Teaching English in Thailand is one of the most accessible ways for UK graduates to live and work abroad. The process is well-established, the demand for English teachers is high, and the rewards are significant. This guide walks you through exactly how to get from ‘thinking about it’ to standing in front of your first class.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility:
Confirm you hold a passport from the UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, Australia or New Zealand; a bachelor’s degree in any subject; are aged 21–45; and have no criminal record. Non-native English speakers may also be considered with strong proficiency and a TEFL certificate. If you are uncertain about any requirement, contact us before applying.
Step 2: Get Your TEFL Certificate:
A minimum 120-hour accredited TEFL is required by the vast majority of Thai schools. If you apply through our Paid Placement programme, the TEFL is included in the fee. The course is completed online at your own pace — typically four to six weeks. If you already hold a 120-hour TEFL from an accredited provider, you will receive a £79 discount on the programme fee.
Step 3: Apply to the Program:
Submit your application through the Teaching in Thailand website. We will review it, confirm eligibility and arrange a call with our team to walk you through the full process. You will confirm which package suits you. Choose between Paid Placement (£799, includes TEFL) or Paid Placement with Travel Arrangements (£849, adds ticket and transport assistance).
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents:
We provide a complete checklist. We guide you through: original degree certificate plus notarised copy. Allow 5–12 weeks for processing. You need an Enhanced DBS criminal record check valid for 12+ months. A passport with 6+ months’ validity is required. Also, provide a medical certificate if required. We walk alongside you through every document — nothing gets missed.
Step 5: Apply for Your Non-Immigrant B Visa
Applied for at the Royal Thai Embassy in London before you depart. Current fee for UK passport holders is approximately £60. You cannot legally work in Thailand without this visa. We provide detailed written guidance on the application process. This includes exactly which documents to submit. It also guides you on how to book your embassy appointment.
Step 6: Complete Your Online Orientation
Before you travel, complete an online orientation. It covers Thai culture, classroom expectations, day-to-day life, and practical information about your placement location. This means you arrive prepared rather than overwhelmed.
Step 7: Travel to Thailand and Meet Your School.
Most government school placements begin in May. This marks the start of the Thai academic year. Alternatively, placements may also begin in November, aligned with the second semester. We provide full guidance on flights, transport and your first days in country. Your school will assist with the work permit process on arrival, and we remain contactable throughout your placement.
Step 8: Teach, Travel and Make the Most of It!! You are in Thailand.
The weekends are yours. You have a salary and a network of fellow teachers. You are in one of the most welcoming countries in the world. Many graduates extend for a second semester or use Thailand as a springboard to teach across Southeast Asia.
What Does the Full Process Cost?
- Teaching in Thailand programme fee: £799 (includes TEFL).
- Non-Immigrant B Visa: approx. £60.
- DBS check: approx. £23.
- Degree notarisation: approx. £50–£100.
- Flights: approx. £400–£600.
- Total investment to start: approximately £1,350–£1,600 before your first salary. Most teachers recover this within their first two months of teaching.
Ready to Start?
Book a free consultation call with us to confirm your eligibility or apply using our application form. We are here to answer every question and give you an honest picture of what to expect. No commitments and no pressure.