Move to Spain as an English Teacher: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Dreaming of La vida en España? 

Picture yourself teaching English in Spain, sipping café con leche at a plaza in Barcelona, sharing tapas in Valencia, or experiencing a lively flamenco performance in Seville. Spain’s vibrant culture, historic cities, and warm Mediterranean climate make it one of the world’s most popular destinations for teaching English, with one of the strongest TEFL job markets in Europe. 

From Madrid’s bustling nightlife and museums to the beaches of Malaga and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada near Granada, Spain offers an unbeatable mix of work and adventure.

Why Teach English in Spain?

• Great Lifestyle & Culture: Spain offers unbeatable lifestyle perks – year-round sunshine, world-class cuisine (paella, pintxos, churros), and lively festivals (La Tomatina, Feria de Abril, Semana Santa). Cities like Barcelona (famous for Gaudí’s architecture), Valencia (home of paella and the futuristic City of Arts), Seville (flamenco and Moorish palaces), Granada (the Alhambra), and Madrid (grand boulevards and nightlife) mean there’s always something to explore. 
• Easy Travel: Based in Spain, you can hop on cheap flights and trains to explore Europe and North Africa on weekends. Madrid and Barcelona are major hubs with flights to virtually anywhere in Europe, so your gap year or adventure never has to get boring. 
• Language & People: You’ll be fully immersed in Spanish life and learn the language by osmosis. Although you won’t need Spanish in the classroom (since you’ll teach in English), locals predominantly speak Spanish. Picking up even basic conversational skills will help you build friendships, navigate daily life smoothly, and attract students who prefer tutors who can communicate comfortably in both languages. 

Visa & Legal Requirements

• Student Visa Path: Because full work visas are hard to get, many non-EU teachers use a Spanish student visa. To qualify, you enroll in a recognized language school or TEFL program in Spain and apply for a study visa at your local consulate about 3 to 4 months before you plan to leave. International TEFL Academy offers special Teach & Study Visa programs in Barcelona and Madrid that bundle accredited TEFL courses with Spanish classes, making it easier to meet visa rules.

A common question is whether you need a university degree to teach English in Spain. Many schools prefer candidates with degrees, but it’s not always mandatory. For instance, International TEFL Academy’s Barcelona student visa program doesn’t require a degree, while the Madrid program does. Public schools usually require degrees, but private academies and tutoring positions often don’t.

Finding Teaching Jobs

English teachers are highly sought after throughout Spain. Language schools and government programs actively recruit TEFL-qualified instructors across cities large and small. The main hiring periods occur from late August through October, aligning with the new school year, and again in January for spring semester roles. Government-sponsored assistant programs like Spain’s NALCAP typically accept applications in winter or spring for fall placements.

To land a teaching position, prepare your resume in advance and search for opportunities through local language academies, international schools, and online job platforms. Networking via expat groups and TEFL alumni is also helpful. International TEFL Academy provides robust job-placement support, including guaranteed interviews for participants in their Madrid visa programs. 

On average, expect to earn around €700 to €1,100 monthly ($800 to $1,250 USD). Many teachers supplement this by tutoring privately (€15 to €25 per hour) or teaching online.

TEFL Certification Options

A quality TEFL certificate is key to getting hired. International TEFL Academy offers intensive in-person courses in Spain. For example, a 4-week classroom course in Barcelona that covers all aspects of teaching includes live teaching practice. These ITA courses are OFQUAL Level 5 accredited and capped at small class sizes. 

Getting TEFL certified not only boosts your confidence and skills, but many employers will prefer it.

Volunteer & Internship Teaching Programs

If you want experience before landing a paid role, consider volunteer or internship programs:

• International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ): IVHQ runs a Youth Support volunteering program in Barcelona. Volunteers work in after-school centers helping underserved children (ages 5 to 18) with homework, activities, and English practice as part of a youth support team. 
• Intern Abroad HQ: Explore education internships in Spain! Education interns assist in local schools or language academies, gaining classroom experience under qualified teachers. Intern Abroad HQ programs often include placement help and can even offer college credit.
  
  
• GoEco – Barcelona Youth Empowerment: GoEco’s program places volunteers in Barcelona after-school centers to mentor and teach English to kids from disadvantaged backgrounds. You’ll assist with lessons, organizing activities, and helping students develop life skills. 
• Volunteer with Children: Join this rewarding volunteer program by GVI in Barcelona’s vibrant Nou Barris district, where you’ll support children’s growth through creative, educational, and recreational activities.

These options let you give back to the community, gain some work experience in Spain, and make local connections – a great stepping stone toward paid teaching jobs.

Culture Tips & Life in Spain

To make the most of your time in Spain, keep these cultural insights in mind:

• Learn Basic Spanish: While you’ll teach classes in English, knowing some Spanish greatly eases daily interactions. Even simple phrases like “buenos días” (good morning), “por favor” (please), and “gracias” (thank you) show respect and friendliness.
• Respect Siesta Time: Many businesses close during the mid-afternoon for a siesta break (typically from 2 PM to 5 PM). Plan your errands accordingly.
• Adapt to Late-Night Culture: Social life in Spain often runs late—expect dinners to start around 8 PM or later, with nightlife continuing into the early hours.
• Participate in Local Traditions: Joining local events such as tapas nights, festivals, or flamenco shows is a great way to connect with the community and enrich your experience.
• Dress Appropriately: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending formal events to show cultural sensitivity.
• Be Flexible with Punctuality: Spaniards often have a relaxed approach to punctuality, affectionately called the “mañana” (tomorrow) attitude. A little patience and flexibility go a long way.

¡Vámonos a España!

Teaching English in Spain can be an unforgettable adventure.

It’s a great way to support yourself while fully immersing in Spanish life. With the right preparation (TEFL cert, visa paperwork) and an open, enthusiastic attitude, you’ll be set for an amazing journey. 

Buena suerte y disfruta España!