Teaching English in South America

Native English Speaker? Or an English Language teacher? If you’re, then you have a good and thrilling opportunity waiting in the South American countries. All of the South American countries except Brazil use Spanish as their official language. Apart from Spanish, these countries use English extensively. They have a good number of schools where they teach English. Some universities have their English language programs. But the number of English teachers is not big. Hence, there lies the opportunity for English teachers. Many institutions employ foreign English teachers regularly.

Some universities use English as medium of instruction. So, they recruit teachers preferably from English speaking countries. Because, in that case they like their students learn English in the English way with correct pronunciation and accuracy. Other schools employ English teachers with good command in English. English teachers from any countries may apply for the posts. But they have to show their competency. To show the competency, "TESL" or "TESOL" certification is always wanted. So, if you’re from such a country where English is not a native language, you should receive any of these certifications for applying the posts. Sometimes, some foreigners apply online whereas others go the institutions and apply personally.

The institutions offer a good salary for the English teachers. If you work there, you’ve the opportunity to open a private English Learning center where you may offer English Language course and Spoken English course. Remember, you must have some knowledge of speaking Spanish.

Anyway, if you travel with a tourist visa and wish to work as a teacher, you have to contact the immigration office for the issuance of residence visa. You may take assistance from any competent solicitor for the purpose. For residence visa, normally you need to obtain the job letter from the respective institution. Then you need medical certificate, character certificate, Interpol certificate, Police certificate, residence proof, etc. The process of obtaining residence visas differ from country to country. So, you should collect updated information personally or from the websites of The Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

If you are interested to teach without any payment, you may contact the voluntary group working in South American countries. UK bases ‘Project Abroad’ is such an institution where you may collect sufficient information, http://www.projects-abroad.co.uk/. They help the teachers in all respects. They also assist getting necessary visas for the applicants.

Life in South America is very peaceful and calm. People are helpful and hospitable. They are always eager to know and speak English. So, if you’re really interested you need to teach them that “Good Morning” means “Bueno Dias”, “Thank You” means “Gracias”. You’re bound to have fun with your new Latin American learners.