Teaching English in Argentina: Complete Guide
TEFL opportunities, visa pathways, and living as an educator in Argentina
English teaching is one of the most accessible ways for foreigners to live in Argentina. There's consistent demand across private language institutes, international schools, corporate training, and private tutoring. While salaries at local institutes are modest, many teachers supplement income with private classes or online teaching. The work-life balance is excellent, with plenty of time to explore the country.
Visa Options
Work Visa (Sponsorship)
Language schools can sponsor work visas, though not all offer this
Student Visa
Take Spanish classes part-time while teaching
Digital Nomad + Online Teaching
Teach online for platforms like VIPKid, iTalki while living in Argentina
Requirements
- TEFL/TESOL certification (preferred but not always required)
- University degree (for better positions)
- Native or near-native English proficiency
- Criminal background check
- Some institutes require teaching experience
Income Requirements
Minimum Income Required
$800 - $2,000 USD/month
Teaching salaries vary widely by institution type
💡Supplement with private classes ($15-40/hour) for better income
Remote Work Feasibility
Online English teaching is extremely popular. Platforms like Preply, iTalki, and Cambly allow teachers to earn USD while living in Argentina.
Key Considerations:
- 1Time zone differences may require early morning or late evening hours
- 2Reliable internet is essential
- 3Popular platforms: Preply, iTalki, Cambly, VIPKid
- 4Rates typically $10-30/hour depending on experience
- 5Build a student base for consistent income
Local Job Market
Demand Level
MediumAverage Salary
ARS $800,000-1,500,000/month ($600-1,200 USD) at institutes
Key Cities:
Industries:
Tax Considerations
- Local employment requires tax registration
- Private tutoring income often goes unreported (common but not legal)
- Online teaching platforms may handle tax withholding
- Consider monotributo for freelance teaching
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Spanish to teach English?
Not for the classroom (immersion method is preferred), but Spanish helps enormously for daily life and administrative tasks.
Can I survive on just an English teacher salary?
It's possible but tight. Most teachers combine institute work with private classes or online teaching. With the blue dollar rate, $1,500/month provides a comfortable lifestyle.
When is the best time to apply for teaching jobs?
February-March (start of school year) and July-August (mid-year intake). However, language institutes hire year-round.