How to teach English in Cambodia
From zero to teaching, in five clear steps. Here is the path most people take to get certified, find a job, sort a visa and settle into life in Cambodia, with the real data and tools to do each step well.
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Step 1: Get TEFL certified
Complete an accredited TEFL or TESOL course online. Most take two to four weeks and can be done at your own pace. It is the qualification Cambodian schools look for, especially if you do not have a degree.
We recommend Bridge TEFL for internationally accredited, fully online courses from 120 hours. Their 240-Hour Master Bundle is especially valuable without a degree, as it gives you a stronger credential to show employers. Read our full TEFL course comparison →
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Step 2: Prepare your documents
You will need a valid passport with at least six months remaining, your TEFL certificate, a CV, and a short cover letter. Some schools also ask for a basic medical check and police clearance.
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Step 3: Apply for jobs
Apply through GlobeScraper for vetted schools, check Facebook groups like Teaching Jobs Cambodia, or walk into language centres in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap with a printed CV. Most teachers land a job within one to two weeks of arriving. See how teachers find jobs in Cambodia →
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Step 4: Sort your visa
Arrive on an E-class business visa, then extend it once you have a signed contract. Your school typically helps with the work permit process. Avoid tourist visas if you plan to stay long term. Read the full visa requirements →
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Step 5: Start your new life
Find affordable housing, set up a local SIM card, open a bank account if needed, and settle into your routine. Cambodia’s low cost of living means your salary goes further than you would expect. Use GlobeScraper to browse rentals, get a Cambodia eSIM, move money over, and estimate your monthly budget.
Plan the practical side
The tools and data you will actually use once you commit to the move.
