Job Discussion Forums

barca24 · Joined: 14 Mar 2006 Posts: 3

I have a TEFL certificate and have been teaching for the past year in Spain however I would like to teach in Lisbon next year. Does anyone know if it is difficult for 'visa-less' Americans to find work there? I have had no problems securing hours in Barcelona but have heard that hours are less reliable in Lisbon with lots of cancelations. Is this true? Any additional information about teaching/living in Lisbon would be greatly appreciated! Thanks! Smile

peterinlisbon · Joined: 12 Dec 2005 Posts: 4

Portuguese people are obsessed with rules. It's the opposite to Spain. So I think you wouldn't have a chance here. In any case, there is almost no market for English teaching in Portugal. It is much better in Spain. People don't even know what private classes are. There is a reason that there is no Portugal section here - this is not a worthwhile destination. I think it must be the worst place in Europe to teach English. It's a nice place to spend a weekend, though.

barca24 · Joined: 14 Mar 2006 Posts: 3

Thanks for the info!! Have you tried working and living in Lisbon or is this secondhand information? I am shocked to hear that there is no work there but I guess that makes my decision for me! Thanks again for the response!

peterinlisbon · Joined: 12 Dec 2005 Posts: 4

No, I am living in Lisbon right now, although I'm planning to leave soon. If you would like to come over for a visit we can meet and I can tell you about the situation, but I think that for an American it has to be almost impossible. The schools insist on going through all the paperwork and registering with the tax authorities. Apart from that, pay is really low and private classes are non-existant.

barca24 · Joined: 14 Mar 2006 Posts: 3

I am planning on visiting in the end of july or begining of August so if you are still around I would really appreciate all the info you have to offer. I have heard that the pay is low but also that the cost of living is also low and that they balance each other out! I read on another question that you said the people are rude? At least I think you said it! Well my question is are they any ruder than the people in Barcelona? I would be thuroughly impressed if anyone managed to beat them in general rudeness and cheapness! Thanks for your responses!
Amanda