Latin America is a vast region that encompasses 20 countries, each with its own unique cultural identity, history, and traditions.
Rich natural environment
In Latin America, natural environments are remarkable, making this area one of the most ecologically varied regions on the planet.One of the wonders of the natural world that you can find in Latin America is the Amazon rainforest. Classed as the “lungs of the Earth,” it spreads across multiple countries, including Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and beyond, hosting an unparalleled richness of biodiversity.
Meanwhile, the Andes Mountains, the world’s longest mountain range, traverse through Peru, Chile, Ecuador, Colombia, and Argentina, shaping not only incredible landscapes but also influencing the climate and ecosystems of the entire region. Nestled in Chile, the Atacama Desert stands as one of the driest places on the planet, showcasing remarkable features such as salt flats and towering sand dunes.
Off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands weave a narrative of evolution, their unique and diverse wildlife having inspired Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking theories. Together, these natural wonders form a mosaic of ecosystems that define the unparalleled beauty of Latin America.
Unique cultural identity
In Latin America, there are as many cultures as there are countries. The lifestyle in this beautiful part of the world reflects this, with a tapestry of individual and shared traditions, shaped by a fusion of indigenous, European, and African traditions, expressed through art, music, dance, and festive celebrations. As the birthplace of genres like salsa, tango, samba, and reggaeton, Latin America pulsates with the rhythm of life, where dance assumes a central role in social gatherings.
The passion for food and the culture of eating together are the evidence of local people’s hospitality, warmth, and friendliness that embrace visitors with open arms. Perhaps this is why so many long-term visitors, such as international teachers, fall in love with the place and find it hard to leave.
Living and teaching in Latin America
If Latin America sparks your imagination and awakens your wanderlust, you too might want to consider a career in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL). This is an opportunity that allows you to live and work in Latin America to enjoy and explore what this magical region has to offer.
Let’s dive right in and see how to teach English in Latin America.
Brazil
Numerous educators who have taken the leap before you have chosen Brazil as their new home, and they have found it to be the right choice. Depending on your country of origin, you may not require a visa for entry. Let’s explore why Brazil has become such a favoured destination for TEFL teachers.
The hosting of the World Cup in 2014 and the Olympic Games in 2016 provided a significant boost to Brazil’s economy, creating numerous job opportunities. Furthermore, the substantial influx of visitors during these events spurred local interest in learning English. It became evident that acquiring fluency in the global language of business would enhance career prospects and increase the likelihood of securing improved employment.
Teaching opportunities in Brazil
Presently, with a tourism industry experiencing continuous growth, a thriving petroleum sector, and overall industrial development, Brazil stands as a country with a consistent demand for TEFL teachers. Salaries in the TEFL sector vary depending on location, and the cost of living mirrors this. Major cities like Rio and Sao Paulo, while more expensive, offer higher salaries due to increased job opportunities in numerous private language schools.
For those interested in traditional classroom teaching, securing a position at a private language school is the most direct route. Several language school franchises, such as Brasas and Cultura Inglesa, are recognized for offering good working conditions. Additionally, independent language schools, especially prevalent in major cities, provide alternative teaching opportunities.
Alternatively, teaching private students is an option, affording greater control over your schedule and the freedom to choose the type and number of classes to teach. However, teaching privately may come with challenges such as short-notice cancellations and delayed payments.
Costa Rica
“Pura vida,” the guiding philosophy of Costa Rica, is the essence of this country’s lifestyle that embraces and savours the present moment, adopting a carefree, unhurried pace. It’s not just a saying – pura vida represents a genuine way of life for Costa Ricans, known as Ticos, who navigate their existence with simplicity and ease.
Despite the country’s stable economy and notable increases in Gross Domestic Product, the lingering challenge of high unemployment, particularly among older adults, has prompted Costa Ricans to seek a better quality of life by developing their English language skills. This is driven by the understanding that proficiency in English is crucial in various sectors such as technology, finance, tourism, and business, where international communication is paramount.
Teaching requirements in Costa Rica
For those aspiring to teach English in Costa Rica, a near-native proficiency level and a TEFL qualification are prerequisites. Typically, teaching positions in Central America necessitate an in-person interview, emphasising the importance of being present in the country.
Major cities like Cartago, Heredia, and the capital, San Jose, offer a plethora of teaching opportunities, with the best time to seek jobs for teaching children falling between October and December, coinciding with the conclusion of most teaching contracts. Conversely, opportunities to teach adults are available year-round.
Teaching opportunities in Costa Rica
As an English as a foreign language teacher, you have various options. Private language schools provide curriculum and teaching materials, offering business English courses for professionals. These classes are scheduled early in the morning or late in the evening. While classroom rules are often at the discretion of teachers, the overall work and classroom culture prioritise a smart-casual appearance.
University teaching positions, while highly sought after, demand teaching experience and the possession of a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL certificate. Volunteer teaching programs provide a chance to teach in primary and secondary schools, community centres, and orphanages.
Work visa in Costa Rica
Work visas in Costa Rica are initially valid for six months, renewable with approval from the immigration and work departments. The application process involves submitting various documents, such as birth certificates, passports, and qualifications, along with statements of good conduct from the police and background checks by the Ministry of Security.
Additionally, the Social Security office verifies financial standing before granting approval. Typically, your visa is sponsored by your employer. Being a costly investment on their part, the duration of your employment could affect your chances of being hired. Because of the laid-back nature of this country, expect lengthy and time-consuming paperwork processes. Take this into consideration when applying for your work visa.
Mexico
Mexico operates as a developing market with its economy predominantly centred on tourism and international trade. Consequently, proficiency in English is essential for conducting business across various sectors.
English education is incorporated into school curricula, and adults actively invest in learning the language to enhance their career prospects and overall quality of life. For this reason, the demand for TEFL teachers in Mexico is high, offering opportunities for new and experienced teachers, making it an attractive starting point for their career.
Teaching opportunities in Mexico
While English teacher salaries may seem modest, they are in line with the cost of living, which can be relatively inexpensive with careful financial management. Accommodation options range from renting a beautiful house in Mexico City for around €2,000 per month to sharing a stylish apartment for as little as €200.
TEFL job availability is prominent in urban areas, but Mexico also presents teaching opportunities in rural settings, which allows you to fully immerse yourself in Mexican culture. Similarly to other Latin American countries, remote or online job applications and interviews are not common in Mexico. Job searches are best conducted in person, with hard copies of CVs, and face-to-face interviews are the norm.
Teaching requirements in Mexico
Contrary to some countries, a degree is not mandatory for teaching English in Mexico, although it is preferred and may be required by certain institutions. For example, universities and some private schools may demand a bachelor’s degree as a minimum qualification. However, a degree is presently not obligatory for visa purposes.
To work legally in Mexico, an FM3 visa is necessary, and obtaining it for teaching English requires a TEFL certificate, ideally a 120-hour qualification from a reputable provider. Additionally, an offer of employment from a school, supported by an official letter on letterhead, is necessary.
Encouragingly, non-native English speakers proficient in all language skills can secure TEFL jobs in Mexico, although the competition may be more intense.
The Latin American Dream
Stunning landscapes, glorious food, and welcoming hospitality are the main features of Latin American countries – what more could you ask for? This vibrant and enchanting part of the world could be just the right place to propel yourself into a successful and fulfilling TEFL career.
