Teach English in Cambodia
One of the few TEFL markets that genuinely doesn’t require a degree by law — but work-permit enforcement is tightening, and that legal detail matters more than the marketing angle most guides lead with.
No government scheme — and a compliance detail most guides skip over
Cambodia has no EPIK-style government placement scheme. Peace Corps Cambodia and Fulbright's Cambodia ETA both exist, but Peace Corps is unpaid and both are restricted to US citizens in any case. The realistic route is an E-class visa (around $35) paired with an employer-sponsored Work Permit through Cambodia's Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT), now issued as a physical card via their online portal.
Cambodia is genuinely unusual among TEFL destinations in that it does not legally require a university degree for most language-centre roles — though reputable schools still expect a 120-hour TEFL certificate, and international schools do require a degree. The detail worth being honest about: MLVT enforcement of the work-permit requirement is tightening, and working without one risks fines, deportation, or a re-entry ban — a genuinely useful thing to know before accepting a role that doesn't offer proper sponsorship.
- No universal degree requirement for most language-centre roles
- A 120-hour TEFL/TESOL certificate, expected by reputable schools even where not legally mandated
- International school roles do require a bachelor's degree
- A valid MLVT work permit — enforcement is tightening, don't accept unsponsored roles
What you can expect to earn
Cambodia runs on a USD-based economy, which makes budgeting simple. Language centres in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap pay modestly but livably; international schools pay considerably more. Cost of living outside expat-heavy pockets is low.
| Employer type | Local currency | Approx. GBP |
|---|---|---|
| Language centre (Phnom Penh / Siem Reap) | $700–1,000/mo | £520–£745 |
| International school | up to $1,800/mo | £1,120–£1,335 |
Where to find real openings
Which TEFL Global course fits?
Even where Cambodian law doesn't require it, reputable schools expect a 120-hour certificate. Our Level 3, 120-Hour TEFL/TESOL Course (£169.50) meets that bar and helps you stand out from the unlicensed-teacher crowd MLVT is increasingly cracking down on.
Researched July 2026 from official program pages and named recruiters where cited above. Government programs, visa rules and salary bands change — always confirm current details on the official site before applying.
FAQs about teaching in Cambodia
Not legally, for most language-centre roles — Cambodia is unusual among TEFL destinations in not requiring one by law, though international schools do require a degree and reputable language centres still expect a TEFL certificate.
Yes — MLVT enforcement of the work-permit requirement is tightening, and working without a valid permit risks fines, deportation, or a re-entry ban. Only accept roles where the employer sponsors your E-class visa and MLVT permit properly.
No — Peace Corps Cambodia is restricted to US citizens, and it’s unpaid volunteer service in any case, not a paid teaching role.