Brazil has become a global economic powerhouse with a dynamic and thriving culture, which has led to an extraordinary demand for qualified English language instructors. Teaching English in Brazil is a great way to explore the stunning scenery, culture, beach life, and cuisine. You also have the opportunity to meet warm, inviting locals and while doing so.

Teaching English is your ticket to making this your home.

Find out in Brazil, the requirements to do so, and the potential salary you can earn. We’ll guide you through whether you can teach English in Brazil without a degree and more, so pack your bags and get ready to embark on a new journey while picking up new language skills!

Can I teach English in Brazil without a degree?

Absolutely! There are actually a few ways you can teach English in Brazil without earning a college diploma.

in Brazil by earning a certification like the . Most of these programs are accessible both and offline, in . Courses for a few months and give you credibility when applying for jobs in front of potential hiring managers. Your certificate’s validity will almost never expire.

Other options include starting your own company where you market yourself as an English instructor and charge individuals one-time fees or ongoing subscription payments to learn from you. You can also consider being a language exchange partner for a learner of English while you improve your Portuguese.

5 requirements to teach English in Brazil

Before you begin packing your bags to travel to Brazil, consider the following in Brazil:

1. A bachelor’s degree (preferred)

Although a degree is not strictly necessary to teach English in Brazil, the majority of educational institutions and language schools prefer it. Luckily, there’s usually no specific major required—it can be a bachelor’s degree in any field of study.

2. TEFL certification

A is required to teach English in Brazil. The typical way to get this certificate is to enroll in a course, either in person or online. Be sure your course is accredited prior to enrollment; this information should be readily available on the course’s website.

3. Knowledge of Portuguese (preferred)

Although it’s not required, when teaching English in Brazil. It makes it easier for you to relate to and comprehend your students’ learning needs. Plus, it makes it way easier for you to live day-to-day life. If you have no knowledge of Portuguese though, don’t panic! Even gaining basic knowledge with Duolingo will be helpful before you go.

4. A valid passport and visa

For most nationalities, obtaining a 90-day tourist visa through the Brazilian Consulate is a must before traveling to Brazil. After requesting an additional 90 days through the Federal Police, tourists are legally permitted to stay in Brazil for up to 180 days per year.

5. Be a native English speaker or speak at a native level (preferred)

You may be given consideration for ESL teaching positions in Brazil if you are a . However, non-native English speakers who teach English are expected to speak with native fluency. Due to unconscious bias, some employers may still favor native English speakers with citizenship from a country where English is the official language.

How to teach English in Brazil

Can you picture yourself bringing a classroom to life?

Perhaps you’re considering teaching English in Brazil but are unsure about where to start. Look no further! Read our step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and begin your journey toward becoming an English teacher in Brazil:

1. Choose a host city for teaching

If you're considering going to Brazil to work as an English teacher, you should thoroughly investigate the city or cities you want to move to, connect with locals, and use whatever resources they may have. Several ways to do this include browsing online city guides, reading newspapers, watching videos, and listening to podcasts.

2. Set some goals while researching requirements

Brazil is no exception when it comes to the variety of teaching opportunities available. It’s key that you set some goals by asking yourself a few questions about your teaching preferences.

Do you want to work for an institution or independently? Do you have a preference for teaching in a primary or secondary school or teaching adults? What are your income expectations?

It’s also important to understand the minimum requirements and certifications needed to teach English in Brazil before you start .

3. Gain a certificate from an accredited institution

Regardless of your educational background, consider acquiring a CELTA, certificate from accredited institutions that have a strong reputation within the country. A TEFL/TESOL certificate or previous experience is usually sufficient, but be aware of your learning preferences as there are several options. You may choose from programs such as or to gain insight into different types of certifications available online and in Brazil.

4. Secure accommodation

Before arriving in Brazil, arrange housing by contacting language schools directly. Schools can sometimes simplify the process by arranging single or shared accommodation.

You may also browse local real estate sites such as Zap, Selina Hostels, or even Airbnb to find affordable rooms near your desired workplace. Monthly rent tends to average around .

5. Apply for jobs

Usually upon completion of a certified TEFL or , you can opt to receive job placement assistance through the institution. If you don’t want to rely solely on that, it’s a good idea to search for suitable employment opportunities via preferred advertising platforms such as Indeed, LinkedIn, Craigslist, or specialized ESL job boards such as ESL Base or Dave's ESL Cafe.

You’re well on your way to teaching English and sharing your love of learning in Brazil.

Networking with locals or through language exchange services like or may allow you to connect and potentially secure future positions. You can also check GoAbroad for !

6. Understand Brazilian culture and language

It’s crucial to learn about and comprehend the local culture and language before beginning to teach English in Brazil. Your ability to relate to your students will improve, and your teaching will become more interesting and relevant. To bridge the gap between Portuguese and English, it is imperative to have a solid grasp of Brazilian culture and language.

7. Create your resume/CV

For each position you're applying for, use templates on Canva or a comparable program to create a unique CV and cover letter. To illustrate an enthusiasm for teaching, emphasize any prior educational experience, , and , and highlight relevant hobbies.

8. Apply for the appropriate visa

It’s important to know how to maintain a legal status for as long as you plan to teach in Brazil. For English teachers in Brazil, getting a work visa is extremely rare because doing so requires a sponsoring employer.

Due to the lengthy and expensive process, the majority of private language schools will not be willing to sponsor their English teachers. The only instructors who typically receive work visas are those who work in public schools. The likelihood that a Brazilian school will sponsor a native English teacher’s visa is influenced by a number of variables, including the school’s budget, the teacher's credentials, and the region’s need for English language education.

Therefore, the majority of those who are legally able to teach and earn payment for their services as English teachers must apply for and be issued a 90-day tourist visa. This is why most employer contracts are just for six months. You can request an additional 90 days once you arrive.

9. Obtain a CPF number

Next, apply for a Cadastro de Pessoa Física (CPF) number. This official identification, which functions similarly to a Social Security Number, is required in order to open a bank account and get paid when working in Brazil.

Visit the , complete their online form, and follow the steps to obtain a CPF number. Although having a bank account in Brazil isn't always required, it is useful for sending money back and forth between nations.

10. Use interactive teaching methods

Once you learn how to teach English in Brazil, you’re ready to hone your lesson plans.

Brazilians are known for their friendliness and engaging nature. As a result, adopting interactive teaching techniques like role plays, group discussions, and games can enhance learning. Use engaging and interactive to aid students in better developing their language abilities.

You can use technology to enhance learning by incorporating modern multimedia elements into your lesson plans. It’s important to provide ongoing feedback and assessment to help students monitor their progress and identify areas that need improvement.

What can I expect from a teaching English salary in Brazil?

When teaching English in Brazil, salary varies by location and the type of institution. The typical salary range for public school teachers is around . Although the pay may not be as high as in other Brazilian fields of employment, it is normally thought of as a livable wage.

However, the cost of living varies considerably by region, which may have an effect on the standard of living for teachers. The amount of education, the subject taught, and the teacher’s experience are some elements that affect teacher pay rates in Brazil.

Teachers with advanced degrees or other certificates tend to earn more money than those without them. Additionally, teachers may make more money when they teach subjects that are in high demand, like STEM or tech fields.

Teach English in Brazil to launch your career—or to just have an adventure!

Brazil is waiting. Time to land that teaching job!

Whether you want to or embark on an unforgettable journey by teaching English in Brazil, now is the time to start planning. Thanks to this guide, sooner than later, you will have all you need to succeed as an English teacher in one of the fastest-growing economies in the world!

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