Job Discussion Forums

[Louise10]

This is my first post and I must admit to being a little nervous. I have been prowling these corridors for some time but my needs now outweigh my trepidation to post so here goes... I have been teaching in China since the beginning of this year and have another 6 months until my contract expires in January. I have until October to make a decision to renew or not. I'm reasonably happy with my current employer but I would like a change. I have spent about 7 months in Thailand over the years and I'd be happy to live and work there. I have a non-education masters, an ESL cert, some experience teaching esl to adults in China (oral English and writing - I have academic publications for what that's worth) and many years experience teaching professionals at home. I have considered Thailand for some time but I've been discouraged by several factors that I've discovered during my web research such as the need to be in the country to find work; the need to find my own accommodation; and the difficulty obtaining a work permit. These things were taken care of for me in China so if anyone could give me some advice about these specific issues I would be very grateful.

Thanks. Louise.

[isanity]

The first two are absolutely nothing to worry about. They're both easy to do, and there are obvious advantages to meeting your employer and seeing your school or apartment before you make decisions on these things.

Work permits... are irritating, yes, but not a substantial problem. I'd strongly advise getting a job which will allow you to get a work permit. Not all do, but there are plenty which do to choose from. Then it's just a matter of waiting for the school to do the paperwork (it's all in Thai, so I don't think anyone will expect you to do it). The cost of visas, work permits and extensions to visas is substantial, so if the school will pay for all these that's a big bonus. Working without a permit and doing visa runs is a pitiful existence, which I wouldn't recommend.

All round though, I've worked in both countries and I'd choose Thailand over China any time.

[laben18]

Both times I came here to live and teach, (2002, last year), I found an apartment and an employer who provided a work permit in less than a month.

If you're presentable and qualified and have the $$$ for the deposit and first month's rent, this place is cake.

[Louise10]

Thanks a lot for your replies. I'm relieved to hear it's not as difficult as I first thought. You've given me more confidence to pursue a possible move next year.