Best Destinations For Older TEFL Teachers

Picture this: you’ve made the decision to teach abroad and must now choose your desired location. 

How exciting! 

But what are the best destinations for older TEFL teachers? Let’s break it down.

A mature TEFL teacher’s priorities might look a little different from those of younger teachers who may be seeking adventure over stability. You’re likely looking for a destination that offers long-term opportunities, a comfortable lifestyle, convenient and reliable public transport, access to affordable healthcare and a hassle-free daily routine. 

Some locations are not ideal for older teachers. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. There are still plenty of choices!

Latin America, the European Union, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Asia are all welcoming to older teachers. Add to that the rise in online teaching, and your TEFL prospects are as good as ever.

Work permit and visa age restrictions

Am I too old to teach English abroad?

We hear that question often – and the answer is, in a nutshell, NO!

But we need to keep in mind that there are still restrictions around visas and work permits with regard to age, particularly retirement age. These vary from country to country.

The best TEFL destinations for older teachers

Let’s get right to it. Here’s where you should be packing your bags and jetting off to as an older teacher.

Asia

Asia has quite a young retirement age, typically between 55 and 60, making it a better fit for teachers in the 40 to 55 age range.

Japan has particularly good options for those over 40. They hire experienced staff for university positions. 

In 2019, China increased the teaching age limit to 65 for Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, which is great news! 

South Korea is trickier to get into because parents prefer younger teachers, regardless of education and/or experience. Teachers in their early 40s may still have a shot but, as awful as it is, ageism is a reality there. Nevertheless, don’t rule out Korea as an option as there are exceptions. 

[TTA alumna Wendy taught in Nepal in 2019.]

Read more: Teach English In Asia

European Union

The EU has laws against age discrimination, meaning teachers of all ages are welcome. Boom! This makes it an easier route into TEFL for mature teachers compared to regions like Asia. 

[In fact, TTA alumna Lucia (56) is happily teaching in Potenza, Italy, and Sandra is in Spain]

However, there are some important considerations based on whether you’re an EU or non-EU citizen. Benefits and services like healthcare and pension may not be included in your teaching package. Government programmes typically offer better benefits, but if you’re savvy with financial planning and do your research you will manage just fine. Make sure you have enough savings as a safety net.

A chunk of the EU adult population have mastered their English-speaking skills thanks to global demand. While this means the demand for General English may be lower here than in other places, this means that there is plenty of opportunity to teach Business English. Adult students will relate better to older teachers who can offer a more personalised approach. 

Read more: How To Teach English To Adults

Germany is popular among the 40+ crowd because you can apply for a Job Seeker Visa  to work and live there for six months until you find a job (if you satisfy certain requirements). This provides a good measure of stability – perfect for the older teacher. 

Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is an ideal TEFL destination for older teachers since they have no problem hiring retirees. That’s right. If you’re 60+ years old you are more than welcome. You can find private teaching jobs or work at a language school. 

The Czech Republic stands out in particular.

Prague in the Czech Republic offers peace of mind since it is among the safest cities in Europe. Freelance and part-time roles and a preference for experience makes it a great choice for older teachers looking to supplement their income or enjoy semi-retirement while teaching. 

Read more:  Teach English in Europe

Latin America

Latin America offers an easy lifestyle and retirement potential that many older teachers find attractive. The laidback lifestyle, sunny weather, and tropical paradise make every day feel like a getaway, which doesn’t sound too shabby, does it?

Mexico, Nicaragua, and Ecuador stand out for their affordable living and easy paths to residency making them ideal for teaching and settling down after. 

Read more: Teach English in South America

The Middle East

The Middle East provides comfort and safety in secure compounds or gated communities. It’s perfect for the teacher who has a family in tow or who prefers a family-oriented and conservative lifestyle. Of course, the incredible packages with lucrative salaries and amazing benefits like free housing, health insurance, flights and, in some cases, education allowances, is hard to overlook! 

If you have advanced qualifications like a Master’s degree plus a teaching license you should find a job here easily provided you’re under 60. 

Read more: Teach English in the Middle East

So, can older people teach TEFL?

Absolutely! But you’ll need a good TEFL qualification, which is exactly what we can offer you! Check out our TEFL courses and contact us if you’d like any more information.

[Psst! If you’re not convinced, you should read this!]

And there you have it: proof that age is just a number in the TEFL world!