work and travel Thailand
Become an English teacher in Thailand
Basic information about the program
Work and Travel Thailand is designed for everyone who has completed an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree in any field in Croatia, another country in the European Union, or a Western Balkan country and wants to work as an English teacher in Thailand. If you haven’t completed your studies, you can contact us to check the available options for you as well.
01
Program goals
Education and certification of future English teachers and employment in Thai schools. Introduction to a completely different culture, customs, and way of life, as well as gaining new experiences and friendships, along with work and earnings.
02
Age limit and work experience
Participants between 20 and 45 years old can apply for the program. No prior work experience in schools or kindergartens, nor completion of a university degree in English language, is required to participate. Additional certificates and experience may be a plus but are not mandatory.
03
Departure dates
Departures are scheduled during October and April each year because that’s when the semester starts for Thai schools. However, departure is not limited to these months; most of our candidates choose to depart during these times, ensuring you won’t be alone in the group, and there will always be someone from our participants with you.
WHAT DO WE OFFER AND WHY CHOOSE THIS PROGRAM?
One-Stop-Shop: From departure to the start of work, we are here for you in every aspect of the program.
A detailed guide and individual approach
Before you even apply to the program, you will have a detailed informational meeting with our advisors. Once you apply, you will receive ongoing communication and support from your dedicated advisor throughout the entire program via email and WhatsApp.
Training and certification in Thailand by an accredited school
120 hours of accredited TEFL training over 3 weeks, including 6 hours of observed teaching practice. We partner with accredited schools in Thailand.
Guaranteed job
After completing the training and obtaining the certificate, all participants will receive job offers from schools in Thailand and can independently choose where they will work and live.
Assistance throughout the preparation of documentation and execution of the program
An advisor will assist you in collecting documents and provide all necessary instructions for obtaining a Thai visa.
Flexible program duration
Contracts with schools are usually for one year, but shorter terms are also possible, and the contract can be extended indefinitely by mutual agreement between the participant and the school at no additional cost from the agency!
Competitive salary
After securing a job at the school, participants receive a monthly salary ranging from 800 to 1000 euros, which is more than sufficient to cover living expenses in Thailand. Additionally, there is an opportunity for extra income through private English tutoring sessions. If participants extend their contract, they can negotiate for a higher salary.
Apply now or ask a question
Submit your application inquiry via the contact form on the website.
TEFL course
What is a TEFL course and what do you gain from it?
TEFL – Teaching English as a Foreign Language
The Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is an internationally recognized initial qualification for teaching English as a foreign language in schools and communities. To work as an English language teacher in Thailand, you must successfully complete TEFL training and pass an exam. We collaborate with schools in Thailand that are registered and accredited; their certificates are accepted in all Thai schools. All our participants have successfully passed the exam so far. The minimum English language proficiency required to pass the exam easily is at the B2 level.
Duration of training
Each participant completes a 120-hour accredited TEFL course over a period of 3 weeks, including 6 hours of observed teaching practice in a Thai school. Upon completion of the training, you will receive job offers as an English language teacher in schools. You can request a specific city or region and the age group of students you prefer to work with, but there is no guarantee that your preferences will be met, as the school ultimately decides on your employment. Participants always have the option to decline an offer from a school they do not wish to join for any reason.
Training and certification
Methodology of teaching English as a foreign language, grammar, vocabulary building, listening, reading, writing, and speaking lectures, lesson planning, and a final exam. After successfully passing the exam, you will receive a certificate, which will assist you in obtaining a Thai work permit, also known as a “blue book.” Throughout the entire process, our advisor and a local school in Thailand will assist you.
4 steps of the program
01.
Application and documentation collection, visa, flight ticket
After applying to the program, you will submit the necessary documents. For more details, please refer to the section on mandatory documentation.
02.
You arrive in Thailand
Your 3-week TEFL course takes place in Phuket. Premium Package participants receive airport pick-up, accommodation during the course and a welcome orientation. Standard Package participants arrange their own accommodation and transfer to the training location.
03.
Contract with the school
After successfully completing the training, you will receive a job offer from the school where you trained, to work at one of the nearby schools in Thailand.
04.
Visa and work permit process
Once you have accepted a teaching position, your hiring school will guide you through the required visa and work permit process. Specific requirements and documentation will be explained during the interview and hiring process.
Mandatory documentation
Here are listed all the necessary documents for application and implementation of the program
01
Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least one year; we recommend longer depending on how long you intend to stay in Thailand.
02
Degree diploma
Translated diploma into English by a certified translator and a copy of the original diploma. The diploma also needs to be legalized or recognized (nostrified).
03
Transcript of grades
Transcript of grades translated and certified by an authorized translator.
04
Certificate of no criminal record
In Croatia, the certificate can be obtained through the E-citizen system, and it also needs to be translated into English by an authorized translator.
05
Tourist visa
Entry and visa requirements depend on your nationality and current Thai regulations. Your advisor will provide step-by-step guidance on the documents and procedures applicable to your case.
06
Round-trip flight ticket
Each program participant is required to purchase a round-trip airline ticket before departing to Thailand for entry into the country. With our assistance, tickets with flexible date and city changes can be purchased.
Choose your package:
STANDARD / PREMIUM
$1590 / $2090
STANDARD PACKAGE — USD 1,590: complete TEFL training and program support without accommodation during the course.
PREMIUM PACKAGE — USD 2,090: everything in the Standard Package plus accommodation during the course in Phuket, airport pick-up and welcome orientation.
Payment terms and installment schedule are confirmed after application based on the selected package. Payments to the agency are made in Croatia at the applicable exchange rate on the day of payment. PayPal is available after application; credit cards are not accepted.
PRICE INCLUDES:
Included in both packages, with Premium-only benefits clearly marked.
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
additional costs
Ready to Start Your Teaching Adventure in Thailand?
Take the first step towards a transformative teaching experience with us. Book free consultation and embark on a journey of a lifetime!
Challenges related to the Work and Travel Asia program
Here are some of the common challenges that participants of this program face, as a guide for you and your expectations.
Culture shock
People around the world are different. While human needs are essentially the same, the ways they are fulfilled vary, and this is what culture encompasses. Imagine being in a foreign country where many locals don’t speak English very well. Buildings look different, the food isn’t the same as at home, people look, speak, and behave differently, and you don’t have friends nearby. Read our blog on initial adjustment to life in Thailand.
Cultural exchange program
The salary you will receive in Thailand will be sufficient to cover your basic living expenses, and you can earn extra income through private English lessons. If earning potential is a high priority for you, this program may not be suitable.
Total program costs
When you add up all the costs towards the agency, school, and other travel expenses, they amount to more than 3000 euros. This means you need to save at least 3000 euros before applying for the program. Education loans can be used to finance the program through nearly all commercial banks in Croatia and the EU. If you plan to finance your program with a loan, please contact us via email so we can provide you with a participation confirmation and a list of all costs for the bank. The process takes several business days, and in most cases, a co-signer who is employed is required if you are currently not employed.
Food in Thailand
The food is significantly different compared to the EU. Thai cuisine uses a variety of fresh herbs and spices such as lemongrass, galangal, ginger, chili peppers, coriander, and basil. Coconut milk, fish sauce, and tamarind are also commonly used. Western fast food chains are available, and you can find almost anything that you eat at home usually until you find what suits you best in Thai cuisine. Don’t worry, Thai cuisine is one of the best in the world, and you will surely be delighted!
Health insurance
During the training, you are covered by travel insurance, and while working at the school, you have healthcare provided through the school, like all other school employees. You are insured for health throughout your stay in the program, except for a few days between transitioning from a tourist visa to a work visa after completing training. For that period, you can purchase health insurance yourself, and the cost is not more than 20 euros.
Free time and entertainment
Although you will have many non-working days throughout the year and a long summer break during school holidays, you will be required to work an average of 6 hours per day from Monday to Friday during the school year. Absences and irresponsible behavior at work may lead to termination, which the agency cannot influence. Read our blog about non-working days.
Apply now or ask a question
Submit your application inquiry via the contact form on the website.
Participants’ feedback
Participating in the Work and Travel Asia program in Thailand was one of the best experiences of my life. The program allowed me to take a course and work in the city of Hat Yai, and I also had the opportunity to explore amazing cultures and sights. Accommodation and transportation were provided as agreed. All administrative formalities, such as visas and work permits, were organized and handled by the team. I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to work and travel in Asia!
Milica
The experience I gained through the Work and Travel Asia program was incredible. Working in Asia was challenging, but also extremely rewarding. The organization was top-notch – from providing accommodation, assistance in obtaining visas and work permits. Also, I had the opportunity to explore various tourist attractions and get to know the local way of life. All this would not be possible without the support and professionalism of the team behind this program. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to work and travel.
Stjepan
The experience of working as an English teacher in Thailand through the Work and Travel Thailand program was exceptional. The organization was excellent, and the support from the advisors was excellent. During the training, we had accommodation provided and the opportunity for practical classes in local schools, which was a great experience. After completing the course, I immediately received 3 job offers and could choose where to work and live. The salary was more than enough to live in Thailand, and the possibility of additional work through private lessons enabled me to earn extra. This experience broadened my horizons and enriched my life in many ways, I found the love of my life and brought her home to Croatia.
Ervin
Apply now or ask a question
Submit your application inquiry via the contact form on the website.
Location: Phuket
The TEFL course is held in Phuket, one of Thailand’s best-known island destinations. All participants spend the 3-week training period in Phuket. After successfully completing the course, job placement opportunities may be available in Phuket or in other parts of Thailand depending on school vacancies and the participant’s preferences.
Discover Phuket with our Fact Sheet
Basic Information
Location: Phuket is an island province in southern Thailand on the Andaman Sea.
International access: Phuket International Airport connects the island with Bangkok and many international destinations.
Tourism: Phuket is one of Thailand’s best-known destinations, combining beaches, island life, restaurants, nightlife and cultural attractions.
Phuket Old Town: The historic center is known for Sino-Portuguese architecture, cafés, markets and colorful streets.
Transportation: Local buses, taxis, ride-hailing services and songthaews are commonly used. Many residents also use scooters, although extra caution is required in traffic.
Climate: Phuket has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year and a wetter monsoon period.
Demographics
Community: Phuket has a diverse local population and a large international community due to tourism and long-term foreign residents.
Cultural influences: Thai, Chinese-Thai and other regional influences are visible in local food, festivals, temples and architecture.
Languages: Thai is the official language, while English is widely used in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants and many service businesses.
Lifestyle
Food: Phuket offers everything from inexpensive Thai street food and local markets to international restaurants and cafés.
Shopping: Shopping malls, convenience stores, local markets and weekend markets are widely available.
Recreation: Beaches, gyms, Muay Thai camps, diving, snorkeling, boat trips and outdoor activities are easy to find across the island.
Culture: Phuket Old Town, Buddhist temples, local festivals and traditional markets provide a strong contrast to the island’s resort areas.
Weekend activities: Participants can explore different beaches, viewpoints and nearby islands during their free time.
Swimming and beaches
Patong Beach: One of Phuket’s most famous beaches, with a lively atmosphere and a large selection of restaurants and activities.
Kata Beach: Popular for swimming, relaxing and surfing during suitable conditions.
Karon Beach: A long sandy beach with plenty of space and a more open feel than Patong.
Nai Harn Beach: A popular beach in the south of Phuket known for its scenic setting.
Bang Tao Beach: A long beach on the west coast with a mix of local areas, resorts and beach venues.
Sea conditions can change seasonally. Always follow beach warning flags and local safety instructions, especially during the monsoon period.
Bars and clubs
Patong: The island’s main nightlife area, with bars, clubs, live music and restaurants concentrated around Bangla Road and the surrounding streets.
Phuket Old Town: A more relaxed evening option with cafés, restaurants, cocktail bars and live music venues.
Night markets: Phuket has several popular night markets offering Thai food, snacks, clothing and souvenirs.
Beach areas: Kata, Karon, Bang Tao and Rawai offer a wide range of restaurants and bars with a calmer atmosphere than central Patong.
Whether you prefer nightlife, food markets or a quiet dinner, Phuket offers a wide range of options for different budgets and lifestyles.
Safety
General safety: Phuket is a major tourist destination, but normal precautions with personal belongings and valuables are recommended.
Traffic: Road traffic is one of the main practical risks. Participants should be especially careful when using or renting scooters and should always follow local licensing and helmet requirements.
Sea safety: Currents and waves can be strong during the monsoon season. Always follow beach warning flags and lifeguard instructions.
Transportation: Official taxis and ride-hailing services are practical options, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Health: Use sun protection, stay hydrated and take normal food and water precautions.
Medical care: Phuket has hospitals, clinics and pharmacies serving both local residents and international visitors.
Local rules and customs: Respect Thai laws, Buddhist temples, the local culture and dress requirements at religious sites.