With the advent of technology and the digitalization of the international economy people, these days are looking to expand their personal horizons and be at par with the notion of working abroad as a digital nomad. With the advent of online ESL teacher training courses, this lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular as you have the freedom of working from almost anywhere in the world, traveling to new destinations wherever you fancy, and meeting like-minded people along the way.
If you seek this life and want to experience a new adventure as an expatriate living overseas, Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is something that you must consider.
What is a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa is a type of visa that allows people to work remotely from a foreign country for an extended period of time. It is specifically designed for people who work online and do not need to be physically present in an office. These visas are typically valid for several months to a year and can often be extended.
The digital nomad visa is different from a traditional work visa because it is specifically designed for people who work online. Traditional work visas require people to have a job with a specific employer and be physically present in the country. Digital nomad visas do not have these requirements and are intended to attract people who work remotely and can work from anywhere.
Benefits of a Digital Nomad Visa
There are numerous perks having a digital nomad visa. First and foremost, it allows you to live and work in a foreign country legally. This means that you do not have to worry about overstaying your visa or getting in trouble with immigration authorities.
Secondly, a digital nomad visa allows you to experience different cultures and lifestyles while still being able to work and earn an income. This can be a great way to gain new perspectives and broaden your horizons.
Source: passport-photo.online
Another benefit of a digital nomad visa is that it can be a more cost-effective way to live and work abroad. Many digital nomad visas are relatively inexpensive and do not require you to have a high income or savings to qualify.
Lastly, having a digital nomad visa can be a great way to meet new people and make friends. Many countries that offer digital nomad visas also have communities of digital nomads who gather and socialize.
How to Obtain a Digital Nomad Visa
Obtaining a digital nomad visa will depend on the specific country you wish to visit. Every country fancies their own requirements and application procedure. However, there are a few general steps you can take to increase your chances of obtaining a digital nomad visa.
- Get TEFL Certified
The first and foremost thing that you need to do before getting a digital nomad is to earn your TEFL certificate. Most online companies offering lucrative opportunities need their English teachers to have at least 120-hour TEFL certification. Thus, add this feather to your cap and set yourself to start finding work.
- Research Countries that Offer Digital Nomad Visas
The first step is to research which countries offer digital nomad visas. Some of the most popular destinations for digital nomads include Estonia, Portugal, and Costa Rica. You can find information about these visas on the country’s official government website.
- Meet the Requirements
Once you have identified a country you are interested in, you will need to review the requirements for obtaining a digital nomad visa. These requirements can vary but typically include proof of income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
- Gather Required Documents
Once you have reviewed the requirements, you will need to gather the required documents. This may include a passport, proof of income, proof of health insurance, and a criminal background check.
- Apply for the Visa
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can apply for the digital nomad visa. This process can typically be done online or through a consulate in your home country.
- Wait for Approval
Upon submission of your application, all you need to do now is wait for the approval. This can take several weeks to several months depending on the country and the volume of applications.
Why Teaching English Is The Best Job For Digital Nomads?
Teaching English as a second language (ESL) has become an increasingly popular job for digital nomads and expatriates. It’s a job that offers a lot of flexibility, allows for travel, and can be done from anywhere in the world. In this article, we’ll explore why teaching English is the best job for digital nomads and expatriates.
Source: wysetc.org
1 Global Demand Is Huge
Firstly, teaching English is a job that is in high demand. According to the British Council, there are over 1.5 billion English language learners worldwide, with that number expected to increase to 2 billion by 2025. This means that there is a huge demand for qualified ESL teachers, especially in countries where English is not the first language. As a result, teaching English offers excellent job security and provides many opportunities to work abroad.
2. Minimal Start-Up Costs
Furthermore, teaching English as a second language is a job that requires minimal start-up costs. Unlike many other professions, there is no need to invest in expensive equipment or tools to start teaching English. All that is needed is a laptop and a good internet connection, which makes it an ideal job for digital nomads who are constantly on the move.
3. Offers Truly Nomadic Flexibility
Another reason why teaching English is the best job for digital nomads and expatriates are that it provides a lot of flexibility. Many ESL teaching jobs are part-time, which allows for plenty of free time to explore new places, learn new skills, or simply relax. Additionally, many schools and language centers offer flexible schedules, allowing teachers to choose when they want to work.
4. Personal Growth And Development
Moreover, teaching English as a second language is a job that allows for a lot of creativity. Unlike many other professions, teaching English requires a lot of improvisation, and teachers are encouraged to be creative and innovative in their teaching methods. This allows for a lot of personal growth and development, as teachers are constantly learning new ways to engage and motivate their students.
5. Make A Meaningful Difference In The Lives Of Others
Teaching English as a second language also offers a lot of personal satisfaction. As an ESL teacher, you have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of your students. You are helping them to achieve their goals, whether it’s improving their career prospects or simply being able to communicate more effectively with people from around the world.
Best Locations For TEFL Digital Nomads
ESL jobs as a digital nomad are not limited to a particular country or region and with the globalized economy; English is becoming the international language of culture, commerce, travel, and education. As an English speaker, there are more than 80 countries that open up its door for you.
Source: monitor.icef.com
Here are some of the top markets in the world for teaching English abroad:
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Estonia
- Iceland
- Portugal
- Georgia
- Germany
- Indonesia
- Spain
- Italy
- Costa Rica
- Barbados
- Mexico
- Thailand
- UAE
- Mauritius
Get Your Journey Started!
With the onset of the digital nomad visa, you can access an array of opportunities all around the world without having to go through the hassle of actually living there. But you might be wondering how doing a TEFL course can actually help you in your quest for a digital nomad visa. To put it quite simply, if you want to teach English online with TEFL certification , it will allow you to work and live anywhere in the world. If you’re looking for a career that allows you to travel the world, make a real difference in the lives of others, and have a lot of fun along the way, then teaching English as a second language may be the perfect job for you.
