Teach English in Thailand vs Taiwan
Thailand and Taiwan are two popular destinations for English teachers in Asia. Both offer strong demand for foreign teachers, but the job markets, salaries, and lifestyle can differ significantly.
Teachers considering Asia often compare teaching English in Thailand with teaching English in Taiwan. Both countries are welcoming to foreign teachers and offer unique cultural experiences alongside professional teaching opportunities.
Thailand is widely known for its relaxed lifestyle, warm climate, and accessibility for teachers starting their careers. Taiwan, on the other hand, is often recognized for its well-organized education system and higher salaries for English teachers.
Many teachers preparing to work in Asia begin by completing a TEFL certification in Bangkok. This allows them to gain practical classroom experience before applying for jobs in countries such as Thailand, Taiwan, or elsewhere in the region.
Job Opportunities
Thailand has one of the largest English teaching markets in Southeast Asia. Teachers work in government schools, private schools, bilingual programs, international schools, and language centers throughout the country.
Taiwan also offers a strong job market, particularly in private language schools known as buxibans. These schools hire many foreign teachers to teach children and young learners.
Teachers looking for a structured system with strong demand may find Taiwan appealing, while Thailand provides greater diversity in school environments and locations.
Entry Requirements
Both Thailand and Taiwan generally require teachers to hold a university degree in order to obtain a legal work visa. A TEFL certification is also commonly preferred by schools in both countries.
Taiwan’s visa system is typically employer-sponsored, meaning that teachers secure a job first and then receive their work permit and residency visa through the school.
Thailand’s work permit process can vary depending on the school and location, but many teachers find the country relatively accessible when beginning their teaching career abroad.
Salary and Cost of Living
Teachers in Thailand typically earn between 30,000 and 60,000 THB per month depending on the type of school and location.
Salaries in Taiwan are generally higher, often ranging between 60,000 and 90,000 TWD per month depending on experience and the number of teaching hours.
Taiwan’s cost of living can also be higher, particularly in cities like Taipei, though many teachers are still able to save money depending on their lifestyle.
Lifestyle and Environment
Thailand offers a tropical climate, incredible food culture, and a relaxed pace of life that attracts teachers from around the world. Popular destinations include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya.
Taiwan offers modern cities, efficient transportation, and a strong blend of Chinese cultural heritage and contemporary East Asian society.
Teachers deciding between the two often consider whether they prefer a tropical Southeast Asian lifestyle or the modern urban environment found in Taiwanese cities.
Where Should You Take Your TEFL Course?
Many teachers planning to work in Asia choose to complete their TEFL training in Bangkok before applying for jobs in countries such as Thailand, Taiwan, Vietnam, or China.
Bangkok provides access to a large education market where trainees can gain real classroom experience during their TEFL course, helping them develop confidence before entering the international teaching job market.
Learn more about our TEFL course in Bangkok.
Learn More About Each Destination
Explore our complete guides to learn more about teaching English in each country.
Start Your Teaching Journey in Asia
A practical TEFL course with classroom experience can help you begin your teaching career anywhere in Asia.
Explore the TEFL Course in Bangkok