Passport
At least 6 months' validity — needed for the ordinary visa and every extension.
teach english in cambodia · 2026 guide
Teach English in Cambodia (No Degree Possible)
Cambodia is one of the few regional routes worth researching properly if you do not have a bachelor's. That means fewer barriers—not zero standards, zero paperwork or instant-job magic.
NO DEGREE POSSIBLE · TEFL MATTERS
Degree: not always requiredTEFL: 120 hours+ recommendedPay: roughly US$700–$1,200/monthPhnom Penh has most jobs
the quick answer
Requirements at a glance
| Degree | No degree | TEFL | Pay | Hardest part |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preferred by stronger employers, but not always a legal baseline | Possible with some employers; TEFL and professionalism matter more | A credible 120-hour course is the sensible primary route | Roughly US$700–$1,200 monthly for many first roles | Separating legal, reputable schools from casual offers |
how long it actually takes
Visa & paperwork timeline
- 12–8 weeks
Finish your TEFL
Without a degree this is the document doing the heavy lifting. 120 hours minimum.
- 21–4 weeks
Criminal record check
Home-country police certificate. Not always demanded, but reputable schools and work-permit paperwork often ask.
- 3Same day to 2 weeks
Arrive on the correct visa
Most teachers enter on an ordinary (E) visa rather than a tourist visa, because only the E class can be extended for work.
- 41–4 weeks
Apply and interview locally
Phnom Penh hiring is largely in-person: walk-in CVs, demo lessons, quick starts. Busiest around term changes.
- 51–2 weeks
Extend your visa (EB)
Employment extension through an agent or the immigration office, typically for 6 or 12 months.
- 62–4 weeks
Work permit and medical
Employer-supported work permit application plus a health check. Confirm who pays before signing.
timings are typical, not promised — queues move.
pack the folder
Documents you need
TEFL certificate
120-hour minimum. Your main credential if you have no degree.
Degree certificate (if you have one)
Not always required, but it opens better schools and higher pay.
Criminal record check
Home-country police certificate. Bring it even if the advert does not mention it.
Medical certificate
Usually done locally as part of the work-permit process.
CV, photos and references
Printed CVs and passport photos genuinely help — a lot of hiring still happens face to face.
TEFL requirements in Cambodia
There is no single nationwide employer checklist. A credible 120-hour TEFL gives a no-degree applicant something concrete to show: assessed study, lesson planning and commitment.
- → 120-hour+ TEFL
- → Clear CV and intro video
- → References if available
- → Legal visa and work-permit plan
Cambodia teaching visa (any passport)
UK citizens still need the correct immigration and work status. Employers and rules vary, so confirm the current ordinary/business visa extension and work-permit process rather than relying on old forum posts.
How much English teachers earn
Many public and language-school roles fall around US$700–$1,200 monthly. Hours may be split across mornings and evenings. International-school salaries are a different market with higher qualification demands.
Teaching with no degree
This is the real possibility, not a promise. Phnom Penh has the deepest market. A solid TEFL, sharp demo, references and willingness to apply locally can matter more when the degree box is empty.
searched at 2am. answered.
People also ask
Can I teach English in Cambodia without a degree?
Yes, some employers hire without one and a bachelor's is not always the core immigration barrier. Better schools may still require it.
Do I need TEFL to teach English in Cambodia?
Not every employer makes it mandatory, but a credible 120-hour TEFL is strongly recommended—especially without a degree or experience.
What visa does a UK citizen need to teach in Cambodia?
You need the current visa extension and work-permit setup that permits employment. Confirm the exact route with official sources and the employer.
How much do English teachers earn in Cambodia?
Many public and language-school roles pay roughly US$700–$1,200 monthly. Hours, school quality and experience create a wide spread.
Where can I teach English in Cambodia?
Phnom Penh has the largest job market. Siem Reap and other cities have roles, but openings are usually fewer.
Can I teach in Cambodia with no experience?
Some entry schools hire beginners. A TEFL, prepared demo lesson and professional application give you a much better shot.
Is Cambodia good for first-time English teachers?
It can be, particularly for no-degree applicants, but school quality and contracts vary. Check hours, legal status and pay dates carefully.
Can I save money teaching English in Cambodia?
Maybe, but entry pay is modest. Shared housing and local spending help; imported habits and irregular hours can wipe out savings.
How do I get a TEFL certificate in the UK before teaching in Cambodia?
Take an accredited online TEFL course UK employers recognise — a 120-hour certificate is the standard entry level and a Level 5 reads stronger. The same accredited online courses are open worldwide, including the US, Canada, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Most people finish inside 60 days, then apply for Cambodia roles.
the course call
Start with a proper 120-hour TEFL.
Because a degree is not always required, a credible 120-hour TEFL is the primary recommendation. It does not guarantee a job; verify school reputation, visa status, work permit and contract first.