Teaching English is one of the most popular expat jobs in Vietnam. As a financial adviser who specialises in wealth management for expat clients, I am often asked whether teaching English can genuinely support long-term financial goals.
The short answer is yes, if it is approached with realistic expectations and sound budgeting. Vietnam, in particular, stands out as one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling destinations when balancing income potential against cost of living.
This article offers a practical guide to teaching English in Vietnam, alongside a detailed financial breakdown of salaries, living costs, and realistic savings potential for expats.
Why Teaching English in Vietnam Appeals to Expats
Vietnam’s appeal goes far beyond its warm climate and excellent food. The country has a young population, a strong cultural emphasis on education, and sustained demand for English teachers across public schools, private language centres, universities, and international schools.
For expats, working in Vietnam offers:
A relatively low cost of living compared to Western countries
Competitive teaching salaries when adjusted for local expenses
A welcoming expat community in major cities
Easy regional travel throughout Southeast Asia
From a financial planning perspective, Vietnam offers something increasingly rare: the ability to live well while still saving money.
Legal Requirements for Teaching English in Vietnam
Understanding the legal framework for teaching English in Vietnam is essential, not only for securing employment but also for protecting your income, residency status, and long-term financial wellbeing. While the process may appear bureaucratic at first glance, it is generally straightforward when approached methodically and with the right documentation.
1. Bachelor’s Degree (Any Subject)
First and foremost, most legal teaching positions in Vietnam require a recognised bachelor’s degree. Importantly, this degree does not need to be in English or Education, degrees in subjects such as Business, History, or Science are commonly accepted.
In practice:
The degree must be issued by an accredited university
You will need a notarised and legalised copy, often authenticated by your home country and then by the Vietnamese embassy
Schools typically use this document to sponsor your work permit
For example, a UK graduate with a BA in Politics can legally teach English in Vietnam, provided the degree is properly certified. While there are rare exceptions (such as substituting a degree with five years of documented teaching experience), these cases are uncommon and often restricted to specific employers.
From a financial planning perspective, holding a degree significantly expands your access to higher-paying and more stable roles.
2. TEFL Certification (120 Hours Minimum Recommended)
Alongside a degree, a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate is now a near-universal requirement. As Vietnam’s English education market has matured, employers have become more selective, favouring teachers who can demonstrate formal training.
Key points to consider:
A 120-hour TEFL certificate is the industry standard
Online TEFLs are accepted by many employers, though blended or in-person courses are often preferred
Advanced or Level 5 TEFL qualifications can improve salary negotiation power
For instance, a newly qualified teacher with no classroom experience but a well-regarded TEFL certificate will often be hired over someone without training.
Additionally, stronger qualifications can open doors to better institutions, reducing income volatility, an important consideration for expats managing savings and investments abroad.
3. Clean Criminal Background Check
Next, you will need a clean criminal background check from your home country (or any country where you have lived recently). This is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a Vietnamese work permit.
Typically:
UK teachers provide a DBS check
US teachers provide an FBI background check
The document must be issued within the last 6 months
It must be notarised and legalised before submission
While this step can take time, it is essential to start the process early. Schools cannot legally finalise your employment without it, and delays can result in unpaid gaps between contracts.
Importantly, having proper documentation ensures your employment is legitimate, which in turn safeguards your salary, healthcare access, and ability to remit savings internationally.
4. Health Check (Completed in Vietnam)
In addition to documentation from home, Vietnam requires a local medical examination. This is completed after arrival and is generally quick, affordable, and straightforward.
The health check usually includes:
Basic physical examination
Blood tests
Chest X-ray
Most employers will direct you to an approved hospital or clinic, and costs typically range between £30–£60 ($40–$75). In many cases, schools reimburse this expense or deduct it minimally from your first month’s salary.
From an expat advisory standpoint, this process also highlights the importance of having adequate health insurance, as not all contracts include comprehensive medical cover.
5. Age Requirement (Typically 21+)
While not always explicitly stated, most employers require teachers to be at least 21 years old. This aligns with work permit regulations and insurance policies.
That said:
Some language centres prefer teachers aged 23–55
International schools may apply stricter age and experience criteria
Although age limits are rarely rigidly enforced, being aware of them helps set realistic expectations when applying for roles, particularly in higher-paying institutions.
6. Native vs Non-Native English Speakers: Additional Requirements
Finally, requirements differ slightly depending on whether you are a native or non-native English speaker.
For native English speakers (UK, US, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand):
Bachelor’s degree (any subject)
TEFL certificate
Clean background check
For non-native English speakers, additional documentation is usually required:
Degree in English or Education (preferred)
English proficiency certificate (e.g. IELTS)
Demonstrable teaching experience
A Word on Legal Compliance
Although you may hear stories of teachers working “under the table”, doing so exposes you to serious risks, including fines, deportation, and loss of income. From a financial adviser’s perspective, illegal work also undermines your ability to plan, save, and invest effectively as an expat.
In contrast, securing the correct visa and work permit:
Protects your income
Improves access to reputable employers
Enables long-term financial stability abroad
With preparation and the right paperwork, the legal process for teaching English in Vietnam is not only manageable but well worth the effort.
Teaching English in Vietnam: Salary Expectations
When assessing whether teaching English in Vietnam is financially viable, salary expectations must be viewed in context. While headline figures may appear modest compared to the UK or US, the real value of earnings becomes clear when aligned with Vietnam’s cost of living and strong demand for qualified teachers.
Salaries vary considerably depending on the type of institution, location, qualifications, and willingness to take on additional work such as private tutoring. Understanding these differences allows you to set realistic expectations and make informed financial decisions before relocating.
Average Monthly Salaries by Institution Type
| Institution Type | Monthly Income (USD) | Monthly Income (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Public schools | $1,100 – $1,840 | £900 – £1,500 |
| Language centres | $1,000 – $1,800 | £800 – £1,440 |
| International schools | $2,000 – $5,000 | £1,600 – £4,000 |
| Universities | $1,800 – $3,500 | £1,450 – £2,800 |
(Estimates based on aggregated data from TEFL providers, British Council reports, and expat salary surveys.)
1. Public Schools: Stable Income with Predictable Hours
Public school positions are often attractive to teachers seeking structure and work-life balance. These roles typically run Monday to Friday during standard school hours, with weekends and school holidays off.
Key characteristics include:
Monthly salaries between £900 and £1,500 ($1,100–$1,840)
Paid public holidays and long summer breaks
Large class sizes, often 40–60 students
For example, a teacher earning £1,300 per month while living in a reasonably priced Hanoi neighbourhood may still save £300–£500 monthly. However, it is important to note that income growth in public schools is relatively limited, making these roles better suited to lifestyle-focused expats rather than aggressive savers.
2. Language Centres: Flexibility and Entry-Level Opportunity
Private language centres form the backbone of Vietnam’s English education market and are often the first stop for newly qualified teachers. These schools operate year-round and teach a wide range of learners, from young children to working professionals.
What to expect:
Monthly earnings of £800–£1,440 ($1,000–$1,800)
Evening and weekend hours are common
Paid overtime, bonuses, and training are sometimes available
While base salaries may be slightly lower than public schools, language centres offer flexibility and opportunities to increase income through additional classes.
For teachers willing to work peak hours, monthly earnings can quickly exceed initial expectations.
3. International Schools: High Income, High Expectations
International schools represent the top end of the salary spectrum and offer some of the most generous expat packages in Vietnam. However, these roles are highly competitive and require formal teaching qualifications beyond a standard TEFL certificate.
Typical requirements include:
Degree in Education or English
Teaching licence (e.g. PGCE, QTS, or US state licence)
Several years of classroom experience
In return, teachers can expect:
Monthly salaries of £1,600–£4,000 ($2,000–$5,000)
Health insurance, paid holidays, and relocation support
Long-term contract stability
From a financial planning standpoint, these roles offer the greatest savings potential. It is not uncommon for international school teachers to save £1,500 or more per month, particularly if housing allowances are included.
4. University Positions: Prestige and Long Holidays
Teaching at a Vietnamese university is another attractive option, particularly for experienced educators. These roles often come with lighter teaching schedules and extended holiday periods.
However, there are trade-offs:
Salaries range from £1,450–£2,800 ($1,800–$3,500)
Contracts may be paid only during teaching terms
Advanced degrees may be required for top-tier institutions
For instance, while a university role may appear lucrative, unpaid holiday periods can reduce annual savings if not carefully planned. As such, these positions suit teachers who value time over consistent monthly income.
5. Supplementing Income with Private Tutoring
Regardless of your primary employer, private tutoring is one of the most effective ways to increase earnings in Vietnam. Demand is strong among professionals, university students, and parents seeking additional support for their children.
Typical tutoring rates:
£13–£25 per hour ($16–$30)
Evening and weekend availability increases demand
Even just five tutoring hours per week can add £250–£400 per month, significantly improving savings capacity.
Importantly, this additional income can be earmarked for investments, emergency funds, or pension contributions back home.
Factors That Influence Your Salary
Finally, it is worth noting that salary outcomes are influenced by several variables:
City (Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi typically pay more)
Experience and qualifications
Willingness to work peak hours
Negotiation skills and contract structure
Approaching your teaching role with a financial mindset, rather than viewing it purely as a gap year, can materially change your long-term outcomes.
Cost of Living in Vietnam: What to Expect
One of the most compelling financial advantages of teaching English in Vietnam is the country’s exceptionally low cost of living relative to Western standards. While salaries may initially appear modest to some expats, everyday expenses in Vietnam are significantly lower, allowing teachers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while still building meaningful savings.
That said, your actual cost of living will depend heavily on lifestyle choices, location, and housing preferences. Understanding where your money goes each month is essential, not only for budgeting, but for ensuring your time abroad supports your broader financial goals.
1. Single Expat (Language Centre or Public School Teacher)
This profile represents a typical first-time expat teacher living comfortably but sensibly in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang.
| Expense | USD | GBP |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bed local apartment) | $400 – $600 | £320 – £480 |
| Utilities & internet | $70 – $100 | £55 – £80 |
| Food & groceries | $200 – $300 | £160 – £240 |
| Transport | $40 – $70 | £30 – £55 |
| Health insurance | $60 – $100 | £50 – £80 |
| Leisure & travel | $100 – $150 | £80 – £120 |
Estimated monthly total: $870 – $1,320 (£695 – £1,055)
This is the most common scenario for teachers earning £900–£1,500 per month, allowing for steady savings with disciplined spending.
2. Single Expat (International School Teacher)
This profile assumes higher income, better benefits, and a more Western-style lifestyle.
| Expense | USD | GBP |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (modern apartment, expat area) | $700 – $1,000 | £560 – £800 |
| Utilities & internet | $90 – $130 | £70 – £105 |
| Food & groceries | $300 – $400 | £240 – £320 |
| Transport | $50 – $80 | £40 – £65 |
| Health insurance | $0 – $50* | £0 – £40* |
| Leisure & travel | $150 – $250 | £120 – £200 |
*Often partially or fully covered by employer
Estimated monthly total: $1,290 – $1,910 (£1,030 – £1,530)
Despite higher spending, savings potential remains strong due to salaries of £1,600–£4,000 per month.
3. Teaching Couple (Both Teaching English)
A common and financially efficient setup, particularly for couples working at language centres or public schools.
| Expense | USD | GBP |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1–2 bed apartment) | $600 – $900 | £480 – £720 |
| Utilities & internet | $90 – $130 | £70 – £105 |
| Food & groceries | $350 – $500 | £280 – £400 |
| Transport | $70 – $120 | £55 – £95 |
| Health insurance | $120 – $200 | £95 – £160 |
| Leisure & travel | $150 – $250 | £120 – £200 |
Estimated monthly total: $1,380 – $2,100 (£1,100 – £1,680)
With dual incomes of £2,000–£3,000+, couples often save aggressively while maintaining a high quality of life.
4. Expat with Family (One Teaching Income)
This scenario assumes one teaching parent (often at an international school) and one non-working partner with one child.
| Expense | USD | GBP |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (2–3 bed apartment) | $1,000 – $1,500 | £800 – £1,200 |
| Utilities & internet | $120 – $180 | £95 – £145 |
| Food & groceries | $500 – $700 | £400 – £560 |
| Transport | $100 – $150 | £80 – £120 |
| Health insurance (family) | $250 – $400 | £200 – £320 |
| Schooling* | $0 – $1,000 | £0 – £800 |
| Leisure & travel | $150 – $250 | £120 – £200 |
*Often subsidised or fully covered at international schools
Estimated monthly total (excluding school fees): $2,220 – $3,330 (£1,775 – £2,665)
This setup requires careful planning but can be very effective when schooling and healthcare are employer-supported.
5. High-Saving “Local Lifestyle” Expat
For teachers prioritising savings and long-term financial goals.
| Expense | USD | GBP |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (local area, modest flat) | $300 – $450 | £240 – £360 |
| Utilities & internet | $60 – $80 | £50 – £65 |
| Food (mostly local) | $150 – $200 | £120 – £160 |
| Transport | $30 – $50 | £25 – £40 |
| Health insurance | $60 – $80 | £50 – £65 |
| Leisure | $50 – $100 | £40 – £80 |
Estimated monthly total: $650 – $960 (£525 – £770)
This profile can realistically save £500–£1,000 per month even on mid-range teaching salaries.
A Financial Adviser’s Perspective
What these profiles demonstrate clearly is that Vietnam rewards intentional living. Unlike many Western countries, housing, food, and transport costs remain flexible, allowing expats to actively control their savings rate.
For teachers who align their lifestyle with their income, Vietnam offers an unusually strong opportunity to enjoy life today while building financial security for tomorrow.
Savings Potential: The Key Question
For most expats, the defining financial question is not how much you earn, but how much you can realistically save. Teaching English in Vietnam stands out because the relationship between income and living costs is unusually favourable.
When managed sensibly, even modest salaries can generate consistent surplus income.
Below, I break down common savings scenarios to illustrate what is achievable in practice and how teachers can actively improve their outcomes.
1. Entry-Level Teacher: Building Foundational Savings
An entry-level teacher typically works at a language centre or public school, often with a basic TEFL qualification and limited experience. While income at this stage is lower, Vietnam’s low cost base makes saving entirely possible.
Typical profile:
Monthly income: £1,100–£1,300 ($1,350–$1,600)
Monthly expenses: £750–£900 ($900–$1,100)
This leaves £300–£500 per month available for savings.
At this stage, savings should be directed towards:
An emergency fund (3–6 months of expenses)
Clearing high-interest debt at home
Covering future visa runs or relocation costs
For example, saving £400 per month results in nearly £5,000 per year, often more than many new teachers manage in the UK once rent and commuting are considered. The key here is consistency rather than perfection.
2. Mid-Level Teacher with Private Tutoring: Accelerating Savings
Once teachers gain confidence and local contacts, many supplement their core income with private tutoring. This is where savings potential increases markedly.
Typical profile:
Base salary: £1,300–£1,500 ($1,600–$1,840)
Tutoring income: £250–£500 ($300–$600)
Monthly expenses: £850–£1,000 ($1,050–$1,250)
This creates monthly savings of £600–£900.
Practical steps to maximise this stage:
Allocate tutoring income entirely to savings or investments
Automate monthly transfers to UK or offshore savings accounts
Avoid lifestyle inflation as income rises
At £800 per month, annual savings reach £9,600, which can meaningfully contribute to long-term goals such as pensions, investments, or property deposits.
3. International School Teacher: High-Impact Wealth Building
International school roles offer the strongest savings potential, particularly for experienced teachers with formal qualifications. While workloads are higher, the financial upside is substantial.
Typical profile:
Monthly income: £2,500–£3,500 ($3,100–$4,300)
Monthly expenses: £1,200–£1,500 ($1,500–$1,900)
This leaves £1,500–£2,000+ per month in surplus income.
At this level, teachers should think beyond simple savings and focus on:
Structured investment portfolios
Maintaining or restarting UK or US pension contributions
Currency diversification between GBP, USD, and offshore accounts
Over just three years, saving £1,700 per month equates to over £60,000, excluding investment growth. This is where teaching English abroad transitions from a lifestyle choice into a powerful financial strategy.
4. Teaching Couples: Leveraging Dual Incomes
Couples who both teach English in Vietnam are often among the strongest financial performers. Shared living costs combined with dual incomes significantly improve savings efficiency.
Typical profile:
Combined income: £2,500–£3,200 ($3,100–$4,000)
Combined expenses: £1,300–£1,700 ($1,600–$2,100)
This results in joint savings of £800–£1,500 per month.
Effective strategies for couples include:
Living on one income and saving the other
Dividing savings goals (e.g. one short-term, one long-term)
Coordinating investment and currency strategies
From a financial planning perspective, this is one of the most efficient expat arrangements available in Southeast Asia.
5. Lifestyle-Controlled Saver: Maximising Savings on Modest Income
Some teachers deliberately prioritise savings over lifestyle upgrades. By living locally and avoiding unnecessary Western expenses, savings rates can be surprisingly high, even on mid-range salaries.
Typical profile:
Monthly income: £1,300–£1,500 ($1,600–$1,840)
Monthly expenses: £600–£800 ($750–$1,000)
This allows for £500–£900 per month in savings.
Common habits among high-saving teachers:
Renting in non-expat neighbourhoods
Eating local food most days
Using motorbikes or walking instead of taxis
Setting firm discretionary spending limits
While this approach is not for everyone, it demonstrates how behaviour, rather than salary alone, determines financial outcomes.
Turning Savings into Long-Term Wealth
Saving money abroad is only part of the equation. Without a plan, cash savings can lose value to inflation or sit idle. Teachers should therefore consider:
Investing surplus income appropriately for time horizon and risk tolerance
Keeping savings outside Vietnam for currency and political diversification
Reviewing financial arrangements annually as circumstances change
As an expat and financial adviser, I consistently see the best outcomes among those who treat their overseas income as an opportunity, not a pause, in their financial journey.
Financial Planning Considerations for Expats
Teaching English in Vietnam can be financially rewarding, but only when income is managed with intention. Too often, expats treat overseas work as a financial pause rather than a strategic phase.
In reality, time spent abroad can be one of the most effective periods for building long-term wealth, if the right structures are put in place early.
Below are the key financial considerations I advise expat teachers to address as soon as possible after arriving in Vietnam.
1. Maintain Long-Term Savings and Pension Contributions
One of the most common mistakes expats make is suspending pension contributions while abroad. While teaching English in Vietnam may feel temporary, lost contribution years can materially impact long-term retirement outcomes.
Practical steps include:
Continuing UK pension contributions where possible (e.g. SIPPs or existing workplace schemes)
For US citizens, maintaining contributions to IRAs or eligible retirement accounts
Reviewing contribution levels annually as income increases
For example, redirecting just £300 per month into a long-term investment over ten years can have a far greater impact than attempting to “catch up” later. Vietnam’s low living costs make maintaining contributions far more achievable than many expect.
2. Manage Currency Exposure Intentionally
Expat teachers in Vietnam often earn in Vietnamese dong (VND) while holding savings, investments, or liabilities in GBP or USD. Without planning, this can create unnecessary currency risk.
Key considerations:
Avoid holding large cash balances in VND long-term
Transfer surplus income regularly into GBP or USD accounts
Consider multi-currency or offshore banking solutions
For instance, teachers who leave funds in local accounts may be exposed to currency depreciation or difficulties repatriating money later. A disciplined transfer schedule, monthly or quarterly, reduces risk and supports consistent saving habits.
3. Build and Protect an Emergency Fund
An emergency fund is particularly important for expats, as unexpected costs abroad can escalate quickly. Job changes, visa delays, or medical expenses can all disrupt income.
Recommended guidelines:
Maintain 3–6 months of living expenses in accessible savings
Hold funds outside Vietnam where possible
Avoid tying emergency money into volatile investments
For example, a teacher with monthly expenses of £900 should aim for an emergency fund of £2,700–£5,400. Having this buffer not only provides financial security but also reduces stress and improves decision-making.
4. Secure Appropriate Insurance Coverage
Insurance is not an area where expats should cut corners. While healthcare in Vietnam is affordable, serious medical treatment at international hospitals can be costly.
Essential cover includes:
Comprehensive health insurance with international hospital access
Optional income protection or travel insurance
Clear understanding of what your employer does and does not provide
From a financial planning perspective, insurance protects your savings and investment strategy by preventing one-off events from derailing long-term goals.
5. Avoid Lifestyle Inflation as Income Rises
As teachers gain experience, take on tutoring, or move into higher-paying roles, income often increases. The temptation is to upgrade housing, dine out more frequently, or adopt a more Western lifestyle.
While some lifestyle improvement is reasonable, unchecked inflation can quietly erode savings potential.
Practical strategies include:
Keeping fixed costs (rent, transport) stable as income rises
Allocating new income increases directly to savings or investments
Reviewing spending quarterly rather than casually
In my experience, teachers who lock in savings habits early tend to outperform higher earners who allow costs to creep upward.
Is Teaching English in Vietnam Financially Worthwhile?
Teaching English in Vietnam is not a get-rich-quick scheme, but it can be a financially sustainable and rewarding chapter of an expat career.
For foreign teachers willing to live sensibly, it offers a rare combination of professional opportunity, cultural immersion, and genuine savings potential.
If you want detailed and personal advice on budgeting and finance while living and working in Vietnam, I’m always happy to help.
Contact us today for a free consultation!