Job Discussion Forums

[mykrobb]

Hello everyone,
Ok, I have done some research on this site and I get the impression that in order to find a job in CR one should get certified. So, I am planning on taking TEFL international's course this November, but before I send in the initial payment I need to find out some more information. First, how does one get a travel visa for CR and how long does this last, please be specific? Second, I understand that its not very probable to get an actual work visa in CR and that people renew their travel visas by border running, but could anyone go into specifics of how that actually works? Third, how good is the job market there; would it be decent enough for a person like me with a new TEFL certificate and no experience support myself? Thats all I have for now. Thanks.

~Mike Robb

[C]

It depends on what country you are from and your personal situation if you need to get a travel visa. I would guess that you would get it at the Costa Rican embassy of your country. Usually though, just a valid passport is needed and is good for about 3 months.

The border-runners go to Nicaragua or Panama for a couple days when the valid time they can stay with their passport is about to expire. This gives them another few months they can stay in the country before they have to do it again. Those trips can be costly but you have to do what you need to do.

I know people who have gotten jobs without experience or certification but you could probably find a better paying job right away with the TESL. There are more job openings in the beginning of the year and around July-August. You should be able to support yourself fine but it would be a good idea to bring some money to buy major appliances and furnature for your apartment/house because they are not included here.

Good luck!