Teaching English in ItalyBack to Tefl World

Why Choose Italy?

Dreaming about sharing your language skills while enjoying la dolce vita? Italy continues to attract new and seasoned TEFL teachers because there’s a steady need for English instructors.

Italy's love of food, community and a slower pace of life offers a refreshing change if you’re coming from a hectic work culture. While pay as a TEFL teacher tends to be on the modest side and navigating visas can be tricky for non‑EU citizens, the chance to live among ancient history and vibrant street cafés often outweighs the challenges.

Getting Qualified

To work legally and competitively, you’ll want:

• A 120‑hour TEFL certification: this is the standard most language schools expect.
• A degree (preferable): universities and international schools usually ask for one, but many private academies will hire teachers without degrees if they’re well‑trained and confident in the classroom.
• Experience (optional): previous classroom experience is an asset, yet many entry‑level positions and summer camps are open to those fresh from training.
• Basic Italian: not required, but learning some everyday phrases makes life easier and can help when dealing with parents or younger learners.
• Right to work: EU passport holders have a smoother path. Non‑EU teachers will need to secure an appropriate visa.

Understanding Visas

If you hold an EU passport, you’re free to live and work in Italy. Others should explore these options:

Student visas allow enrollment in Italian language or university courses and typically permit up to 20 hours of work per week.

Digital nomad/remote worker visas were introduced in 2024. Applicants must prove income of about €24,789 per year and that the earnings will come from the work they plan to do in Italy. Details are still evolving.

Self‑employment visas (lavoro autonomo) require evidence of qualifications, a business plan and enough funds to support yourself.

School‑sponsored work visas are rare; only a handful of institutions will assist with paperwork.

Teaching on a tourist visa is no longer tolerated and can lead to fines or deportation. Always confirm up‑to‑date requirements via an Italian consulate.

When and How to Apply

Most hiring follows the school year. The busiest recruitment period is May through August for jobs starting in September. A smaller wave sometimes occurs in January. Being in the country helps, as many employers favour candidates available for face‑to‑face interviews.

Effective job‑hunting strategies include:

• Reaching out directly: tailor your CV and introduction for each school you contact.
• Checking job boards: TEFL‑focused sites (including TEFLHub’s jobs board) advertise positions, though many roles are filled informally.
• Pounding the pavement: if you’re already there, visiting schools in person with your CV can make a strong impression.
• Networking: join local teacher groups on social media and attend language‑exchange events – many vacancies are shared by word of mouth.

What Kinds of Jobs Are Available?

Here’s a quick overview of common roles and typical pay ranges. Figures vary by location and your experience.

Language schools

Academic‑year contracts (around 9–10 months) with roughly 20–25 teaching hours per week; expect split shifts and occasional travel to corporate clients.

€12–€25/hour

Public‑school assistantships

The British Council places about 40 assistants annually, working 12 hours per week.

€850–€1,100/month

International schools

Require a teaching qualification (e.g., PGCE) and experience.

From €2,500/month, often with benefits like housing

Private tutoring

Flexible and often necessary to top up earnings.

€15–€30/hour

Summer camps

Short placements in June–August; accommodation and meals typically included.

€245–€250/week

Online teaching

Can supplement income during quieter months.

Comparable to private tutoring

*Many teachers mix several roles to create a full timetable.

Pay & Living Costs

Monthly earnings: Teachers on school contracts generally take home €1,000–€1,400 per month. Private lessons and online work help increase income.

Housing: Shared accommodation costs around €300–€600/month for a room and €600–€1,000/month for a studio or small flat. Add €100–€200 for utilities and internet.

Food & transport: Budget €150–€250/month for groceries and €30–€40 for a monthly transport pass. Eating out is affordable: a simple restaurant meal is often €12–€20.

Regional variation: Northern cities (e.g., Milan, Bologna) are pricier, while southern cities like Naples or Bari are cheaper. Most teachers break even or save a little if they tutor privately.

Start‑up funds: Bring at least €1,500–€2,000 to cover your first month or two.
 

Where to Live and Work

Rome has plenty of schools and corporate clients but also high competition and living costs.

Milan is the business capital; there’s strong demand for Business English, but rents are high.

Florence offers numerous schools and a rich cultural experience.

Naples and other southern cities tend to be more affordable and attract younger learners.

Smaller towns like Bari, Lecce, Perugia and Bologna provide a slower pace and lower rents, though you may need to network more actively to find work.

Rural posts are uncommon and typically arranged through local contacts.

Classroom Culture & Tips

Expect mixed abilities: You may teach groups where students vary widely in level. Prepare adaptable lessons and don’t be surprised by late arrivals.

Dress codes differ: Some schools are formal, others are laid‑back. Start on the smart side and adjust as you go.

Confidence over perfection: Many Italians know grammar but lack speaking confidence. Praise participation and focus on fluency before accuracy.

Involved parents: Families, especially of young learners, like regular updates. Maintain open, professional communication.

Growing Your TEFL Career

Italy can be a springboard into specialised TEFL areas. Many teachers start with a mix of school work and private students, then branch into Business English, exam preparation or young learners’ classes. After a couple of years, you might pursue advanced qualifications like the DELTA or a master’s to open doors to academic‑coordinator roles, international schools or universities. Others choose to go fully freelance, building a roster of private and online clients.

Friendly Advice Before You Go

Italy rewards patience and flexibility. Arrive with some savings, be open to combining different types of work and take time to build relationships – both with employers and within your local community. With the right preparation, you’ll soon be enjoying fresh pasta and lively conversations while helping your students grow. Buona fortuna!