Introduction

South America beckons English teachers in 2026 with its intoxicating blend of vibrant cultures, stunning natural landscapes, affordable living costs, and rapidly growing demand for English instruction. From the tango-filled streets of Buenos Aires to the Andean peaks of Chile, the Amazon rainforests of Brazil, and the Caribbean coastlines of Colombia, teaching English in South America offers educators an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in Latin American culture while building meaningful teaching careers.

The continent’s expanding economies, growing tourism industries, and increasing integration into global business markets have created surging demand for English proficiency across South America. International companies establishing regional headquarters in cities like Santiago, São Paulo, Bogotá, and Buenos Aires require employees with strong English skills, fueling demand for qualified English teachers across corporate training, private language schools, public education systems, and international schools.

This comprehensive guide examines the top destinations for teaching English in South America in 2026, providing detailed insights into salary expectations, visa regulations, living costs, required qualifications, and the diverse teaching opportunities available across this dynamic continent. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the Patagonian wilderness, cultural immersion in Peru’s ancient cities, or career development in cosmopolitan urban centers, South America’s teaching landscape offers opportunities to match every ambition and lifestyle preference.

Top 8 Destinations to Teach English in South America

1. Chile

Chile stands as South America’s most developed and stable teaching market, offering competitive salaries, professional working conditions, and stunning geographical diversity. Stretching nearly 4,300 kilometers along South America’s western edge, Chile provides English teachers with access to the Atacama Desert, cosmopolitan Santiago, Pacific coastal cities, and the dramatic landscapes of Patagonia.

English teachers in Chilean public schools earn $680-$1,020 monthly, while private schools offer $910-$1,700, and international schools provide the highest salaries at $1,700-$2,850 per month. Language schools typically pay $570-$1,140 monthly, with opportunities to supplement income through private tutoring at $11-$28 hourly. Santiago, Chile’s capital and largest city, hosts the majority of teaching opportunities, though coastal Valparaíso, northern La Serena, and southern Concepción offer positions with lower living costs.

Chile’s cost of living remains moderate for South America, with a single person requiring approximately $735 monthly, excluding rent. The country’s political stability, excellent public transportation, and well-regarded education system create an attractive environment for professional teachers seeking career development in Latin America.

2. Brazil

Brazil, South America’s largest country and economy, offers English teachers the continent’s highest earning potential combined with extraordinary cultural richness and geographical diversity. From the beaches of Rio de Janeiro to the Amazon rainforest, the colonial architecture of Salvador to the modern skyline of São Paulo, Brazil, captivates teachers with its infectious energy, music, festivals, and warm hospitality.

Teaching salaries in Brazil surpass those in other South American countries, with language schools paying $800-$1,300 per month, private schools offering $600-$1,400, and international schools paying $1,600-$3,000 per month. University positions pay $700-$1,600 monthly, while private tutoring supplements income at $15-$25 per hour. These salaries reflect Brazil’s higher cost of living compared to neighboring countries, particularly in major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília.

Brazil’s teaching market particularly values teachers with Portuguese language skills, as communication with school administrators, colleagues, and students often requires basic proficiency. While not always mandatory for hiring, learning Portuguese significantly enhances both professional effectiveness and personal experience in Brazil. The country’s visa requirements have become stricter in recent years, encouraging teachers to secure legal work visas through employer sponsorship rather than working informally.

3. Argentina

Buenos Aires, Argentina’s sophisticated capital, ranks among South America’s most culturally rich cities for English teachers, offering European architecture, world-class wine, passionate tango culture, and a thriving arts scene. Argentina’s diverse landscape encompasses the wine regions of Mendoza, the dramatic Iguazu Falls, the gaucho culture of the Pampas, and the glaciers of Patagonia.

Teaching salaries in Argentina range from $600 to $1,200 per month, depending on the institution type and location. Public schools charge $330-$690 per month; private schools charge $500-$1,100; language schools charge $360-$830; and international schools charge $1,100-$1,920 per month. Buenos Aires hosts the overwhelming majority of teaching positions, though Córdoba, Rosario, and Mendoza offer opportunities with significantly lower living costs.

Argentina’s visa process typically involves entering on a tourist visa (valid 90 days), securing employment, and then converting to a work visa with employer assistance. The process requires TEFL certification and criminal background checks. Argentina’s economic volatility creates fluctuating exchange rates, which can benefit teachers earning dollars through online teaching while living on Argentine pesos.

4. Colombia

Colombia has emerged as one of South America’s most exciting teaching destinations, shedding decades of negative perceptions to reveal a country of stunning natural beauty, warm hospitality, and rapidly improving infrastructure. From the colonial charm of Cartagena to the cosmopolitan energy of Medellín, the cultural capital of Bogotá to the coffee-growing regions of the Zona Cafetera, Colombia offers diverse experiences for adventurous teachers.

English teachers in Colombia earn $700-$1,200 monthly on average, with some programs offering comprehensive packages including a gross monthly salary of 3,169,340 COP ($1,100 USD), housing support, health insurance, and legal work permits. Colombia’s cost of living remains substantially lower than in Western countries, with average local salaries around 640,000 COP per month, allowing teachers to maintain comfortable lifestyles and travel opportunities.

Colombia requires M-5 work visas for legal employment, necessitating employer sponsorship. The visa process involves job offers from registered Colombian institutions, criminal background checks, health certificates, and proof of financial stability. Visa applications cost approximately $280, and employers must demonstrate substantial financial capacity to sponsor foreign workers. Despite bureaucratic complexities, Colombia’s warm culture, improving safety conditions, and beautiful landscapes make it increasingly popular among English teachers.

5. Peru

Peru offers English teachers authentic cultural immersion, ancient history, and South America’s most affordable living costs. Home to Machu Picchu, the Amazon rainforest, Lima’s culinary scene, and Lake Titicaca, Peru offers endless opportunities for adventure while keeping costs remarkably low. The country’s rich indigenous heritage, Spanish colonial legacy, and dramatic Andean landscapes create unique cultural experiences unavailable elsewhere.

Teaching salaries in Peru range from $500 to $1,000 per month, which represents the continent’s lower salary scale but is offset by correspondingly low living costs. Cusco, Peru’s tourist hub and gateway to Machu Picchu, offers average monthly salaries of around $500. Lima, Peru’s capital, provides higher salaries but increased expenses. Private tutoring supplements income at $10-$20 hourly, and many teachers combine language school work with private students to maximize earnings.

Peru’s exceptionally low cost of living—averaging just $500-$1,000 monthly for single people—allows teachers to live comfortably, travel extensively, and sometimes save modest amounts despite lower salaries. Traditional Peruvian meals at local restaurants cost $2-$5, while rent in shared accommodations runs $200-$400 monthly. This affordability, combined with Peru’s extraordinary cultural and natural attractions, makes it ideal for teachers prioritizing experience and adventure over financial accumulation.

6. Costa Rica

Though technically part of Central America, Costa Rica’s popularity among South American teachers warrants inclusion. Famous for its “Pura Vida” lifestyle, exceptional biodiversity, political stability, and environmental consciousness, Costa Rica offers teachers safety, natural beauty, and structured teaching programs with full legal support.

English teachers in Costa Rica earn $600-$1,000 monthly on average, with some programs offering $750-$1,100 plus comprehensive benefits including work visa sponsorship, housing assistance, health insurance, and 32 paid vacation days annually. Teaching hours typically range from 17 to 26 hours weekly, providing an excellent work-life balance for exploring Costa Rica’s beaches, rainforests, and volcanic landscapes.

Costa Rica stands out for providing legitimate work visa sponsorship through the Special Category (Categoría Especial) visa, unlike many Latin American countries, where teachers work on tourist visas. This legal pathway requires bringing apostilled documents from home countries, including birth certificates, criminal background checks, and university diplomas. The Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) healthcare system covers legally employed teachers, providing free medical care, prescriptions, and emergency services—a significant benefit absent from informal teaching arrangements.

7. Mexico

Mexico’s proximity to the United States, diverse geography, rich history, and growing economy create abundant opportunities for English teachers. From the beaches of Cancún and Playa del Carmen to the colonial cities of Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende, the bustling capital of Mexico City, and to the culinary capital of Oaxaca, Mexico offers extraordinary diversity within easy reach.

Teaching salaries in Mexico range from $500 to $1,000 per month, depending on location and institution type. Public schools charge $550-$1,100, private schools charge $825-$1,650, language schools charge $550-$1,375, while international schools charge $1,925-$2,750 monthly. Universities offer $1,100-$2,200 per month. Mexico City and Guadalajara host the majority of higher-paying positions, while smaller cities offer lower salaries but correspondingly reduced living costs.

Mexico requires FM3 work visas for legal employment, though enforcement varies significantly by region. Many language schools operate informally, creating gray areas in visa compliance. Teachers seeking long-term career stability should prioritize positions offering legal work visa sponsorship, particularly in international schools or universities. Mexico’s affordable cost of living, combined with its rich cultural heritage and convenient travel connections, makes it perennially popular among North American teachers.

8. Uruguay

Uruguay, South America’s smallest Spanish-speaking country, offers teachers a relaxed lifestyle, progressive social policies, beautiful beaches, and one of the continent’s highest living standards. Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, combines European-influenced architecture with laid-back coastal culture, while Punta del Este attracts wealthy South Americans to its glamorous beach resorts.

English teachers in Uruguay earn $900-$1,300 monthly on average, with public schools paying $625-$1,000, private schools offering $875-$1,375, language institutes providing $500-$875, and international schools commanding $1,125-$2,250 per month. Universities provide $1,000-$1,750 per month, while private tutoring pays $12.50-$37.50 per hour. These salaries provide comfortable lifestyles, given Uruguay’s moderate cost of living, which averages $730 per month for single people, excluding rent.

Uruguay’s stable democracy, low crime rates, and high quality of life create attractive living conditions, though the teaching market remains smaller than neighboring Argentina and Brazil. Most opportunities concentrate in Montevideo and Canelones, requiring teachers to be flexible about location. Uruguay’s relaxed culture, beautiful coastline, and proximity to Buenos Aires make it appealing for teachers seeking a quieter South American experience.

Comprehensive Salary Comparison Table

Note: Salary ranges represent typical earnings across various institution types. International school positions typically offer the highest salaries. All figures are approximate and subject to exchange rate fluctuations.

Top TEFL Certifications for South America

Securing employment in South America’s competitive teaching markets requires appropriate TEFL certification that Latin American employers recognize and value. Premier TEFL offers internationally recognized certifications specifically designed for teachers pursuing South American opportunities, with comprehensive job support and placement assistance throughout Latin America.

Level 5 TEFL Diploma (180-300 Hours)

The Level 5 TEFL Diploma from Premier TEFL represents the highest standard for teaching English in South America. While not always required for language school positions, Level 5 qualifications significantly strengthen applications for international schools, universities, and corporate training positions. This advanced certification demonstrates professional commitment and teaching expertise valued throughout Latin America.

Advantages for South American Teaching:

• Qualifies teachers for higher-paying positions in international schools
• Strengthens work visa applications requiring professional qualifications
• Provides comprehensive teaching methodology for diverse South American contexts
• Competitive advantage in markets like Brazil, Chile, and Argentina
• Essential for university-level teaching positions

120-Hour TEFL Certificate

The 120-hour TEFL certificate from Premier TEFL represents the minimum qualification accepted by most South American language schools and meets standard requirements for entry-level positions throughout the continent. This certification provides foundational knowledge suitable for private language schools, private tutoring, and some public school positions.

Suitable For: Teachers seeking positions in language schools throughout Argentina, Peru, Colombia, and Bolivia, where 120-hour certificates meet standard requirements. Ideal for first-time teachers beginning TEFL careers in affordable South American markets.

CELTA – Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults

The Cambridge CELTA remains highly valued throughout South America, particularly in Brazil, Chile, and Argentina’s competitive urban markets. This intensive certification includes extensive observed teaching practice, providing immediate practical experience. CELTA graduates often secure higher starting salaries and preferential consideration from prestigious language schools and international institutions.

Specialist Certifications

Beyond foundational qualifications, specialist certifications enhance employability:

• Business English Teaching: Valuable for corporate roles in Santiago, São Paulo, Buenos Aires, and Bogotá
• Young Learners Specialization: Benefits teachers targeting primary schools throughout South America
• Online Teaching Certification: Essential for supplementing income through online platforms while living in South America

For comprehensive guidance on TEFL qualifications for South American teaching, consult with Premier TEFL, which specializes in preparing teachers for successful Latin American careers with accredited certifications, practical training, and extensive job placement support.

Visa Requirements for South America

Visa requirements vary significantly across South American countries, ranging from straightforward tourist visa arrangements to complex work visa processes requiring employer sponsorship. Understanding these requirements is essential for a legal, stable teaching career.

Tourist Visa Teaching (Common but Risky)

Many South American teachers initially enter countries on tourist visas (typically 90 days), secure teaching positions, then either convert to work visas or conduct “border runs” to renew tourist status. While common practice in Argentina, Peru, and parts of Colombia, this approach carries risks including deportation, entry bans, and lack of legal protections. Teachers seeking long-term stability should prioritize positions offering proper work visa sponsorship.

Work Visa Requirements

Brazil: Work visa enforcement has intensified, requiring proper sponsorship from registered employers. Teachers need criminal background checks, TEFL certification, and often university degrees.

Chile: Requires work contracts from Chilean institutions, criminal background checks, TEFL certification, and university degrees for visa applications processed through Chilean consulates.

Colombia: M-5 work visa requires employer sponsorship from financially stable institutions, criminal background checks, health certificates, and approximately $280 visa fee. Employers must prove substantial income capacity.

Costa Rica: Special Category (Categoría Especial) work visa provides legitimate legal status. Requires apostilled birth certificates, criminal background checks, and university diplomas brought from home countries before arrival.

Mexico: FM3 work visa required for legal employment, though enforcement varies regionally. International schools and universities typically provide sponsorship.

Common Requirements Across Countries:

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Criminal background checks from home countries
• TEFL certification (120+ hours minimum)
• University degrees (preferred or required, depending on country)
• Employment contracts from registered institutions
• Proof of financial means
• Health certificates

Types of Schools and Teaching Opportunities

Private Language Schools

Private language schools represent the most abundant opportunities throughout South America, employing the majority of foreign English teachers. These institutions serve students from young learners through business professionals, typically offering hourly pay ($8-$20 per hour) or monthly salaries ($500-$1,300). Language schools value TEFL certification and native English proficiency, often without requiring university degrees.

International Schools

International schools throughout South America offer the highest salaries ($1,600-$3,000 monthly) with comprehensive benefits including housing allowances, health insurance, and professional development funding. These positions require teaching licenses, education degrees, and typically 2+ years of classroom experience. Competition is intense, with application processes occurring 6-12 months before start dates.

Public Schools

Public schools in Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Colombia increasingly employ native English speakers to enhance language programs. Salaries range from $330-$1,100 monthly, depending on the country, with stable contracts, fixed schedules, and school holiday breaks. Requirements vary significantly by country and region.

Universities

University positions offer prestige, motivated adult learners, and flexible schedules. Salaries range from $700 to $2,200 per month, depending on the country and qualifications. Universities increasingly require master’s degrees in TESOL, Applied Linguistics, or related fields.

Corporate Training

Major South American cities host international corporations that require English training for their employees. Business English specialists earn $15-$30 hourly in Santiago, São Paulo, Buenos Aires, and Bogotá, though building client bases requires networking and entrepreneurial initiative.

Private Tutoring

Private tutoring supplements income throughout South America, with rates ranging from $10 to $37 per hour, depending on the country and the teacher’s experience. This flexible arrangement allows teachers to customize schedules and maximize earnings, though income fluctuates seasonally.

Cost of Living Across South America

Chile: Moderate costs averaging $735 monthly without rent. Santiago is more expensive than regional cities. Public transport is excellent and affordable.

Brazil: Higher costs than most of South America, particularly in Rio, São Paulo, and Brasília. Regional variations are significant. Salaries are compensated accordingly.

Argentina: Economic volatility creates fluctuating costs. Buenos Aires is expensive by South American standards, but the provinces are significantly cheaper. Dollar income is beneficial.

Colombia: Very affordable, with comfortable living on teacher salaries. Medellín and Bogotá offer excellent value. The average local wage is 640,000 COP monthly.

Peru: Most affordable South American destination. $500- $1,000 per month covers all expenses. Lima is pricier than Cusco or regional cities. Meals $2-$5 at local restaurants.

Costa Rica: The most expensive Central American country. Shared housing $300-$400, private apartments $450-$600 monthly. Tourist areas are significantly more costly.

Mexico: Affordable overall with significant regional variation. Mexico City and tourist areas are more expensive. Provincial cities are very budget-friendly.

Uruguay: Higher costs than most of South America, averaging $730 monthly without rent. Montevideo is the most expensive province, and the others offer better value.

Your South American Teaching Adventure Awaits

Teaching English in South America offers unique opportunities to immerse yourself in vibrant Latin American cultures, explore extraordinary natural landscapes, learn Spanish or Portuguese, and build rewarding teaching careers—all while enjoying remarkably affordable living costs. From Chile’s cosmopolitan sophistication to Peru’s ancient heritage, from Brazil’s infectious energy to Colombia’s warm hospitality, the continent offers diverse experiences that match every teaching preference and career goal.

Success in South American teaching markets begins with proper preparation: obtaining recognized TEFL certification from providers like Premier TEFL, understanding country-specific visa requirements, researching realistic salary expectations and living costs, and approaching opportunities with cultural sensitivity and flexibility. While South American teaching salaries may not match Asian or Middle Eastern markets, the lower cost of living, rich cultural experiences, and opportunities for Spanish language acquisition create compelling value propositions for teachers prioritizing adventure and cultural immersion.

The South American teaching market in 2026 continues to expand as the continent’s economies grow, tourism increases, and integration into global business markets deepens. Whether you envision teaching business English to professionals in Santiago’s glass towers, guiding university students through academic English in Buenos Aires, working with enthusiastic young learners in Colombian schools, or building your private tutoring practice in Peru’s ancient cities, opportunities await qualified teachers willing to embrace Latin American life.

For comprehensive support in obtaining internationally recognized TEFL certification, navigating South American visa processes, and accessing job placement assistance throughout Latin America, visit Premier TEFL. With accredited TEFL courses specifically designed for South American teaching markets, expert guidance on country-specific requirements, and extensive job placement support across the continent, Premier TEFL specializes in preparing teachers for successful careers throughout Latin America.

Ready to start your South American teaching adventure? Visit www.premiertefl.com to explore internationally recognized TEFL certifications, receive expert placement guidance, and access comprehensive support for teaching throughout South America.