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Why Teach in Italy?
Italy offers more than world-class art, ancient history, and extraordinary cuisine — it’s a country where teaching English allows you to live la dolce vita whilst immersing yourself in one of the world’s most culturally rich destinations. From Rome’s ancient grandeur to Milan’s cosmopolitan energy, Florence’s Renaissance splendour to Tuscan hilltop towns, opportunities stretch across the entire country.
Italian students often have strong grammar foundations but need support building fluency and confidence in speaking. If you enjoy interactive lessons, cultural exchange, and expressive classroom environments, Italy can be deeply rewarding.
Italy is best suited to teachers who prioritise lifestyle and experience over high savings potential. Salaries are modest, but the quality of life is exceptional.
Italy at a Glance
- Best for: Culture lovers and lifestyle-focused teachers
- Typical pay: €15–30 per hour (language schools)
- Monthly income: €1,000–1,500 (part-time mix)
- Savings potential: Low–Moderate
- Degree required: Preferred (not always mandatory)
- Visa difficulty: Easy for EU / Challenging for non-EU
- Peak hiring: April–June (for September start)
What You’ll Love
- Walkable historic cities filled with culture and café life
- Expressive, engaged students
- Long lunches and genuine work-life balance
- Easy European travel opportunities
Be Realistic About
- Modest savings potential
- In-person job hunting expectations
- Reduced summer hours (June–August)
- Challenging visa process for non-EU citizens
Requirements and Qualifications
Education & Certification
A recognised 120-hour TEFL/TESOL certification is essential. CELTA is particularly valued in competitive cities such as Rome, Milan, and Florence.
A bachelor’s degree is not always required for private language schools, but it significantly improves access to:
- Higher hourly rates
- Public school roles
- International schools (degree + teaching licence required)
- Visa sponsorship opportunities
Teaching Experience
Entry-level teachers can find work, particularly in smaller cities. Experienced teachers gain access to better pay and more stable contracts.
Language Requirements
Italian is not mandatory for teaching, but even basic conversational ability improves daily life and integration considerably.
Visas & Work Permits
EU Citizens
You may live and work freely in Italy without visa complications.
Non-EU Citizens – Most Common Route
Student Visa + Part-Time Work
- Enrol in an accredited Italian course or university programme
- Apply for a student residence permit (permesso di soggiorno per studio)
- Work part-time (up to 20 hours per week)
Requirements typically include proof of funds (€6,000–8,000 annually), accommodation confirmation, health insurance, and valid passport documentation.
Work Visa Sponsorship
Rare for language schools. More realistic for licensed teachers at international schools.
Important: Always confirm current visa requirements through official Italian consulate resources before making plans.
When to Apply
- April–June: Peak hiring for September start
- Late August: Final vacancies
- January: Limited mid-year hiring
- Year-round: Occasional replacement roles
Pro Tip: Being physically present in Italy 4–8 weeks before September greatly improves your chances.
Where to Teach
Rome
Highest job concentration, strong expat community, higher living costs.
Milan
Business English demand, highest salaries — and highest rents.
Florence
Tourism-driven demand, mid-sized and highly liveable.
Bologna
University city with consistent demand and lower living costs.
Southern Italy & Islands
Lower competition and costs, though more initiative required in job hunting.
Types of Jobs & Salaries
Job TypeTypical PayNotesLanguage Schools€15–30/hourMost common; evenings/weekends typicalPrivate Tutoring€20–40/hourStrong income supplementPublic Schools€1,200–1,600/monthDifficult for non-EUInternational Schools€2,000–3,500/monthRequires licence + experience
Reality Check: Most teachers break even or save €100–300 monthly unless working in international schools.
Cost of Living
Housing
- Milan: €800–1,200+
- Rome/Florence: €700–1,000
- Smaller cities: €500–800
Monthly Living Costs (excluding rent)
- Milan: €800–1,200
- Rome/Florence: €700–1,000
- Smaller cities: €600–850
Plan Your Budget
Classroom & Cultural Tips
- Expect lively, expressive classrooms
- Focus on speaking confidence over grammar perfection
- Dress smartly — presentation matters
- Learn basic Italian to improve integration
- Embrace slower pacing and relationship-based culture
Is Italy Right for You?
- Perfect if: You value culture, lifestyle, and European access
- Challenging if: You need high savings or guaranteed sponsorship
Ready to Start Your Italian Adventure?
Teaching English in Italy combines modest income with extraordinary cultural immersion. If you’re realistic about visas, open to in-person job hunting, and excited by Italian life, it can be one of Europe’s most enriching teaching destinations.
