Argentina, or somewhere in between, here are the key factors to consider:

• Climate: From Mexico’s deserts and coasts to Costa Rica’s tropical rainforests and volcanos, and Argentina’s highlands and Patagonian cold, knowing your climate preferences can help narrow your search.
• Culture: Each country has a distinct identity. While Mexico showcases deep Indigenous heritage, Argentina leans more European. Brazil is one of the most ethnically and religiously diverse nations in the region while Paraguay stands out for its bilingual and Indigenous linguistic traditions. Understanding these differences can help you find a cultural fit.
• Language goals: Decide between learning Spanish or Portuguese, as this alone can help shape your destination list. Many teachers improve their language skills quickly by staying with host families or immersing themselves in smaller, non-touristy cities.
• TEFL job availability: You’ll also need to take into consideration how likely you are to find a job in a specific location. Generally, countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Peru offer the best options for TEFL teachers in Latin America. 

Read more: How to Get Started Teaching English Abroad

Now that you’ve set your priorities, you need to know where to find paid TEFL jobs in Latin America, the different types of jobs, the requirements, and more. Considering these factors can help you break down your search into easier, more digestible steps. 

• Research school types: Generally, public schools in Latin America are best for entry-level TEFL teachers, while international schools typically hire experienced, certified educators and offer higher salaries and benefits. If you’re looking for short-term teaching roles, consider a summer camp!
• Understand salary expectations: While the average salary for teaching English in Latin America ranges from $700 to $1,300 USD per month, it depends on your experience, qualifications, school type and country.
• Find a teach abroad program: Teach abroad programs are great for inexperienced teachers who want pre-departure support, in-country orientation, and a built-in community of TEFL teachers. Many come with TEFL training and a guaranteed job placement. Teaching programs on GO are full of reviews and testimonials from previous teachers to help reinforce your decision!
• Use job boards: If you’d rather search for Latin America TEFL jobs independently, you can use job boards like Go Overseas’ global teaching job board! Independent job hunters get more freedom and may access higher-paying roles but it requires a much higher effort and patience when applying.

Once you’ve narrowed down your location and found the perfect opportunity, you can apply! Here’s how to improve your chances of a successful application and interview: 

• Apply online with your documents ready: Have a tailored resume, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, criminal background check, and any TEFL or teaching certificates ready to speed up the hiring process.
• Prepare for the interview: Some schools prefer to interview applicants in-person, whereas others will interview online. Research the school’s teaching philosophy, student demographics, and schedule. Ask how they support new teachers and handle visas. Be ready to discuss your experience with classroom management, lesson-planning, grammar, and your ability to adapt or improvise.
• Ask about the visa process: Most employers will assist you, but every Latin American country has its own requirements. Review the steps, fees, and timelines in advance to avoid delays once you’ve accepted the job. 

With so many countries and different processes, there’s much to consider about teaching in Latin America. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about teaching English in Latin America. 

Are English teachers in demand in South America?

Yes, English teachers are in demand in Latin America and South America. Many South American and Latin American countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico require English speakers to work at international businesses and in hospitality. 

Do I need a TEFL to teach in Latin America?

While not legally required, having a TEFL certificate boosts your employability and salary potential, as most English teachers in Latin America are certified.

What do you need to teach English in South America?

Generally, you’ll need a TEFL certificate, bachelor’s degree, and a clear criminal background to teach in South America and Latin American countries in general.

Can you teach English in Latin America without speaking the language?

Yes! You can teach English in Latin America without speaking Spanish or Portuguese. In fact, many schools want to maximize English immersion by hiring teachers who only speak English in the classroom. 

Can you teach English in Latin America without a degree? 

Yes, you can teach in Latin America without a degree, but having one will benefit your application. The most popular TEFL destinations for non-degree holders in Latin America include Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Mexico, Colombia, and Peru.

How much do English teachers get paid in South America?

The salary for teaching English in South America and Latin American countries ranges from $700 to $1,300 USD per month depending on your experience, qualifications, and not only the country but the type of school. 

Teaching English in Latin America can be a life changing experience. From the friends you’ll make, festivals you’ll observe, and the iconic landmarks that you’ll see, you’ll be able to expand your perspective in a thriving and unique culture. When it comes to looking for jobs, ensure that you’re TEFL certified, have prepared your essential documents, and research ahead of time to ensure that your search aligns the hiring seasons.

Read more about teaching abroad in Latin America: 

• The 10 Best Teach Abroad Programs for New Graduates
• Requirements to Teach English Abroad
• The Best 160+ Hour TEFL Certification Courses