Country Guides: Costa Rica

Costa Rica lives up to its name as the ‘rich coast’ in more ways than one.  As the most affluent country in Central America, it also boasts 5 per cent of the world’s bio-diversity across its beach, tropical rainforest and volcanic landscapes. It is revered for its stability, having abolished its army in 1948, and its concentrated efforts in raising levels of literacy, healthcare and quality of life. Meanwhile, proactive conservation has made it a top eco-tourist destination.

The capital city of San Jos is the country’s engine room. It may not have the visual allure of the rest of the country but it does exude a cosmopolitan air; it is ultimately the springboard from which to explore the nation’s treasures. From the cloudforest of Monteverde to the nesting turtles on the Nicoya Peninsula, a comprehensive network of buses and aeroplanes will take you anywhere you want to go.

Demand For Teachers

High

Main TEFL Regions

San José, Manuel Antonio

Main Types of Teacing

• ESL Private Language Institutes: General English, Business English, TOEFL, ECCE
• University Language Programs: General English, TOEFL, English for Specific Purposes
• Summer Camps: General English

Busiest Periods

Year round

Salary

• US$15-40 per hour
• Pay is commensurate with a teacher's qualifications and experience.

Tax

10-25%

Contracts

3-24 months

Visa Requirements

Enter on a tourist VISA and then file for a temporary residence permit

Requirements

• TEFL qualification
• English speaker