Job Discussion Forums

[Deicide]

In other places of Europe it has become nigh impossible to get work as an American. What is the situation like in the Czech Republic? How much can one expect to earn there? I have a BA and a CELTA and some experience but am rusty (since teaching in Korea does little to hone your teaching skills). Any information, tips, etc.? Thanks in advance to all...

[Arab Strap]

I'm a bit rusty on Czech these days but if my info is anything to go by the situation there is the same for Americans as anywhere else in Europe.

I hope the frequent visitors who to this forum, who are actually on the ground will be able to help you more.

I'd avoid Prague, expensive for Czech and expay alike, try another city eg Brno. I know quite a few from the land of the free who work there and could probably even set you up with a job. BUT you'll make enough money to live off and be out on the razz every night (still the price of beer is set to increase.............a major factor amongst my ex-pat mates I can assure you).

Sorting out the paperwork can be a nightmare, but you can always work illegally so to speak. Most schools will employ you with your quals and experience in the short term but they'll be lookibg for you to go through the proper channels in the long run should you decide to stay.

This means sorting out your insurance and visa/work permit etc. Being a citizen of the EU this hasn't presented me with any problems, however as an American this could prove to be difficult..................it can be done but if you're in CZ to save or pay off any debts then forget it.

[spiral78]

Arab Strap's right about wages and standard of living. Pay is enough...to live all right, but not to travel outside of the country, save, or pay back debts. You are eligible for work permits for the new EU member countries, and it IS a hassle.

[Pennypacker1]

Hey guys!, I know that alot has been said about not being able to travel outside the country, but does that include places east of the Czech republic as well? I mean like Hungary or the former Yugoslavia? anyone have any experience of this?

Thanks in advance

[spiral78]

Teaching in the Czech Rep, you don't make enough money to fund extensive travel/holidays anywhere much. However, the money that you do make here will definitely go farther to the East than to the West. I traveled around the Czech Rep and saved up enough for a week in Greece my first year in Prague. But I lived pretty frugally and had no debt or anything.

[Chris Westergaard]

As far as finding work as an American, you will have no problems as long as you have an international TEFL certificate (one that is at least 100 hours in length and includes Teaching Practice). I have been in Prague now for 4 and one half years and there is still plenty of work available. Most of the students who take our TEFL course are Americans and they dont have any problems finding work. The same is true for other courses in the city as well. Money is a bit tight here for new teachers but if you work a full schedule you will do fine.

[merlin]

The work visa process takes about 3-6 months or longer. You'll either have to work illegally during that time or sit and watch your savings dwindle as you fight the beaurocracy. You will also need A LOT of help from someone who speaks Czech well.