Yes you can. Speaking Thai is not a requirement for teaching English in Thailand. Even if they are fluent in the language, ESL instructors in the majority of Thailand’s language institutions are not required to speak Thai in class.
Is there a need for English teachers in Thailand?
In general, there is a great demand for English teachers in Thailand. In fact, people in Thailand and other Southeast Asian nations now have a greater desire than ever before to learn English, raising the need for ESL instructors in this region.
The growing economy also means people in Thailand now have more disposable income to spend on English education. Thus, there are more opportunities for ESL instructors, especially those with credentials like a TEFL or TESOL certificate.
In favor of ESL teachers willing to sign contracts for at least six months or a year, the majority of schools have now abandoned the idea of hiring temporary visiting teachers who teach for only a month or two before leaving.
With the government requiring English classes in public schools and the high demand for native English speakers to fill open posts, there is a tremendous need for English teachers, particularly in large cities like Bangkok.
Opportunities can also be found at a number of private language schools that cater to young people in the workforce and students who want to improve their English for travel and business.
What are the requirements for teaching English in Thailand?
You need a degree in order to teach English in Thailand. Although not officially required, an accredited TEFL certification is also crucial to finding employment in Thailand's very competitive ESL market. A master's degree is necessary for ESL teachers who want to work in universities, with an education degree being an extra benefit.
A TEFL certificate not only increases your chances of finding employment as an ESL teacher in Thailand, but also gives you the power to negotiate a higher salary. Having a TEFL certification in Thailand gives you an advantage over the crowd of teachers looking for positions as English teachers.
While a four-year degree is not required to teach in Cambodia or Laos, a bachelor's degree is necessary to be qualified for a work visa in Thailand. English teachers in Thailand are also required to provide a clear criminal history check. Additionally, ESL instructors from countries where English is a second language must pass the TOEIC exam or the IELTS with a minimum score of 600.
