Teaching English in Vietnam changed my life. After 12 years of TEFL experience, including extensive time motorbiking through Hanoi’s bustling streets to language centers, I’m sharing everything you need to know about teaching English in Vietnam in 2025. From exact salary figures to daily classroom challenges, this guide leaves no stone unturned.
Table of Contents:
- Quick Facts About Teaching in Vietnam
- Salary and Cost Breakdown
- Legal Requirements
- Finding Jobs
- Daily Teaching Life
- Living in Vietnam
- Pros and Cons
- FAQs
- Quick Facts About Teaching in Vietnam: • Average Salary: $1,500-$2,000 per month • Teaching Hours: 20-25 hours per week • Cost of Living: $700-$1,000 per month • Best Cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang • Peak Hiring Seasons: August and January
- Salary and Cost Breakdown
Monthly Income (Based on Real 2025 Figures):
• Language Centers: $20-25 per hour
• International Schools: $2,000-$3,000 per month
• Public Schools: $1,500-$1,800 per month
• Online Teaching: $15-20 per hour
Monthly Expenses in Hanoi (2025 Prices):
• Rent (Modern 1-bedroom): $400-500
• Utilities: $50-70 • Food: $200-300
• Transportation: $50-100
• Entertainment: $100-200
• Savings Potential: $500-800
Legal Requirements
Essential Documents:
• Bachelor’s Degree (any field)
• TEFL Certificate (minimum 120 hours)
• Criminal Background Check
• Passport with at least 12 months validity
• Work Permit (employer typically assists)
Pro Tip: Get your documents authenticated before arriving in Vietnam. I learned this the hard way and spent weeks sorting out paperwork!
Finding Jobs
Legitimate Employers in 2025:
• Language Centers: Apollo, ILA, VUS
• Online Platforms: The Really Great Teacher Company ($15/hour)
• International Schools: British International School, UNIS
• Public Schools: Through EMG Education
Application Process:
- Prepare your documents
- Apply online or through recruitment agencies
- Complete video or in-person interview
- Sign contract
- Begin work permit process
- Daily Teaching Life
Typical Schedule:
• Weekday Mornings: 8:00-11:30
• Weekday Evenings: 17:30-20:30
• Weekends: Split shifts common
Class Sizes:
• Language Centers: 10-15 students
• Public Schools: 30-40 students
• International Schools: 15-20 students
Teaching Expectations:
• Lesson Planning: 30-60 minutes per lesson
• Student Age Groups: Mainly young learners
• Teaching Methods: Communicative approach
• Materials: Usually provided by schools
Living in Vietnam
Housing:
• Types: Modern apartments, traditional houses
• Areas: Tay Ho (Hanoi), District 2 (HCMC)
• Finding Accommodation: Facebook groups, agents
Transportation:
• Motorbike Rental: $50-70/month
• Grab Bike: $1-2 per ride
• Taxi: Available and affordable
Healthcare:
• International Hospitals: Available in major cities
• Insurance: Usually provided by employers
• Local Clinics: Affordable and accessible
Pros and Cons
Pros: ✓ High saving potential ✓ Rich cultural experience ✓ Growing job market ✓ Low cost of living ✓ Friendly locals ✓ Amazing food
Cons: × Air pollution in major cities × Traffic congestion × Language barrier × Bureaucratic challenges × Hot, humid weather
FAQs
Q: Do I need to speak Vietnamese?
A: No, but learning basics helps tremendously.
Q: Is it safe?
A: Yes, Vietnam is generally very safe for foreigners.
Q: Can I find jobs after arriving?
A: Yes, but securing work before arrival is recommended.
For more information about teaching English abroad, check out my book:
tefltravelling 