A lot of teachers jump at the chance to work abroad—and who can blame them? The excitement of living in a new country, earning a competitive salary, and having housing covered is hard to resist.
But in all that excitement, it’s easy to overlook the fine print in a contract.
That’s where problems can pop up. Things like unpaid overtime, vague visa support, or one-sided termination policies that leave teachers in a tough spot.
It’s a common assumption that most teaching contracts are pretty much the same, but the truth is, schools around the world handle pay, benefits, and job expectations very differently.
Taking the time to read and understand the details can save a lot of headaches down the road. It’s the best way to make sure you’re getting fair pay, proper legal protections, and a healthy work-life balance.
A solid contract doesn’t just protect you- it sets the stage for a great teaching experience abroad.
Am I Being Paid Enough for the Cost of Living?
A high salary on paper does not always translate to financial comfort. Teachers must compare their salary to the cost of living in the country they are considering.
Be sure to ask yourself, Does my salary match the cost of living?
Key questions to ask:
- How does the salary compare to the cost of rent, food, and transportation?
- Are there additional allowances for housing or airfare?
- Is the salary taxed? If so, how much will be deducted?
Example: A job in Tokyo may offer a higher salary than one in Bangkok, but Tokyo’s living costs are significantly higher. A teacher earning $3,500 per month in Bangkok with a housing allowance may have more disposable income than one earning $4,500 in Tokyo without additional benefits.
Tip: Research local prices using cost-of-living calculators to get an accurate picture of expenses.
Are the Benefits Covering My Needs?
International schools and language centers often provide benefits beyond salary.
These extras can make a significant difference in a teacher’s quality of life and savings potential.
Essential benefits to look for:
- Housing: Fully furnished accommodations or a housing stipend can significantly cut expenses.
- Airfare reimbursement: Many schools cover flights at the start and end of the contract.
- Health insurance: Confirm whether the coverage meets international standards and includes dependents.
- Retirement contributions: Some contracts include pension plans or savings programs.
- Paid leave: Ensure sick days, vacation time, and holiday breaks align with expectations.
Example: A school in Dubai may offer tax-free salaries but limited health insurance, while a job in China may provide comprehensive health coverage, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
Tip: Request details on health coverage and ensure it includes emergency medical evacuation if needed.
How Many Hours Will I Really Be Working?
Teaching hours differ by country and institution. Some contracts specify only classroom hours, while others include lesson planning, meetings, and extracurricular duties.
Questions to clarify:
- What are my expected teaching hours per week?
- Are lesson planning and meetings included in working hours?
- Is overtime paid, or is extra work considered part of the job?
Example: A contract stating 25 teaching hours per week may sound ideal, but if unpaid meetings and lesson planning add 15 extra hours, the workload could become overwhelming.
Tip: Ask to speak with current teachers at the school to get insight into actual working conditions.
Is the Visa Process Clear and Covered?
A strong contract should outline visa arrangements, work permits, and legal protections.
Key details to check:
- Who arranges and pays for my work visa?
- What happens if my visa application is delayed or denied?
- Does the contract include a termination policy that protects both parties?
Example: Some schools in South Korea sponsor E-2 teaching visas, covering all associated costs, while others require teachers to pay for the process upfront and reimburse later.
Tip: Ensure visa costs are clearly outlined and avoid contracts requiring teachers to work on tourist or business visas, as these may be illegal.
How Long Am I Committing, and What Happens Next?
Commitment length and renewal policies impact career flexibility. Some contracts lock teachers into long-term agreements, while others provide short-term options.
Things to consider:
- What is the contract length, and are there penalties for early termination?
- Does the employer provide a clear renewal process?
- Are there performance-based bonuses or salary increases for renewal?
Example: A two-year contract in the UAE may offer a completion bonus, while a one-year contract in Vietnam may allow teachers to leave sooner without financial penalties.
Tip: Read termination clauses carefully, as some contracts impose high fines for early departure.
Am I Confident in My Contract?
Teachers who carefully review their contracts avoid misunderstandings and set themselves up for a positive experience abroad.
Key takeaways:
- Compare salary with the cost of living, including taxes and allowances.
- Ensure essential benefits like housing, health insurance, and flights are covered.
- Clarify work hours, overtime policies, and workload expectations.
- Confirm visa sponsorship details and legal protections.
- Understand contract length, renewal options, and termination policies.
Before signing any contract, teachers should research, ask questions, and, when possible, seek advice from experienced international educators.
Ready to find the right teaching job? Explore opportunities with Teach Away and start your journey abroad.
