Your questions, answered

For most full-time jobs at formal schools, yes. A bachelor's degree in any subject is normally required for the work permit. Without a degree, opportunities are limited to some language schools, online teaching or other countries in the region.

No. Most new teachers in Thailand have never taught before. A quality 120-hour TEFL course with observed teaching practice gives you the skills and confidence to start.

No. Native speakers are in high demand, but proficient non-native speakers with a good TEFL certificate also find work, particularly at government and language schools.

Many reputable employers prefer an on-site course with observed teaching practice. Training in Thailand also lets you interview in person and build local contacts.

Most new teachers earn between ฿30,000 and ฿45,000 per month, with Bangkok and private or bilingual schools paying more. International schools pay considerably more for licensed teachers.

Yes. Many teachers live comfortably on ฿20,000–30,000 a month, especially outside Bangkok, leaving room to save or travel.

You can arrive visa-free or on a tourist visa for your TEFL course. Once hired, your school sponsors a Non-Immigrant B visa and work permit.

TEFL courses usually have no upper age limit. Some schools and government programmes prefer teachers under 60 due to work permit and insurance rules.

Schools hire most in April–May and October–November, ahead of each semester. Plan to finish your TEFL course just before one of these windows.

Good TEFL centres offer job placement support, school contacts and interview preparation, and some offer a job guarantee for eligible graduates.

Thailand is generally a safe, welcoming country for foreigners. As anywhere, use common sense, get travel insurance and respect local laws and customs.

No. You'll teach in English. Learning some basic Thai will make daily life easier and more fun, and many TEFL courses include Thai lessons.