Are you thinking about teaching abroad? 

You’re not alone. 

Thousands of teachers each year take their careers overseas in search of new experiences, better work-life balance, and opportunities they simply can’t find at home.  Whether you’re a newly qualified teacher looking for adventure or an experienced educator ready for a fresh challenge, international teaching can open doors you never knew existed. But is it right for you? Here’s a balanced look at the pros, cons, and insider advice to help you make an informed decision.
 

The Pros of Teaching Abroad

1. Travel Opportunities You Can’t Get Anywhere Else

One of the biggest perks is the ability to explore the world while doing what you love. Weekends, half-terms, and holidays suddenly become opportunities to:

• Visit countries you’ve only dreamed of
• Explore new cultures and cuisines
• Immerse yourself in different landscapes 

When you’re based in regions like the Middle East, Europe, or Southeast Asia, flights are often short, cheap, and frequent, meaning the world becomes a lot more accessible.
2. Competitive Salaries & Attractive Benefits Packages

International schools often offer significantly stronger financial packages than many teachers receive at home. Common inclusions are:

• Tax-free salaries (in many locations)
• Free or subsidised accommodation
• Annual flights
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Bonus structures or gratuity pay
• Relocation allowances
• FREE school places for your children

For many teachers, the ability to save money and live comfortably is a game-changer and a major reason they stay abroad long-term.

3. Exposure to New Cultures & Ways of Life

Teaching abroad is not just about the job; it’s a full lifestyle shift. You’ll experience:

• New languages
• Different traditions and customs
• Diverse student populations
• Internationally minded colleagues
• A broader worldview that stays with you for life

Living abroad teaches resilience, adaptability, and empathy in ways a classroom alone never can.

4. Professional Growth in International Environments

International schools often have strong CPD budgets, modern facilities, and forward-thinking leadership teams. Many teachers find that:

• Career progression is faster
• Leadership roles are more accessible
• New curricula and pedagogies expand their skill set
• They develop a global network of education professionals

It’s common for teachers abroad to progress to subject leaders, coordinators, heads of year, or senior leadership roles earlier than they would at home.

5. A Better Work-Life Balance

While this varies by school, many international schools promote:

• Smaller class sizes
• Strong parental support
• More planning and collaboration time
• A culture of wellbeing

For many teachers, this shift leads to greater job satisfaction and a healthier lifestyle overall.

The Cons of Teaching Abroad

It’s important to stay realistic, too. Like any major life change, teaching overseas has its challenges.

1. Distance From Family & Friends

Homesickness is real, especially during events you can’t attend. Time zones can also make staying in touch more difficult.

2. Adjusting to a New Culture

Not every cultural difference will feel comfortable immediately. From local laws to social norms, it may take time to adjust, and mistakes can happen along the way.

3. Variable School Quality

International schools vary greatly. Some offer exceptional support, while others may not meet expectations. Doing your research and using a platform like Teacher Recruit to check vacancies and school info helps avoid surprises.

4. Visa & Paperwork Requirements

International moves come with admin:

• Document attestation
• Police checks
• Medical tests
• Visa processes

It can be time-consuming, but reputable schools usually guide you through every step.

Insider Advice for Teachers Considering the Move

1. Do your research

Look into the school, leadership team, curriculum, location, and cost of living. Not all packages stretch the same in every country.

2. Prioritise a school’s culture, not just salary

A supportive workplace often matters more than a bigger salary.

 3. Connect with teachers already living there

Ask honest questions about:

• Workload
• Lifestyle
• Accommodation
• Safety
• Weekend activities

Personal experience is priceless.
 

4. Consider your long-term goals

International teaching can accelerate your career. Think ahead about where you want it to take you.

5. Use technology to make the search easier

Platforms like Teacher Recruit streamline the entire process:

• Suggested jobs based on your profile
• Easy applications
• A mobile app to browse and apply on the go
• Schools that are hiring right now
• Clear job requirements and benefits

No more endless searching, just roles that genuinely match your experience and goals.

So, Should You Teach Abroad?

If you’re open to adventure, eager to grow personally and professionally, and ready to experience life in a whole new way, teaching abroad can be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make. Like any big move, it comes with challenges, but for many teachers, the benefits far outweigh them.

Sign up to Teacher Recruit today and we'll help you find your perfect overseas teaching role.