Teach in Peru

Options for teaching in Peru

ESL teachers hoping to teach English in Peru can find jobs in major cities, as well as many smaller villages. The capital city of Lima provides the most opportunity, although there are plenty of ESL jobs in Cusco due to the booming tourism industry. TEFL certification is strongly preferred in order to teach in Peru.

Experienced teachers can also consider applying to teach English at the university level. University teaching jobs generally offer generous salaries and benefits, although requirements are strict, and positions are competitive.

Qualified teachers with two or more years of experience can apply to teach in Peru’s international schools, largely concentrated in Lima. Teachers of all levels, from nursery to high school, are encouraged to apply for these jobs, which offer high salaries by Peruvian standards in addition to competitive benefits.

Finally, for new teachers who are building experience and want to teach in Peru, volunteering is an extremely popular option. Volunteering in Peru is a fantastic way to see the country beyond its major cities, with jobs available in smaller towns and villages throughout the country.

Teach in Peru — Hiring

International schools usually begin the hiring process around October or November for the school year beginning in March. Universities, which also begin in March, may wait until January to recruit instructors.
Peru’s many language institutes hire English teachers year-round, generally on one-year contracts.

Qualifications to teach in Peru

Language schools strongly prefer TEFL-certified teachers. If you are seeking paid English teaching jobs in Peru, a TEFL course is highly recommended. Previous experience is preferred, although not always required.
In order to teach in a private international school in Lima, teachers are expected to hold a teaching license in their home state or country and have a minimum of 2 years of previous experience.

Visas for teachers in Peru

In order to work legally in Peru, teachers will need to obtain “permission to sign a contract” from the government. This can be a complicated process, although your employer should be able to help you complete it. The first step in obtaining a visa is to ensure that your birth certificate and a university degree have been legalized at a Peruvian Embassy or consulate before your arrival in the country.

Housing in Peru

Housing is most expensive in Lima, Peru’s capital. However, the cost of rent can be cut dramatically by living in a neighborhood outside of the city center or by sharing an apartment with a fellow teacher. Other large cities, such as Trujillo, Arequipa, and Cusco, offer plenty of ESL teaching jobs at a lower cost of living.

Private international schools may offer certified teachers an accommodation allowance as part of a comprehensive benefits package, and some will even provide full accommodation.

Things to do in Peru

The majority of teachers will live in the coastal city of Lima. The city’s colonial architecture and colorful markets make it a wonderful place to explore, and visitors are encouraged to make frequent stops to enjoy the area’s fresh, varied cuisine. Don’t go without trying ceviche, the seafood dish originating from Peru; its fresh, citrusy taste is distinctively Peruvian and is not to be missed.

Wherever you may be living, no trip to Peru would be complete without visiting its ancient Inca sites. The city of Cusco is located in the historic capital of the Inca empire and serves as the gateway to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous sights on the South American continent. Those with limited time can take the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, although those with the time and fitness level can undertake one of the most famous hikes in the world, the Inca Trail.

Register for a teacher account to apply for teaching jobs in Peru.