Are you a Filipino aspiring to teach English in the enchanting country of Vietnam? If yes, you undoubtedly realize that aside from your passion for teaching and fluency in English, there is an array of administrative tasks to handle, especially concerning the required documents. Ensuring that all paperwork is in order is crucial to embarking on your successful journey as an English teacher in Vietnam.
This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive list of documents required for Filipinos planning to work as an English teacher in Vietnam. Let’s jump right in!
🎓 Bachelor’s Degree
A Bachelor’s degree is the foundation for teaching English in Vietnam. Teaching institutions across Vietnam require proof of at least a four-year university degree from an accredited university. This degree does not necessarily need to be in the field of education. The original degree certificate and transcripts will be required.
📑 TEFL/CELTA/TESOL Certificate
Having a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate can make your job hunting significantly easier and might even help you secure higher pay! Holding any of these globally recognized certificates signifies that you are trained in teaching English to non-native speakers. Requirements may vary from 100 to 120-hour courses, so be sure to research prospective employers’ specifics. An original certificate will be required.
🛂 Passport
The validity of your passport must be at least one year by the time you apply for your work permit in Vietnam. As a Filipino, you can enter Vietnam without a visa for 21 days. However, if you plan to stay longer and work, you must secure a visa that corresponds to your purpose. Employers often help with the process of obtaining a business visa.
👮🏻♀️ Criminal Record Check
Vietnam requires a clean criminal record check from your home country or from Vietnam, depending on how long you have been residing in the country. For Filipinos, the NBI clearance (issued by the National Bureau of Investigation in the Philippines) equates to a criminal record check. Remember, it should be authenticated by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Vietnamese Embassy in Manila.
🩺 Medical Check
A health certificate confirming your good health will be required. Local hospitals in Vietnam provide such checks, but some employers might require one issued from the Philippines. In that case, the certificate must be authenticated by the DFA and the Vietnamese Embassy in Manila, like the NBI clearance.
🪪 Visa, Work Permit & Temporary Residence Card
To work legally in Vietnam, you will need a work visa (DN1, DN2), a work permit, and a temporary residence card. The process to acquire these can be complex but your employer should assist you in obtaining them. The work permit application will necessitate most of the documents listed above, including your degree and TEFL certificates, criminal background check, and medical certificate.
💼 Document Authentication
All these documents (degree, TEFL, NBI Clearance, health certificate) need to be authenticated by the Department of Foreign Affairs in the Philippines as well as the Embassy of Vietnam in Manila. After this “double authentication” process, the documents will be officially recognized in Vietnam.
🇻🇳 Document Translation
Once your documents have been authenticated, they need to be translated into Vietnamese. This should be done by a certified translation service in Vietnam, as they will also need to be notarized.
Embrace the process
Embrace the process, prepare your paperwork requirements ahead of time, and anticipate some bumps along the road. Dealing with bureaucracy may be challenging, but the reward of teaching English in Vietnam is worth the hurdles.
This beautiful country will inspire you with its diverse culture, history, cuisine, and beautiful landscapes. Plus, the warm and friendly locals make any challenges faced on the journey truly worthwhile. Indeed, the demand for English teachers in Vietnam is high, making it an ideal destination for Filipinos who wish to teach overseas.
Remember to stay patient, organized, and proactive. A last note – always have copies of your documents, just in case.
Teaching English in Vietnam offers the chance not just to enhance your career but also to experience a unique and incredible culture. With your documents ready and your spirit energized, you are surely on your way to an unforgettable journey as an English teacher in Vietnam.
Preparation is the key
Always remember the power of preparedness, no matter whether you’re an experienced overseas professional or a newcomer to the international teaching scene. Organized documentation will save you from last-minute stress and confusion, ensuring a smooth transition from the Philippines to Vietnam. However, navigating the administrative tasks of obtaining work in a foreign land shouldn’t overshadow the excitement that comes with this journey. So, plan your move with diligence, but don’t forget to relish the remarkable journey you are about to embark on!
In closing, teaching English in Vietnam can be a rewarding adventure both personally and professionally. With your qualifications, teaching skills, and the charm of the Vietnamese culture, you’re likely to have the teaching experience of a lifetime. Rest assured, the time and effort spent in preparing these documents will pay off the moment you step into a Vietnamese classroom.
This guide brought you one step closer to your dream. Take that leap of faith, pack your bag, ready your documents, and let Vietnam amaze you with its charm. Happy teaching in Vietnam, Kabayan 🇵🇭!