Teach English in Taiwan

You can teach English in Taiwan at private cram schools called buxibans, at kindergartens, through government public school programmes and at universities, mainly in Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung. Most foreign English teachers need a bachelor’s degree, or an associate degree with a TEFL certificate, and a passport from a main English speaking country. Your employer arranges the work permit and you then get an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC). Buxibans commonly pay about NT$600 to NT$800 an hour, and Taiwan’s minimum wage is NT$29,500 a month from 1 January 2026.

Teaching English in Taiwan at a glance

What kinds of English teaching jobs are there in Taiwan?

Buxibans. Private after school cram schools are the biggest employer of foreign teachers. Most classes are for children and teenagers in the afternoon and evening, with some adult classes.

Kindergartens and bilingual preschools. Many hire foreign teachers for daytime classes, often alongside buxiban work. Check that the role is legal for foreign teachers before you accept.

Public school programmes. Taiwan’s push to become bilingual by 2030 has expanded government schemes that place foreign English teachers in public schools, usually wanting a teaching licence or relevant degree and paying well with benefits.

Universities and private students. University posts usually need a master’s degree. Private lessons are a common extra, but only legal within the rules of your work permit.

How much do English teachers earn in Taiwan?

Buxibans commonly pay about NT$600 to NT$800 an hour, and full-time contracts often work out at NT$55,000 to NT$70,000 a month, with Taipei at the top of the range. Public school programmes and universities pay more for qualified, experienced teachers, sometimes with housing help or flights. Taiwan’s minimum wage is NT$29,500 a month and NT$196 an hour in 2026, well below typical teaching pay. Living costs outside Taipei are low, so saving is realistic. Compare pay across countries on the TEFL Salary Index, and see our guide to the top cities to teach English in Taiwan for pay by city.

What qualifications do you need to teach English in Taiwan?

To get a work permit as an English teacher at a buxiban, you usually need a bachelor’s degree, or an associate degree combined with a TEFL certificate, and a passport from a main English speaking country such as the UK, Ireland, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or South Africa. Your degree certificate is normally authenticated before you apply, and many employers ask for a criminal record check. A TEFL certificate of at least 120 hours is widely expected even with a degree, and public school programmes often want a teaching licence. The Ofqual-regulated Level 5 TEFL course can be verified on the Ofqual register.

Which visa do you need to teach English in Taiwan?

Your employer applies for your work permit, so you need a job offer first. With the permit you apply for a resident visa, enter Taiwan, complete a health check and then receive an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) from the National Immigration Agency. Your work permit ties you to your employer, so teaching elsewhere usually needs separate permission. Some nationalities, including UK, Irish and Canadian citizens, may qualify for a working holiday or youth mobility visa, and experienced professionals can apply for the Employment Gold Card. Check current rules with the Taipei representative office in your country and our Visa Desk before you travel.

Where are the English teaching jobs in Taiwan?

Taipei and New Taipei have the most jobs and the highest pay and rents. Taichung, in the centre of the island, has a large market, a mild climate and much lower costs. Kaohsiung in the south is a relaxed port city, and Tainan is the historic capital with a slower pace.

What is it like teaching in Taiwan?

Taiwan is one of the safest and friendliest places in Asia to teach, with excellent public transport, affordable healthcare once you join the national health insurance, and famous street food. Buxiban timetables run into the evening, so mornings are usually free. Students are generally respectful, and parents expect visible progress. Summers are hot and humid, with typhoons from July to September.

Last updated: 2 October 2026. Pay figures are approximate typical ranges, not quotes. Work permit and ARC rules change, so confirm current requirements with the Taipei representative office in your country and your employer before you accept an offer.