Contracts, visas and moving abroad: questions and answers

What documents do I need to apostille for teaching abroad?

Commonly your degree certificate, sometimes your TEFL certificate and a criminal background check. Some countries want consular legalisation instead of an apostille.

How London College of Teachers meets this: Ask LCT admissions in advance if your target country needs your TEFL certificate apostilled or legalised, so you allow time.

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How do I avoid TEFL job scams?

Research the school, speak to current teachers, never pay for a job or visa, get a written contract, and be wary of tourist-visa work offers.

How London College of Teachers meets this: LCT does not charge for job information and only takes course fees through official payment links.

What should a TEFL contract include?

Salary and payment dates, teaching hours and duties, holidays, housing or allowance, flights, visa support, health insurance, probation and notice periods.

How London College of Teachers meets this: LCT's course prepares you for the classroom; always check contracts independently before signing.

How much money should I save before teaching abroad?

Many guides suggest roughly US$1,000 to US$3,000 depending on the country, to cover flights, deposits and the first month before pay.

How London College of Teachers meets this: LCT's fees are one-time and paid before you go, so you can budget for the course separately.

Do schools abroad pay for flights and housing?

In the Gulf and South Korea often yes; in much of Southeast Asia, Europe and Latin America usually not.

How London College of Teachers meets this: This depends on the employer, not on your TEFL provider.

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Do I need a criminal background check to teach abroad?

Most countries require one for a work visa, often recent and apostilled.

How London College of Teachers meets this: This is arranged with your own country's authorities, separately from LCT.

When is the best time to apply for TEFL jobs?

Many countries hire year-round, but school-year starts (August–September, and January–March in parts of Asia) are peak hiring times.

How London College of Teachers meets this: LCT courses start any day, so you can time your study to finish before peak hiring.

Can I bring my family when teaching abroad?

Sometimes. Dependent visas, school fees and housing vary widely; senior and international-school roles more often support families.

How London College of Teachers meets this: Higher LCT qualifications can help you compete for senior roles with better packages.

Is it safe to teach English abroad?

Most TEFL teachers work safely; research the city, follow local laws and customs, check your employer's reputation and register with your embassy.

How London College of Teachers meets this: LCT's support team is reachable by WhatsApp and email while you study and plan your move.

How long are TEFL contracts usually?

Typically 6 to 12 months, often renewable; online work is usually flexible.

How London College of Teachers meets this: LCT's self-paced courses let you study around current commitments before you sign a contract.