Teach English in Ukraine

Work & Visas

How do I find work?

There are lots of different options for finding work; you can contact schools or other institutions directly, apply for open positions found through advertisements, or work through a placement program to find jobs teaching English as a second language in Ukraine.

Institutions that employ English teacher on an ongoing basis include:

• American Academy of Foreign Languages (Based in Russia with a sister office in Ukraine's capital of Kyiv)
• International House in Kyiv
• The London School of English, also in Kyiv
• British Council in Ukraine

Each of these prefers TEFL certification and experience teaching English as a foreign language. For a directory of English schools in Ukraine check out the VisaRUs site.

Can I find work while in-country?

If you’re a native English speaker there are plenty of opportunities for finding work in country. Private language schools are mainly located around the capital of Kyiv but more schools are cropping up in smaller cities such as Odessa and Kharkiv.

What is the usual hiring process?

It’s the usual process of sending off a CV and passport photos and awaiting an interview. The complications with work permits mean that applying before you go is the best idea.

There is however a shortage of native English speaking teachers positions can be applied for in country by approaching schools but an interview will still be necessary before being given a position. Whether finding work from home or once you arrive, it’s important to maintain a professional appearance.

Is a work visa required to find paid work?

The situation regarding permits and visas can be quite complicated. In general to obtain a work permit you need to be invited to work by one of the schools. Many schools that do advertise in the international press will offer to arrange visas prior to your arrival. It is quite common to arrive on a tourist visa and apply for a work visa when you find a job but this will mean a whole lot of paperwork.

It’s better overall to come on a business visa even if you’re not sure of finding work. If you are in Ukraine on a private visa and begin teaching English, just remember to get a business visa when your current visa expires.

Work visa requirements:

• English speaker
• TEFL qualification