The Cost of Moving Overseas

One final step before starting you overseas adventure is calculating the cost of getting there. To find the exact numbers, you will need to have decided on a country and ideally have already contracted with a school. But, if you are still in the process of deciding, then this article will help you get an idea of what the startup costs will be. 

Note, these costs will vary from home country to home country and destination country to destination country. For more exact information you will have to research the requirements and prices for your exact situation, but these are the general fees you should consider as you plan to teach abroad. 

Home Country Expenses

Agency

These fees apply to those who choose to go through a placement agency. These organizations usually also offer TEFL programs, which can be completed at a discounted rate. Or, sometimes if you complete the TEFL course with the agency, they will help you find a job for free. Either way, if you choose to work with an agency, there will be some sort of fee for their training and job placement. If you don’t use an agency, then this fee will not apply. 

Criminal Record Check

Reputable schools will want you to provide a criminal record check, usually at a nationwide level. So you will need to apply for this through your home government.

Tourist Visa

As you job hunt in a foreign country, you may either be required by an agency or required by a country to apply for a tourist visa. If working with an agency, then this fee will likely be incorporated into the agency cost. If working independently, the cost of a tourist visa will be your responsibility.

TEFL Certificate

This is one of the largest costs pre-departure. A good TEFL program starts at $1000. While it seems like a lot, this certificate will provide you the ability to teach in most countries. It also qualifies you to teach English online with many other credible organizations. It is the gateway to teaching English abroad. 

Our recommended TEFL course: Let’s TEFL 120-hour online course

Authorizing your Degree

Certain countries will require you to certify your degree for foreign use. This requires you to ge your degree notarized by your university and stamped by your local and, potentially, national government. There will be fees relating to shipping and having them authenticate the documents. 

Travel Expenses

Flights

Anywhere you go, you will have to buy a flight to get there. The price of these flights will differ widely, depending on your home country and destination country. If you have to cross several continents, then the flight will likely cost $400-$800, but if you are closer to the country, then the prices may be lower around $300-$500. 

Sometimes schools will pay for your flights to the country. This will be stipulated in your contract. Not all schools offer this perk, but some do and it’s a serious bonus. 

Insurance

This will vary depending on your situation. Some countries and schools will provide in country medical insurance. If so, then they will help you work that out upon arrival. If you are planning on living abroad, then you may want to consider expatriate health insurance instead of travel insurance. Travel insurance covers individual trips, but expatriate health insurance functions as health insurance for those living abroad for extended amounts of time. These plans can be as low as $80-$100 and offers coverage in a range of countries. 

Luggage/Supplies/Clothing 

Depending on the country, you may need to get additional clothes for the climate. For example, if you are teaching in Eastern Europe, you will need to prepare for cold weather in winter, and if you are teaching in Thailand, then you will need to prepare for hot weather all year round. 

You will also need luggage. You may want to bring different types if you plan on traveling during your time. It’s good to bring both larger and smaller pieces, so you will have different options for the different trips you plan.

Finally, you will need to look into what you need and can’t get in country. Some places you teach will have limited access to the comforts of home, so if you need specific household or personal items, then be sure to bring them with you. Note, also take into consideration that different countries operate on different voltages. If you are bringing electronics, make sure they are geared for the proper voltage or bring a converter, otherwise you can fry your stuff. 

Destination Country Expenses

Transportation to your school

Once you arrive at the airport, you need to make it to your school. If you are working in a major city, this will be easy to accomplish. For those further in the country, it will be more complicated. You will either need to get a cab, bus, or additional flight. Some schools will meet you at the airport and provide transportation to the school. Contact your school in advance to see if this can be arranged. 

Work Permit

To work in a foreign country, you will be required to have a work permit in addition to your visa. Your school will help you with the process. They may even complete it for you. Some schools will pay for this process and others will require you to pay up front and reimburse you after the contract. 

Health Checks

Many countries require you undergo a health check. They are usually very basic. This is usually a fee you will be expected to cover, but some schools may pay for it. 

Visa Extension 

If you come into the country on a tourist visa, you will need to transition to a long stay visa. This process usually requires you to provide proof of a work permit before you can apply. Most schools will cover this fee or reimburse you for it after the contract. 

Conclusion:

Preparing to teach overseas is a commitment and requires some money upfront. But remember, you are working toward a job that will compensate you. The money and time you put in now will allow you to travel and live abroad while working as an English teacher. 

👋 Take your next steps:

Are you ready to start job hunting, or do you need to get your teacher training?