VNAsia
Teaching in Vietnam
Vietnam's international school market is growing fast. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have the most opportunities. Salaries are rising as schools compete for qualified teachers.
Why teach in Vietnam
- Growing job market—new schools opening regularly
- Affordable cost of living
- Vibrant culture, excellent food, beautiful landscapes
- Friendly locals and growing expat community
- Good work-life balance at many schools
Salary and benefits
Typical salary range
$1,800–$3,000/month (international schools; ESL varies)
Contract length
2 years typical; 1-year sometimes for first-time hires
Savings potential
$500–1,200/month at international schools with housing
Cost of living
Low. A comfortable lifestyle is affordable on a teacher's salary.
Typical benefits
- Housing or housing allowance (common at international schools)
- Annual flights
- Health insurance
- Visa support
- Relocation allowance (some schools)
Cost of living (approximate)
- 1-bedroom apartment (HCMC center)
- 8–15M VND (~$320–600/mo)
- Meal at local restaurant
- 50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–4)
- Monthly Grab/motorbike
- 1–2M VND (~$40–80)
- Utilities
- 500,000–800,000 VND (~$20–32)
Requirements
- Teaching license from home country for international schools
- Bachelor's degree (minimum)
- Experience preferred; NQTs sometimes accepted
- Clean criminal record for work permit
Common curricula
IB, British (IGCSE), American, Cambridge. Schools specify their curriculum in job postings.
Main cities for teaching
Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang. Hiring season: January–April for August start.
Things to know
- International schools and ESL language centers are different—pay and benefits vary significantly
- Ho Chi Minh City has more schools; Hanoi is the capital with a growing market
- Work permit process can take 4–6 weeks
Frequently asked questions
- What's the difference between international schools and ESL in Vietnam?
- International schools teach full curricula (IB, etc.) and require teaching licenses. ESL roles at language centers pay less and have different requirements.
- Is Vietnam safe for expat teachers?
- Generally yes. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are safe. Petty theft exists—common sense applies.
- Can I save money teaching in Vietnam?
- Yes. International school salaries with housing allow many teachers to save $500–1,200 per month.
- Ho Chi Minh City vs Hanoi for teaching?
- HCMC has more international schools and a larger expat community. Hanoi has a growing market and slightly lower costs. Both are popular.
- When should I apply for Vietnam teaching jobs?
- January–April for August start dates. Apply 4–6 months before your target start.
Research schools before you accept
Compare teacher reviews and salary data at international schools in Vietnam. Sign up free—no paywall.