The short answer
| Country | Without a degree? |
|---|---|
| Thailand | No — a degree is needed for the work permit and permission to teach. |
| Vietnam | No — a degree is needed for the work permit. |
| Cambodia | Yes — a degree isn't legally required, though better schools ask for one. |
How to start in Cambodia without a degree
- Get a 120-hour TEFL — reputable schools expect one, and it makes up for the missing degree.
- Arrive on an E-class (ordinary) visa, not a tourist visa.
- Job-hunt in person: walk-ins and Facebook groups work well in Phnom Penh.
- Extend your visa for 6 or 12 months and get a work permit through the online system with your employer's help.
Language centre pay is typically US$800–1,200 a month. After a year of experience, many teachers move to better-paying schools.
Offers to avoid
Be wary of anyone offering a job in Thailand or Vietnam with "no degree, no TEFL, no visa needed", and of anyone selling degrees or backdated certificates. Fake documents can mean deportation and a ban, and immigration checks are getting stricter every year.
Frequently asked questions
Can I teach English in Thailand without a degree?
Not legally at a school. Thailand requires a bachelor's degree for the work permit and permission to teach.
Can I teach English in Vietnam without a degree?
No. A degree is needed for the Vietnamese work permit.
Where can I teach English in Asia without a degree?
Of the countries covered here, Cambodia is the realistic legal option. A degree isn't legally required, though a 120-hour TEFL is expected by reputable schools.
Updated October 2026 by Teacher Francois. Salaries and visa rules are typical ranges reported for 2025–2026 and can change — always confirm with your employer and the official embassy or immigration website before you pay for anything.