As an expat teacher in Hanoi for four years, I can honestly say this city has a pulse unlike any other. From the bustling streets filled with the scent of street food to the vibrant markets teeming with life, Hanoi is a place that inspires. I came here as an IELTS and Global Perspectives teacher, seeking an adventure, and what I found was a unique blend of culture, camaraderie, and professional growth. Hanoi is rapidly becoming a hub for qualified teachers from around the globe, and for good reason. With a growing demand for quality international education and a relatively low cost of living, it’s an ideal base for educators looking to make a difference and make good money. In this guide, I listed down the best international schools in Hanoi alongside some vital informations for my fellow qualified teachers, especially, of color.

Work Requirements for Foreign Teachers

Before you pack your bags and book your flight, it’s important to understand the work requirements for foreign teachers in Vietnam. Here’s a quick rundown of what you need:

1. Work Permit: A valid work permit is a must for any foreign teacher. Your prospective school will usually assist you with this process. It involves submitting necessary documents, such as your teaching qualifications, a criminal background check, and a medical certificate.
2. Teaching Qualifications: Most international schools require a bachelor’s degree and a teaching certificate (such as a TEFL, TESOL, or a teaching license from your home country). You will have an edge if your degree deliberately has “education” in it, for example, Bachelors of Elementary Education. Experience is often preferred, especially for competitive positions. Thankfully, you can now enroll in recognized  TEFL courses online.
3. Visa: You’ll need to obtain a visa to work legally in Vietnam. The work visa is often tied to your employment, so it’s essential to have your school’s support in this process.
4. Health Insurance: While not strictly a legal requirement, it’s highly recommended to have health insurance that covers you while living and working abroad. Well-reputed schools often provide full insurance to their teachers, or sometimes they provide financial assistance so teachers can choose whatever health insurance they prefer.
5. Background Checks: Many schools conduct background checks, so ensure your documents are in order before you apply.

What If I Don’t Have an Employer Yet?

For qualified teachers planning to move to Vietnam before securing an employer, there are several visa and work permit options to consider:

1. Tourist Visa (DL Visa)

• Duration: Typically 1 to 3 months, single or multiple entry.
• Purpose: Primarily for tourism but can be used initially while job hunting.
• Note: You cannot work legally on a tourist visa. However, it provides you time to search for a job and transition to a more appropriate visa later.

2. E-Visa

• Duration: up to 90 days, single entry or multiple entry (Personal note: 3 months, multiply entry was my first visa in Vietnam when I decided to move there). You can process it yourself in the official website.
• Purpose: Short-term stays for tourism or exploration.
• Note: Similar to the tourist visa, it allows you to be in the country while looking for a job.

3. Business Visa (DN Visa)

• Duration: Up to 12 months, multiple entry options available.
• Purpose: For those engaging in business activities such as meetings or market research.
• Note: While not intended for employment, it can provide a legal way to stay in the country while you secure a teaching job.

Practical Steps for Teachers

1. Initial Entry:
   • Arrive on a tourist visa or e-visa to start with. This gives you the flexibility to explore job opportunities.
2. Job Search:
   • Network with international schools, language centers, and universities.
   • Utilize online job portals specific to teaching jobs in Vietnam.
   • Attend local job fairs and join expat teacher groups on social media.
3. Securing Employment:
   • Once a job offer is received, work with your employer to obtain a work permit.
   • Employers typically assist with the required documentation and application process for the work permit and TRC.
4. Legal Requirements:
   • Ensure all your documents (degrees, teaching certificates, etc.) are authenticated and notarized. Do this before you move to Vietnam.
   • Get a health check at an authorized medical center in Vietnam.
   • Submit a police clearance certificate from your home country and any other country you’ve lived in for more than 6 months. You will also get a police certificate in Vietnam. To ease the struggle, many foreigners like me went through an agency to process this for us.
5. Transition to Work Permit:
   • Apply for a work permit with the help of your employer.
   • Once granted, apply for the Temporary Residence Card.

By following these steps and choosing the right visa option, qualified teachers can smoothly transition to working legally in Vietnam.

The Best Areas to Live as a Foreign Teacher

Hanoi is divided into various districts, each with its own charm and character. For expat teachers, certain areas stand out:

1. Tay Ho (West Lake): This area is a favorite among expats for its beautiful lakeside views, lively atmosphere, and abundance of restaurants and cafes. It’s a vibrant community with a strong foreign presence, making it easy to meet fellow teachers.
2. Hoan Kiem: The heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm. Living here puts you close to shops, restaurants, and cultural sites, but it can be busy and a bit touristy.
3. Ba Dinh: This is the political center of Vietnam, home to many embassies and international schools. It’s quieter than Hoan Kiem but still offers plenty of conveniences.
4. Lac Long Quan: Pretty close to Tay Ho, but it provides a bit of distance from the expat bubble. I lived in the area for two years before I transferred to Tran Dang Ninh area in Cau Giay.
5. Dong Da: A bit further from the tourist hotspots, Dong Da offers a more local vibe while still being accessible to schools and amenities. It’s a great option for those looking to immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture.
6. Cau Giay: This up-and-coming area is popular with younger expats. It’s a bit more affordable than Tay Ho and offers plenty of restaurants and parks, making it a comfortable place to live.
7. Yen Phu: Yen Phu, a small peninsula on West Lake, offers a tranquil environment with a mix of traditional and contemporary housing. It’s a quieter alternative to Tay Ho, with stunning lake views and a friendly expat community.
8. Long Bien: Long Bien is across the Red River, known for its green spaces and quieter lifestyle. It’s great for families and those seeking larger homes and villas. Though further from the city center, it provides a suburban feel with modern conveniences.

Racism in the Education Space in Hanoi: A Personal Perspective

When I first moved to Hanoi four years ago, I was filled with excitement and optimism about teaching in a new country. With nine years of teaching experience under my belt, I was confident in my abilities and eager to make a positive impact. However, as a brown-skinned teacher from the Philippines, I quickly realized that my journey would be far more challenging than I had anticipated.

Despite my extensive qualifications and experience, finding a legitimate teaching job that paid well was a struggle. The harsh reality is that in many parts of Asia, including Hanoi, there is a pervasive bias towards hiring white teachers. This preference often overlooks the actual qualifications and experience of the candidates in favor of their appearance.

One of the most frustrating experiences I encountered was the apparent ease with which some white backpackers, who had little to no teaching experience, secured jobs in after-school English language centers. These individuals, often passing through Vietnam on their travels, were given opportunities simply because they fit the stereotype of what an English teacher should look like. This bias undermines the efforts of qualified and dedicated teachers who have invested years in honing their craft.

In my early days, I applied to numerous schools and language centers, often receiving polite rejections or no response at all. On several occasions, I was told outright that the position had been filled by a “native speaker,” a term that has unfortunately become synonymous with “white” in many educational institutions here. It was disheartening to see my qualifications dismissed solely based on my ethnicity.

One particular incident stands out in my memory. I had an interview scheduled with a reputable language center in Hanoi. The interview seemed to go well; the director was impressed with my resume and my creative writing and literature background. However, when it came to a face-to-face meeting, I could sense a shift in the atmosphere as soon as I walked in. The director’s enthusiasm waned visibly, and I was given vague promises about getting back to me. That call never came.

It’s not just about job opportunities, though. Even after securing a position, the challenges persisted. I often found myself having to prove my worth repeatedly, not just to employers but sometimes even to students and parents who held preconceived notions about what an English teacher should look like. There were instances where I was asked by parents why I was teaching English when I wasn’t “white.” These moments were disheartening, but they also fueled my determination to challenge these biases and excel in my role.

Despite these challenges, I persevered and eventually found a school that valued my experience and skills over my appearance. It took time, persistence, and a thick skin to navigate the biases entrenched in the educational landscape here. I also found a supportive community of fellow teachers, both local and expat, who shared similar experiences and offered solidarity and advice.

My journey in Hanoi has been a testament to resilience in the face of discrimination. It has highlighted the importance of challenging stereotypes and advocating for equal opportunities based on merit rather than appearance. For fellow expat teachers of color considering a move to Hanoi, my advice is to be prepared for these challenges but also to remain steadfast in your pursuit. Your skills and dedication are your strongest assets, and with persistence, you can find a place where they are truly appreciated.

Tips and Hacks for People of Color Teachers to Secure a Good Teaching Job in Hanoi

Navigating the teaching job market in Hanoi as a person of color can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can find a rewarding position that values your experience and skills. Here are some tips and hacks to help you along the way

Highlight Your Qualifications and Experience

Emphasize your teaching credentials, certifications, and years of experience in your resume and cover letter. Make it clear that you bring substantial expertise to the table. I highly recommend using a two-page resume template on Canva.

Network Actively

Join expat teacher groups on social media platforms like Facebook. These communities often share job openings and can provide insights into reputable schools and language centers.

Here are some of the go-to Facebook groups for finding apartments, teaching jobs, or socializing with fellow expats and locals alike.

Hanoi Expats
Hanoi Massive Community
Hanoi Beautiful
Hanoi Teaching Jobs
Hanoi Cover Teachers/Classes Offline & Online

Tailor Your Applications

Customize your resume and cover letter for each application. Address the specific needs of the school and demonstrate how your skills align with their requirements.

Seek Out Reputable Schools

Focus on established international schools and reputable language centers known for their diversity and inclusivity. Institutions like the British International School and United Nations International School often have more inclusive hiring practices.

Leverage Professional Development:

Engage in continuous professional development to enhance your skills and stay updated with the latest teaching methodologies. This can make you more competitive in the job market.

Prepare for Interviews

Be ready to discuss your teaching philosophy and how your diverse background can bring a unique perspective to the classroom. Practice answering common interview questions confidently.

Be Persistent

Rejections can be disheartening, but persistence is key. Keep applying, and don’t let initial setbacks deter you.

Showcase Positive Student Outcomes

Highlight any measurable success you’ve had with students, such as improved test scores or successful projects. This can help demonstrate your effectiveness as an educator. Doing this on a video format was a game changer for me. What I did was I filmed some student activities and sent them along with my CV and application letter.

Hacks for Dealing with Racist Recruiters

Unfortunately, you may encounter biased recruiters during your job search. Here are some strategies to handle such situations professionally:

Stay Professional: Respond professionally, even if you sense bias. Maintaining your composure reflects well on your character.

Redirect the Focus to Qualifications: If you sense a recruiter is biased, steer the conversation back to your qualifications and experience. Emphasize how your skills can benefit their institution.

Ask Direct Questions: Politely ask about the school’s diversity policies and commitment to inclusivity. This can help gauge their openness and potentially challenge any biases.

Document Interactions: Keep records of your interactions with recruiters. If you encounter blatant racism, you may need to report it to higher authorities or seek legal advice. You can also share this experience on Hanoi English teachers’ bad experiences exchange to warn other teachers. Or if you’re new in the city and don’t know if the place you got a job offer is any good, you can also check past posts on this group.

Response Template for Racist Recruiters

Here’s a professional response template you can use if you encounter a recruiter making biased comments or exhibiting discriminatory behavior:

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Subject: Follow-Up on Interview for [Position] at [School Name]

Dear [Recruiter’s Name],

Thank you for considering my application for the [Position] at [School Name]. I appreciated the opportunity to discuss how my [specific qualifications, experience, etc.] can contribute to your school’s success.

During our conversation, I sensed some concerns regarding [specific bias incident, if applicable]. I want to assure you that my diverse background and extensive experience in teaching, particularly in [specific subjects or areas], have equipped me with unique skills that can greatly benefit your students. Diversity in teaching staff can enrich the learning environment, providing students with broader perspectives and more inclusive education.

I am genuinely excited about the possibility of contributing to [School Name]’s esteemed reputation and helping students achieve their academic goals. If there are any specific concerns you have about my candidacy, I would be more than happy to address them.

Thank you again for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of working with your team and contributing to the vibrant learning community at [School Name].

Best regards,

[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[LinkedIn Profile (if applicable)]

The Best 16 International Schools in Hanoi

As an experienced expat teacher who has spent four years in Hanoi, I’ve had the chance to explore and understand the international school landscape here. If you’re considering moving to Hanoi to teach, here are the top 15 international schools based on the list from the International Schools Database, known for their strong academic programs, diverse communities, and supportive environments for teachers. I also advise you to network with the people working on these schools. You can easily find them on LinkedIn. Or who knows you will meet them while socializing around Tay Ho area.

1. United Nations International School of Hanoi (UNIS Hanoi)

UNIS Hanoi offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and is known for its commitment to holistic education and global citizenship. The school provides a supportive environment for both students and teachers, with excellent facilities and professional development opportunities.

2. British International School Hanoi (BIS Hanoi)

BIS Hanoi follows the British curriculum and offers the IB diploma program. It is renowned for its academic excellence, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities. The school supports its teachers with robust professional growth programs.

3. Hanoi International School (HIS)

HIS offers a comprehensive IB curriculum and fosters a multicultural environment. The school is known for its close-knit community and a strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning, making it a great place for teachers who value collaboration and innovation in education.

4. Singapore International School @ Ciputra (SIS Ciputra)

SIS Ciputra provides a bilingual education with a combination of the Singaporean and International curricula. The school is well-regarded for its rigorous academic standards and a strong focus on STEM education. It offers a collaborative work environment for teachers.

5. St. Paul American School Hanoi (SPASH)

SPASH offers an American curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The school prides itself on its strong academic programs, diverse student body, and supportive teaching community. It is a great place for teachers looking to engage in a dynamic and inclusive educational setting.

6. The International School @ ParkCity Hanoi (ISPH)

ISPH provides a British-based education with an emphasis on holistic development and pastoral care. The school offers a vibrant work environment with excellent facilities and a supportive community for teachers and students alike.

7. Wellspring International Bilingual School

Wellspring offers a blend of Vietnamese and international curricula, aiming to create well-rounded global citizens. The school is known for its innovative teaching methods and supportive work environment, making it an attractive option for expat teachers.

8. Concordia International School Hanoi

Concordia offers an American-based curriculum with a focus on personalized learning and student well-being. The school is well-regarded for its strong community spirit and supportive teaching environment, providing ample opportunities for professional development.

9. Canadian International School (CIS)

CIS follows the Ontario curriculum and is known for its academic rigor and inclusive community. The school supports its teachers with continuous professional development and a collaborative work environment.

10. Vietnam Australia School Hanoi (VAS Hanoi)

VAS Hanoi offers a bilingual education model, combining the Vietnamese and Australian curricula. The school is expanding rapidly and provides excellent opportunities for teachers to grow professionally in a dynamic setting.

11. Montessori International School of Vietnam (MIS)

MIS offers an authentic Montessori education for early childhood and primary levels. The school emphasizes individualized learning and holistic development, providing a nurturing environment for both students and teachers.

12. Vinh School

Vinh School is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum that combines local and international standards. The school focuses on fostering critical thinking and creativity among students. Teachers at Vinh School benefit from a supportive community and ample professional development opportunities.

13. TH School

TH School offers a bilingual education with a strong emphasis on Vietnamese culture and international best practices. The school provides a holistic education approach, aiming to develop well-rounded individuals. TH School supports its teachers with a collaborative work environment and professional growth programs.

14. Nguyen Sieu School

Nguyen Sieu School combines the Vietnamese curriculum with international programs, offering a balanced education to its students. The school is known for its commitment to academic excellence and character development. Teachers at Nguyen Sieu School enjoy a supportive and dynamic teaching environment.

15. International Montessori Kindergarten of Hanoi

This school provides a Montessori education for young children, emphasizing independence and individualized learning. The school is known for its supportive community and commitment to high-quality early childhood education.

16. Olympia Schools

Olympia Schools offer a bilingual curriculum with a strong emphasis on character education and holistic development. The school supports its teachers with professional development and a collaborative work environment.

Choosing the right school to teach at in Hanoi can make a significant difference in your professional and personal experience. Each of these schools offers unique opportunities and environments that cater to diverse educational philosophies and teaching styles. With persistence and the right approach, you can find a rewarding position that appreciates and values your skills and experience as an educator. Welcome to Hanoi – your adventure in teaching awaits!