Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Decide where you want to move. The location will determine what kind of visa you need to enter and teach in the country. Brazil, for example, requires a visa for visitors as well as those who want to stay for an extended period of time. Other countries require a work visa for anyone planning to be employed during their visit. Call the destination's consulate in your country to understand what you need to travel there.
Determine what credentials you need to teach English in that country. According to Transitions Abroad's website, some countries and schools require no more credentials than your being a native English speaker (See Reference 1). Other countries require formal English as a Second Language training. If the country of your choice requires that you have this formal training, get certified through an ESL school such as the American TESOL Institute. Certification takes time though. It may be faster to find a foreign country and school that either does not require ESL certification or will train you once you arrive.
Assemble the necessary documents. If you need a visa, apply for one through the country's consulate. Also, make sure your passport is current. If you are short on time, you can often request expedited service for these documents -- at extra cost.
Reserve a plane ticket or otherwise plan your travel to the country abroad.
Make housing arrangements. Some programs and schools will provide you with housing while others will not. You can find independent housing through websites like Craigslist.com, which has classified ads for many cities outside of the United States. Listings on this site do not have any official backing and could be fraudulent, so use at your own risk. You may also find housing when you arrive. Book a hostel or hotel ahead of time where you can stay while searching for long-term arrangements. Hosteling International's website is one resource to connect you with accommodations around the world (See Resource 2).
Consider what to bring, depending on the length of your stay abroad. A sojourn of between a few months and a year requires fewer items than a permanent move does. Also, research the seasons in your host country and think about the kind of clothing and supplies you will need during your visit.
Pack the essentials. Items like toiletries can be purchased in almost every country. Medications, on the other hand, may not be readily available, so stock up at home before leaving. If you plan on moving all your belongings, you will have to hire an international mover. This process often needs to be set up months in advance. An alternative to such a time-consuming and costly process is to sell your things, give them to charity and friends, or rent a storage unit to house them until you return.