News

05/01/2025, 16:36 PM

What Should Be Noted When Hiring Foreign Teachers?

Hiring foreign teachers for schools, English centers, or businesses is becoming a popular trend in Vietnam. However, to ensure quality teaching and compliance with legal regulations, agencies should pay attention to the following important points:

1. Meeting Legal Requirements

What Should Be Noted When Hiring Foreign Teachers?

Compliance with legal regulations is the most critical factor when hiring foreign teachers. Specifically:

  • Work Permit: Teachers must have a valid Work Permit to legally work in Vietnam. This not only requires the teacher to meet requirements for qualifications, teaching certificates, criminal record, health check, etc., but also the Recruitment Agency must provide the necessary legal documents as mandated by current laws.
  • Valid Working Visa: Foreign teachers must hold a valid working visa or Temporary residence card for lawful stay in Vietnam (not a tourist visa, e-visa, or temporary visa).
  • Labor Contract: Ensure a clear and transparent labor contract specifying the rights and responsibilities of both parties.

2. Verifying Qualifications and Experience

The quality of foreign teachers' teaching depends largely on their professional qualifications and experience. Pay attention to:

  • Professional Degrees: Priority to teachers with degrees in English pedagogy or university graduates holding international English teaching certificates such as TESOL, TEFL, CELTA, or higher qualifications in teaching.
  • Work Experience: Teachers with experience in multicultural environments or in Vietnam will adapt more easily.
  • Background Check: Verify personal and professional backgrounds to ensure safety and credibility.

3. Understanding Vietnam’s Teaching Culture

Foreign teachers should be oriented and trained on Vietnamese teaching culture to avoid unexpected misunderstandings. Key points include:

  • Work Manners: Be punctual, well-prepare lessons, and adhere to the school or center’s regulations.
  • Communication Style: Maintain polite and respectful interactions with students, parents, and colleagues.
  • Teaching Methods: Combine modern teaching styles with approaches that suit Vietnamese students.

4. Professional Attire and Appearance

Teachers should dress appropriately for the teaching environment. For example:

  • For Preschool and Elementary: Wear neat and friendly outfits, avoiding overly formal or unsuitable attire for children.
  • For Secondary School and Adults: Choose professional attire such as shirts, trousers, or long skirts.

5. Communication with Stakeholders

Foreign teachers often work with diverse stakeholders and should consider the following:

  • With Teaching Assistants: Collaborate effectively with teaching assistants to deliver lessons efficiently. Teaching assistants also support cultural connections and handle situations that arise in the classroom.
  • With School Staff: Respect school policies and maintain regular communication to adapt teaching methods as needed.
  • With Parents: Handle inquiries about students' progress professionally, with clear and open explanations.

6. Costs and Benefits for Foreign Teachers

  • Reasonable Salary: Salary should be considered in accordance with the experience and capacity of the teacher, as well as following the general market level.
  • Support for Teachers: Provide assistance with housing, transportation, or orientation when teachers first arrive in Vietnam, which ensures their comfort and enhances teaching quality.

7. Partnering with a Reputable Teacher Recruitment Agency

  • If the recruitment process is challenging, partnering with a foreign teacher recruitment agency can be an optimal solution.
  • Byan Teach is a leading agency in Ho Chi Minh City, offering high-quality native-speaking teachers with a professional process, from selection and training to legal support.

Hiring foreign teachers brings numerous benefits but also presents challenges if not well-prepared. Ensure compliance with legal requirements, select qualified teachers, and provide a professional and supportive work environment to maximize teaching effectiveness.

For assistance in hiring foreign teachers, contact Byan Teach for consultation and top-notch services!