With many countries across the globe recognizing the economic benefits of digital nomad visas, it is now more feasible than ever to teach English online and travel.
Where you choose to go will depend entirely on your interests, as well as the varying visa requirements of every country, so research is your friend when considering this lifestyle.
How you go about teaching English online without a degree is something you will also need to consider.
Many companies do not require teachers to have a degree, including Cambly, Preply, and Latin Hire – though teachers are expected to have a basic level of Spanish or Portuguese for the latter.
Alternatively, you can look into setting up your own business, and building your clientele before heading off to see the world.
Regardless of how you get started, these 10 places to teach English online without a degree are ones you’ll want to consider:
Italy
With so many incredible regions to choose from, Italy is a great pick, promising something for everyone – from arancini and quaint coastal villages in Sicily to bacaro tours and the Venice Biennale.
To be eligible for the digital nomad visa, you’ll need to be able to prove that you’ve been teaching online for a reasonable amount of time and that you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay.
The visa itself is valid for a year, with the option to eventually renew it.
Portugal
Known for its mild winters and hot summers, as well as being one of Europe’s hotspots for surfing, Portugal is a solid choice for online teachers looking for a relaxing life along the coast.
While there isn’t an official digital nomad visa, teachers can choose between applying for a Temporary Stay visa or a Residency visa.
The former is ideal for those passing through, with no interest in securing permanent residency, and is valid for a year.
Indonesia
Indonesia is already an extremely popular destination for remote workers, full of coworking spaces and cafes.
As a result, a formal digital nomad visa is in the works, with more details to come, though it is expected to be valid for 5 years.
In the meantime, other options include the visa on arrival, which costs $35, valid for 30 days, with the option to extend it, or the Business visa, which costs $100 and permits a stay of 60 days, which can be extended up to 6 months.
Japan
With many international, ex-pat-friendly cities such as Tokyo and Kyoko, Japan draws workers from all over the world.
As far as online English teaching goes, there is no specific visa for digital nomads as yet, and the working visa for teachers, unfortunately, requires the applicant to have a university degree.
That being said, you can still potentially teach using a working holiday visa, student visa, or even a spouse visa. For more information check out TEFL.Org’s page about Japan at the original link here.
Mexico
Mexico is the most popular destination for ex-pats hailing from North America, thanks in part to its stunning natural attractions, lower cost of living, and excellent, affordable healthcare.
Although there isn’t a visa dedicated to digital nomads, Mexico’s Temporary Resident visa is aimed at remote workers.
Bear in mind that you can’t work for any Mexican companies with this visa, and your income needs to come from outside of the country, so arriving with an already-established clientele is a good idea.
Spain
Aware of the appeal of a slower pace of life and the famed Mediterranean diet, Spain is planning to launch a new visa for digital nomads to attract foreign workers from all over the globe and establish itself as an international business hub.
And if you’re an EU passport holder, there’s no need to wait! You can work remotely in Spain for less than 6 months without having to register.
Remember to brush up on your Spanish before you arrive as many Spaniards don’t speak English.
South Korea
Despite South Korea’s bustling cities, like Seoul, and stunning landscapes on its largest island, Jeju Island, the country is struggling with a decrease in tourism.
That’s partially why, to try and resolve this issue, South Korea announced plans for a digital nomad visa in 2021.
The visa is intended to attract foreign IT specialists as well as remote workers in general.
For online English teachers looking to settle down, South Korea also offers a self-employment visa which encourages foreign entrepreneurs to set up and base their businesses there.
Greece
Home to over 6,000 islands and known for its welcoming people as well as historical and cultural heritage, Greece is already a well established location for digital nomads.
The digital nomad visa is valid for 1 year and can be extended, though you will need to prove that you earn over $3,500 a month to be eligible for it.
Favored cities for remote workers include Athens and Thessaloniki, since they are well-connected to the rest of Europe.
Germany
As one of the most LBGTQIA + friendly countries in Europe, as well as being the largest European economy, Germany is an excellent choice for online English teachers passing through.
Its digital nomad visa is only valid for 1 year and is aimed at those working in certain liberal professions, including teaching.
Popular cities for ex-pats in Germany include Cologne and Leipzig, which are both considered to be extremely liveable, affordable cities, with a monthly rent average of around $893.
Vietnam
Bordering China, Laos, and Cambodia, Vietnam is an ideal destination for online English teachers looking to explore Southeast Asia.
The digital nomad visa for Vietnam is only valid for 30 days, maximum, and you can apply online, on arrival, or at your embassy.
Thanks to the low cost of living, ex-pats can expect to live comfortably on around $800 per month, even in a metropolis like Ho Chi Minh City.
The country also boasts fast internet and lots of coffee shops with free Wi-Fi, making it a haven for remote workers.
Overall, wherever you choose to go, if you’re planning on teaching English online without a degree, you’ll want to do your research.
Much like no two cultures are the same, visa requirements to work remotely can vary greatly from country to country.
But once you’ve planned your digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll be ready to experience the best the world has to offer while working online!