Teaching in Poland: Everything you need to know

Learn everything you need to know about teaching in Poland, including requirements, salaries, visas, and top tips for finding jobs and settling in.

If you’re interested in living and teaching in Poland, you’ll need to know what you can expect in terms of lifestyle, what working in Poland is really like and how to secure your first teaching job in the country.

As a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) professional equipped with a TEFL qualification from a reputable organisation such as The TEFL Org, you’ll have everything you need to take advantage of the exciting opportunity to relocate to this central European nation with its vibrant cities and affordable living costs.

Teaching in Poland: Need to Know

Why Live In Poland?

Many people choose to live and work in Poland because of its affordable food, rent and transport costs. Thanks to its central location, it’s also an ideal choice of base for touring the rest of Europe and enjoying teaching in Poland. Not only that, but the locals are welcoming and friendly, the landscapes are stunning, and there are thriving modern cities to enjoy.

Living in Poland offers a wealth of benefits, ranging from a lower cost of living to the opportunity to explore its many beautiful regions like Malopolska,  with its mountainous landscape, the historic treasures of Pomerania and Mazovia, home to the capital, Warsaw. Some of the advantages of relocating to Poland include:

• Culturally diverse cities to discover.
• No less than 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites and over 20 national parks to explore.
• Its status as one of Europe’s safest countries.
• Strong prospects for employment.
• High living standards thanks to modern amenities and widespread digital infrastructure.
• Warm and welcoming locals.
• Affordable transport costs, allowing expats to travel to neighbouring countries but also save in one of the best places in Europe.

Why Teach in Poland?

Many TEFL professionals opt to work in Poland because of the strong local demand for English teachers here which translates into many excellent employment opportunities. This makes teaching in Poland a popular option for new teachers.

English language skills are highly desirable among workers in Poland across almost all industries, so it comes as no surprise that there is so much demand for English lessons. Those with The TEFL Org qualification will be perfectly positioned to secure teaching roles across a range of educational settings.

Some of the English teaching jobs you may apply for in Poland include:

• Working in state, private or international schools at either the primary or secondary level.
• Posts in language schools teaching adult learners.
• Roles with companies teaching business English to employees.
• Tutoring positions, working with small groups or on a one-to-one basis.
• Online teaching, which can be done remotely from any location in Poland, delivering classes to students from all over the world.

Is It Affordable To Live And Work In Poland?

You’ll find living and working in Poland affordable, although of course, your location and your personal choices will determine just how much you’re likely to spend each month. In general, food utility and transport costs are lower than you’re likely to be used to, with the cost of living in Poland being around a third less than that you’ll find in the UK or the USA.

English teachers working in Poland can expect to earn from a minimum of PLN 5,153 (which equates to around £1050) up to as much as PLN 14,000 (or £2850) per month, depending on the role and location. Experienced teachers with the right qualifications can command higher salaries and enjoy the best working conditions.

When it comes to how much everyday items cost, some average prices in pounds include:

• Rent – from £852 for a centrally-located apartment in the capital to around £679 for a rental outside the city.  
• Eating out – from as little as around £8.
• Utility bills – around £218 including gas, electricity, water, cooling and rubbish collection.
• Phone bills – A mobile contract with inclusive data could cost around £8 per month.
• Internet – Under £13 monthly for a stable and reliable connection.

Where Should I Live In Poland?

The five major Polish cities are often top choices among TEFL professionals relocating to Poland. These include Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw, Poznan and Gdansk, with each of these cities having something special and unique to offer.

Warsaw

Warsaw, the capital, is cosmopolitan and fast-paced, offering a modern lifestyle for English teachers who relocate here. There is an especially high demand for business English lessons, and there may be excellent opportunities for private tutoring, although the cost of living will be higher due to its major city status.

Krakow

For those looking for a more cultural experience, Krakow is a top choice. Popular amongst tourists, the city also boasts a significant student population, making tutoring a viable option here. The cost of living is also more affordable.

Wroclaw

The internationally focused city of Wroclaw may be a technology hub, but it’s also known as the Venice of Poland thanks to its pretty islands and bridges. Sustainable and safe, it’s one of the more affordable cities to live and work in.

Poznan

Known for its historic charm and ancient origins, Poznan is an academic hub offering plenty of English teaching opportunities. As one of the lesser-known Polish cities, it’s also one of the cheapest to relocate to and a great place to explore if you want to visit Europe on a budget.

Gdansk

If you’re eager to experience a coastal lifestyle, this scenic seaside city offers the perfect work/life balance as well as a thriving expat community that will welcome you as a TEFL professional.

What Do I Need To Start Teaching English In Poland?

If you’re not an EU citizen, you’ll need a temporary residence permit, work visa, police clearance, a valid passport and relevant teaching qualifications to legally teach English in Poland.

Teachers of English who are coming to Poland from a non-EU country, such as the UK or the USA, will require an offer of employment from a business or school within Poland and must complete the relevant paperwork. It’s also important to obtain sufficient insurance cover to protect you during your stay in the country.

Some schools will require you to have a degree, but not all. Nevertheless, you will need a minimum 120-hour TEFL qualification accredited by a recognised body from a trusted organisation such as The TEFL Org.

Once these items are in place, you’ll be ready to start your new life and career in Poland! 

How to Find Teaching Jobs in Poland

Finding a teaching job in Poland is relatively straightforward, especially if you are flexible and proactive in your approach. The majority of English teaching roles are in private language schools, which hire year-round but tend to peak in late summer (August–September) and January. Applying ahead of these hiring seasons can give you a strong advantage.

There are several ways to secure a teaching position. Online job boards are one of the most common routes, with many schools advertising vacancies directly. Recruitment agencies can also be helpful, particularly for first-time teachers, as they often assist with job placement and sometimes provide support with visas and accommodation. If you already have a TEFL certification, many course providers offer job placement assistance or exclusive job listings.

Another popular option is to apply in person once you arrive in Poland. This approach can be particularly effective in larger cities, where schools may prefer face-to-face interviews and demo lessons. Bringing printed copies of your CV and being prepared to visit multiple schools can increase your chances of finding work quickly.

Networking is also valuable—joining expat groups, teaching forums, and social media communities can help you discover job opportunities and gain insights from other teachers. Being open to different types of roles, such as private tutoring or online teaching, can further boost your income and provide additional flexibility while living in Poland.

Things to Know Before you go to Poland

Teaching in Poland FAQ