5 Countries That Are Hiring ESL Teachers Right Now – And Why Cambodia Tops the List

Thinking about teaching English abroad? With global demand for ESL teachers at an all-time high, now is the perfect time to start your TEFL journey. But where should you go? 🌍

Some countries are making it easier than ever for qualified English teachers to land jobs quickly—with great salaries, vibrant cultures, and exciting opportunities for career growth. And at the top of the list? Cambodia!

But here’s the best part: With Destination TEFL’s unique “2 Countries, 1 Program” option, you can train in Cambodia, experience Cambodian culture, and then secure job placement in any of these countries! 🌏✨

💡 Placement is subject to passing our observed teacher practice and meeting the general eligibility criteria for each country.

Read on to discover five of the hottest destinations for ESL teachers in 2025—and why Cambodia is leading the pack.

1. Cambodia 🇰🇭 – The Best Place to Launch Your ESL Career

Why Cambodia?

Cambodia is the perfect country for teachers who want a fast track to employment with minimal barriers to entry. Unlike other countries that require a degree, Cambodia is one of the few places where you can start teaching with just a TEFL certificate and a passion for education.

✅ High demand for English teachers – Schools are actively hiring year-round.
✅ No degree required – If you’re TEFL-certified, you’re eligible!
✅ Affordable cost of living – Live comfortably and still save money.
✅ Job placement assistance – Get hired fast with Destination TEFL!
✅ A growing ESL industry – More schools are opening, increasing demand for teachers.

With Destination TEFL’s 2 Countries, 1 Program option, you can complete your TEFL training in Cambodia and then transfer to a job in another country—like Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, or South Korea!

🌟 Insider Tip: The cost of living is incredibly low, meaning your salary goes a long way. Many teachers save money while enjoying weekend getaways to stunning destinations like Angkor Wat, Koh Rong, or even neighboring Thailand and Vietnam!

2. Indonesia 🇮🇩 – A Thriving ESL Market with Endless Opportunities

Why Indonesia?

Indonesia is one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing ESL job markets, offering excellent opportunities for teachers looking for stable, well-paid positions in private language centers and international schools.

✅ More than 100 language centers hiring ESL teachers
✅ Degree required, but no previous teaching experience needed
✅ Vibrant culture and beautiful destinations
✅ Competitive salary with benefits like housing & visa support

Destination TEFL has partnered with English 1 (formerly English First), making it easier than ever for our TEFL graduates to land high-quality teaching jobs across Indonesia. With over 100 language centers, English 1 provides fantastic support for new teachers, helping them settle into their new roles with confidence.

🚀 Train in Cambodia & Get Hired in Indonesia!

🌟 Insider Tip: If you’re looking for a balance between city life, cultural immersion, and natural beauty, Indonesia has it all. Teach in bustling Jakarta, laid-back Bali, or historic Yogyakarta, and explore stunning beaches, volcanoes, and ancient temples on your days off!

3. Vietnam 🇻🇳 – One of the Best Salaries in Asia for ESL Teachers

Why Vietnam?

Vietnam has one of the highest ESL teacher salaries in Southeast Asia, making it a top choice for teachers who want to save money while enjoying a fast-paced, exciting lifestyle.

✅ Average salary: $1,200 – $2,000 per month
✅ Job opportunities in public schools, private centers & international schools
✅ Growing demand for native and non-native English teachers
✅ Bustling cities + beautiful countryside

**Degree required, but no previous teaching experience needed

🚀 Train in Cambodia & Get Hired in Vietnam!

🌟 Insider Tip: Vietnam has a huge expat community, so you’ll never feel alone. From lively street markets to breathtaking Ha Long Bay, this country offers the perfect work-life balance!

4. Thailand 🇹🇭 – A Longtime Favorite for ESL Teachers

Why Thailand?

Thailand has been one of the most popular destinations for ESL teachers for decades, and for good reason! It’s a great option for first-time teachers looking for structured placements, friendly work environments, and stunning travel opportunities.

✅ Teaching jobs available year-round
✅ Degree required, but teaching experience is not always necessary
✅ One of the best places for work-life balance
✅ Amazing travel destinations, from Bangkok to Phuket to Chiang Mai

🚀 Train in Cambodia & Get Hired in Thailand!

🌟 Insider Tip: If you love beaches, temples, and delicious food, Thailand is calling your name!

5. South Korea 🇰🇷 – High Salaries & Excellent Benefits

Why South Korea?

If you’re looking for a high-paying, structured ESL job with excellent benefits, South Korea is a great option. Many ESL teachers here work in hagwons (private academies) or public schools and enjoy structured contracts with paid holidays, housing, and bonuses.

✅ One of the highest-paying ESL destinations ($2,000 – $3,000/month)
✅ Free housing & airfare reimbursement for many positions
✅ K-pop, tech, and rich cultural experiences
✅ A great place to build a long-term ESL career

**Degree required, but no previous teaching experience needed

🚀 Train in Cambodia & Get Hired in South Korea!

🌟 Insider Tip: South Korea is fast-paced and ultra-modern, making it perfect for teachers who love city life. The country also has four distinct seasons, so you can experience everything from cherry blossoms in the spring to ski trips in the winter!

Final Thoughts: Why Cambodia Tops the List

While all five countries offer fantastic teaching opportunities, Cambodia stands out as the best option for those wanting to start their teaching career quickly and easily. With:

✅ No degree requirement
✅ Fast job placement
✅ A growing ESL market
✅ A rich cultural experience

… it’s the perfect launchpad for your ESL journey.

🚀 With our “2 Countries, 1 Program” option, you can train in Cambodia and then get placement in any of these exciting destinations!

👉 Apply for our next TEFL course in Siem Reap and let’s get you certified, experienced, and placed in your dream teaching job!

📖 Not ready to commit? Download our FREE guide: DOWNLOAD HERE

💬 What’s your dream TEFL destination? Drop a comment below!

#TEFLAdventure #TeachAbroad #TEFLCertification #ESLJobs #TeachingAbroad #TravelAndTeach #WorkAndTravel #TEFLJobs #TEFLIndonesia #TEFLCambodia #ESLteacher