How to Teach English Online In Argentina [2025]
Tips for Argentinians to Get Hired as Online English Teachers
Teaching English online from Argentina isn't just a job — it's your ticket to global impact and financial freedom. With time zones bridging Asian and European markets, Argentinian teachers can easily access prime teaching hours that others can't reach.
While many think you must be a native speaker to succeed, Argentinian teachers prove them wrong daily, building thriving careers from their homes. Your bilingual background isn't a limitation, it's your superpower in connecting with students worldwide.
In this guide, learn how Argentinians get hired to teach English online. From finding the best opportunities to nailing your interviews, we'll walk you through the steps to turn your English fluency into a fulfilling teaching career.
Why Teach English Online from Argentina?
Teaching English online in Argentina offers flexibility, financial benefits, and global connections.
01
Perfect Time Zone
Argentina's time zone (GMT-3) perfectly positions you for global students. You can work with Asian students in the morning and Europeans in the afternoon, letting you create a regular schedule without late-night hours. The time overlaps with key markets, giving you flexibility to choose when you teach.
Argentina Time Zones (UTC-3)
China (CST, UTC+8)
Local Peak Hours | Argentina Time | |
---|---|---|
Weekdays | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM |
Weekends | 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | 9:00 PM – 9:00 AM |
Western Europe (CET, UTC+1)
Day Type | Local Peak Hours | Argentina Time |
---|---|---|
Weekdays | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
Weekends | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | 5:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
Eastern Europe (EET, UTC+2)
Day Type | Local Peak Hours | Argentina Time |
---|---|---|
Weekdays | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
Weekends | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | 4:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
02
Earn in USD
Getting paid in US dollars helps insulate yourself from peso fluctuations. With Argentina's economic uncertainty, earning in USD provides absolute financial stability and better buying power.
03
Work from Home (WFH)
Teaching online means no more battling downtown rush hour traffic. You can create your ideal work-life balance while saving on transport costs and time.
04
Focus on Teaching
Online teaching lets you concentrate on what matters - the actual teaching. When class ends, you're done for the day. No late-night grading or after-hours parent meetings to worry about.
05
Leverage Your Language Skills
Being bilingual in Spanish gives you a real advantage. You can better support Spanish-speaking beginner students since you understand their challenges firsthand. Many students prefer teachers who've been through the same language learning process.
06
Control Your Schedule
Balance teaching with your other passions. Whether you're studying, pursuing photography, or dedicated to volunteer work, online teaching fits around your life—not the other way around.
07
Build Multiple Income Streams
Work with several companies or platforms simultaneously. Diversifying your student base creates a more stable income while gaining experience with different types of learners.
08
Build an International Career
Develop global business skills while teaching. Your experience working with international students and managing cross-cultural communication can open doors to roles in education management, curriculum development, or corporate training. Your teaching experience becomes a steppingstone to broader career paths.
Why Is It Hard for Argentinians to Teach English Online?
While the opportunities are exciting, Argentinian teachers face several unique challenges. Here's what you need to know:
01
Non-Native Speaker Barriers
Many schools prioritize native speakers, and your nationality may work against you—even if your English is flawless.
02
Non-American Accent
Do you speak with an accent? Asian markets strongly prefer North American accents. Aim for that neutral accent with clear pronunciation.
03
Certification Requirements
A degree from an Argentinian university isn't enough. Most schools demand a 120-hour TEFL certificate or similar, even if you have teaching experience.
04
Working on Argentine Holidays
Online teaching follows international schedules, not local ones. While Argentina has 17 national holidays (*feriados*), you'll likely need to teach on these days since your students abroad are not on vacation. This means a steady income, but you must plan your time off around your teaching commitments instead of local holidays.
05
Payment Headaches
Receiving earnings in Argentina is complicated. PayPal has restrictions, local ATMs charge high withdrawal fees, and low daily limits (typically AR$1,000) mean you may need multiple transactions. Most teachers open a *cuenta en dólares* (US dollar bank account) to handle foreign currencies as there aren't any withdrawal limits and the bank's exchange rate is much lower than the market value.
06
Currency Regulations
Argentina's strict currency controls make converting foreign earnings into pesos tricky. Managing the official and blue dollar rates requires careful attention to avoid losing money.
07
Time Management Pressure
Teaching across multiple time zones while supporting a healthy work-life balance can be demanding. You must carefully manage your schedule to avoid burnout, especially when teaching early morning Asian hours.
How Do I Become An Online English Teacher In Argentina?
01
120-hour TEFL certification
99% of ESL jobs demand this qualification. Here's why it's essential:
- Non-negotiable: Schools and platforms expect professionally trained teachers. Whether it's TEFL, TESOL, TEYL (Teaching English to Young Learners), or CELTA, these certifications show you meet global teaching standards.
- Global standard: In many countries (e.g., China), these certifications are often mandatory for teaching online.
- Practical Skills: You'll learn proven teaching methods, effective lesson planning, and classroom management—critical tools for standing out as a teacher.
Want to fast-track your career? Complete our TEFL Certification with us.
02
Higher Education
(3-year diploma or bachelor's degree)
Most online ESL jobs require a tertiary qualification. Here's what that means in Argentina:
- University Degree: A Licenciatura in Languages, Translation, or Education is ideal (4-6 years).
- Teaching Qualification: Título de Profesor de Inglés is not mandatory, but a useful qualification.
- Short Programs: Técnico Universitario or Analista Universitario degrees (2-3 years) may be accepted.
- Current Students: Some employers will consider your application if you're currently studying in higher education.
- Any Field: Your degree discipline doesn't matter—any field is acceptable.
03
Native-Level English Proficiency
To teach online, you'll need high-level English fluency. Most schools use the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference) to measure language skills from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery).
1) Required Language Levels:
B2 Level (Upper-Intermediate)
- Minimum level accepted by most schools.
- Understand complex texts and abstract discussions.
- Express yourself fluently in conversations.
- Confidently handle most professional situations in English.
- Ideal for teaching beginners and intermediate students.
- Write detailed and organized content.
C1 Level (Advanced)
- Recommended level to teach online.
- Use English flexibly for all purposes.
- Understand demanding, longer texts.
- Express ideas fluently and spontaneously.
- Produce clear, well-structured, detailed writing.
- Perfect for teaching all levels, including business English.
2) Key Pronunciation Skills
Master these sounds that challenge Argentine Spanish speakers:
- TH sounds: Both voiced (this, that) and unvoiced (think, bath).
- R sound: English 'r' differs from Spanish 'r' (red, right).
- Vowel distinctions: Short vs. long vowels (ship/sheep, live/leave).
- Word stress: Understanding stress patterns (PREsent vs preSENT).
- Consonant clusters: Practice combinations like str-, spr-, and thr-.
- Proficiency Tests: IELTS (aim for 7.0+) or TOEFL (100+) scores.
- Strong Intro Video: Record a 60-second video highlighting your English fluency and teaching personality. Keep it slow (120-150 words per minute) and engaging.
3) Proving Your English
Certifcations can help:
- Proficiency Tests: IELTS (aim for 7.0+) or TOEFL (100+) scores.
- Strong Intro Video: Record a 60-second video highlighting your English fluency and teaching personality. Keep it slow (120-150 words per minute) and engaging.
04
Clean Criminal Record
Most teaching platforms require a criminal record certificate (Certificado de Antecedentes Penales). Here's how to get it:
1) Apply Online:
Use your Mi Argentina account via the Registro Nacional de Reincidencia.
2) Delivery Options:
- 1 hour (Express): $8,500 ARS (business days, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
- 6 hours: $4,800 ARS (business days, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
- 24 hours: $2,400 ARS (business days, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.)
- 5 days: $1,000 ARS (business days, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.)
3) Receive Your Certificate:
After payment is processed, you'll receive an email with a link to download it. In most countries, your certification is valid for 90 days.
05
Teaching Experience
Experience can be an advantage, but it's rarely a dealbreaker. Many companies hire beginners and offer support to help you succeed:
- Training Provided: Platforms often include onboarding and training to prepare you for your first class.
- Pre-Made Materials: Lesson plans and activities are typically provided, saving you time and effort.
- Ongoing Support: Support teams are available to aid with any issues you face.
- Learn and Grow: Every class builds your confidence and helps you become a better teacher.
Starting without experience might feel intimidating, but with the proper support, you'll quickly find your rhythm and grow into the role.
Finding the Right ESL Teaching Platform
Your success as an Argentinian online English teacher starts with choosing the right platform. While many platforms favor native speakers and North American accents, don't let that discourage you. Here are four main paths to consider:
Each choice has its own pros and cons—let's break them down so you can find the best fit for you.
1) Online ESL Companies
These education companies focus on remote ESL lessons with a structured curriculum. You sign up directly with an online school and teach according to their established program. While many require native English speakers, some allow qualified Argentinian teachers.
What to Expect
- Independent Contractor Status: Work as a freelance teacher with flexible hours but no employee benefits.
- Structured Environment: The company handles curriculum, scheduling, and student recruitment.
- Fixed Payment System: Regular USD payments through international transfer services.
- Asian Focus: Most companies target Asian students, meaning morning hours (6 a.m.-11 a.m. ART).
Getting Hired
- Basic Requirements: TEFL certification and degree required.
- Interview Process: Initial online application, intro video, and teaching demo lesson.
ESL Pros
- Zero Marketing: You won't need to recruit or retain students.
- Structured Support: Clear teaching guidelines and administrative help.
- Ready Materials: Pre-made lesson plans reduce preparation time.
- Quick Start: Begin teaching within days of acceptance.
ESL Cons
- Nationality preference: Many companies prioritize North American teachers, limiting opportunities for Argentinians.
- Lower rates: Pay is often capped, with limited room for negotiation.
- Set hours: You may have little control over your schedule.
- Strict Requirements: Many won't consider non-native speakers regardless of qualifications
- Exclusive Contract: May require you to work only for them, restricting other opportunities.
ESL companies offer steady work and structure, but there's a catch—you can only earn so much, and they are strict about whom they hire. Be sure to check the terms before signing.
2) Online Teaching Marketplaces
These platforms, like Preply, Cambly, or iTalki, connect teachers with students worldwide, allowing you to set your rates and schedule. However, like Uber drivers, you're only paid for teaching hours, and your downtime isn't covered. Standing out as an Argentinian can be tricky since many students prefer native North American speakers, but a strong profile can help.
What to Expect
- Profile-Based Teaching: Create a profile and wait for students to book lessons.
- Self-Marketing: You must constantly promote your profile to attract students.
- Commission Structure: Platforms take up to 33% of your earnings.
- Variable Schedule: Work when you want, but student demand varies often.
Getting Hired
- Profile Creation: Add a professional photo, an engaging bio, and a video introduction to recruit learners.
- Offer Trial Lessons: Start with discounted or free trial classes to build your base.
- Pricing Strategy: Begin with lower prices to gain reviews and gradually increase them as you gain experience.
Pros
- Flexible Schedule: Plan your teaching around your life, choosing the best hours for you.
- Income Control: Decide your hourly rates and adjust them as you build experience.
- Teaching Style: More freedom in lesson planning and delivery.
- No Exclusivity: Can teach on multiple platforms.
Cons
- Tough Competition: Many students prefer native speakers, so securing regular classes may be difficult.
- Unstable Income: No guaranteed hours or consistent earnings. Waiting online for bookings without pay.
- High Commission fees: Education platforms take up to 33% of your income.
- Trial Lessons: When students buy a trial lesson, Preply's commission is 100% of its value, which means you're working for free.
- Unpaid Time: No compensation for lesson preparation or cancellations.
Online markets provide flexibility, but competition and fees can make it challenging to secure a steady income.
3) Freelance Online English Teaching
Running your own teaching business offers complete freedom but requires significant effort. Like owning any business, you'll need to handle everything from finding students to managing your teaching schedule. It's not for novices.
What to Expect
- Full Responsibility: You manage everything from finding students to creating materials.
- Direct Marketing: Build your brand through social media and word-of-mouth.
- Payment Processing: Handle your own payment collection and currency conversion.
- Complete Freedom: Design your own curriculum and teaching methods. However, a niche such as business English usually works best.
Getting Started
- Business Setup: Create a website and social media profile to prove yourself professionally.
- Marketing Plan: Develop a strategy for finding and keeping students.
- Material Creation: Build your lesson plans and resources.
- Student Outreach: Join teaching forums and social media groups.
Freelancing Pros
- Maximum Earnings: Keep 100% of what you charge ($20-50 USD/hour).
- Complete Control: Set your own policies and teaching approach.
- Direct Relationships: Build long-term connections with students.
- Teaching Freedom: Focus on subjects and levels you prefer.
Freelancing Cons
- No Guaranteed Income: Building a stable student base may take months.
- Heavy Workload: Marketing, admin, and lesson planning are all on you.
- Currency Challenges: Managing payments with Argentine restrictions.
- High Competition: Must stand out in a crowded global market.
Teaching independently means running your own business—rewarding but requires dedication.
4) The Really Great Teacher Company: The Smart Choice
The Really Great Teacher Company offers the ideal solution for Argentinian teachers. It combines the best aspects of other platforms while eliminating their drawbacks. It's one of the few ESL companies that actively welcomes non-native speakers.
What to Expect
- Quick Start: Begin teaching within 72 hours of approval.
- Regular Hours: Consistent teaching blocks from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. ART.
- Monthly Earnings: Earn $240 and $715 USD, depending on your schedule.
- Global Company: Access to a worldwide student base across time zones.
- Professional Growth: Ongoing training and development opportunities.
Getting Started
- Simple Process: Quick application and interview process.
- Fast Approval: No lengthy waiting periods or complex requirements.
- Comprehensive Training: Step-by-step guidance to become an effective teacher.
- TEFL Certification: Access our globally recognized 120-hour TEFL course.
- Full Support: Complete teacher training and resources provided.
Pros
- Stable USD Income: Regular blocks of hours for teaching that ensure consistent monthly pay.
- Work-Life Balance: No commuting, flexible scheduling, and structured support.
- 24/7 Admin Support: Our team handles all scheduling, payments, and technical support.
- Skill Development: Access training through the Inspiration Academy and opportunities for career growth.
- Non-exclusive contract: Freedom to teach on other platforms to maximize earnings.
Cons
- Fixed Pay Rates: While predictable, the income is fixed and doesn't allow negotiation.
- Teaching Guidelines: Must follow curriculum.
- Peak Hours: Available during Asian-friendly morning hours (7 a.m. to 11 a.m. ART).
The Really Great Teacher Company stands out by solving the major challenges faced by other platforms:
- No unpaid waiting time like in marketplace platforms.
- No need to handle marketing like independent teaching.
- There is no discrimination against non-native speakers, like in traditional ESL companies.
Which Online Teaching Path is Right for Me?
Your lifestyle, goals, and preferences matter. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:
ESL Companies | Online Marketplaces | Freelancer | The Really Great Teacher | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Monthly Income | $400-800 USD | Variable ($200-1000 USD) | $500-2000 USD | $240-715 USD |
Schedule Control | Fixed slots | Complete flexibility | Complete flexibility | Flexible within peak hours |
Income Stability | High | Low | Variable | High |
Getting Started | 1-2 weeks | 1-3 days | 2-4 weeks | 72 hours |
Support Level | Moderate | Minimal | None | High |
Teaching Materials | Provided | Self-created | Self-created | Provided |
Payment Processing | Handled | Platform managed | Self-managed | Handled |
Student Recruitment | Handled | Self-promoted | Self-promoted | Handled |
Native Speaker Bias | High | Moderate | Moderate | None |
Contract Type | Exclusive | Non-exclusive | Independent | Non-exclusive |
Which Teaching Path?
- Just Starting: The Really Great Teacher Company offers the ideal combination of training, support, and guaranteed students while you build confidence.
- Need Stable Income: ESL Companies or The Really Great Teacher Company provide consistent monthly earnings and regular teaching hours.
- Experienced Teacher: Independent teaching offers the highest earning potential but requires business skills and an established reputation.
- Part-Time or Student: Online marketplaces offer flexibility. However, The Really Great Teacher Company sets morning hours for reliable part-time income that can work for stay-at-home carers.
- Tech-Savvy Marketer: Independent teaching or online marketplaces let you leverage your marketing skills for higher earnings.
- Want Career Growth: The Really Great Teacher Company provides professional development and advancement opportunities while supporting teaching flexibility.
Setup Your Online Classroom
Setting up your teaching space in Argentina requires careful planning, especially considering our local tech landscape and import costs. Here's your complete setup guide:
Technology Requirements
Due to import restrictions, tech can be expensive. Prioritize essential equipment first.
Core Equipment
- Computer Requirements: Intel® Core™ i5 CPU @2 GHz (4 CPUs) or better, with 8GB RAM minimum. Mobile devices won't work.
- Headset: Noise-canceling headphones with microphone. Keep a backup, as audio quality is crucial.
- Webcam: HD camera with 2 megapixels minimum. Built-in laptop cameras often suffice if high quality.
Internet Setup
- Speed Requirements: A minimum of 20 Mbps upload and download is required. Buenos Aires averages 109 Mbps down and 37 Mbps up, but verify your local speeds with speedtest.net.
- Connection Type: Fiber optic (Fibra) preferred. While LAN cables are recommended, quality Wi-Fi can work if your router is nearby.
- Backup Internet: Have a mobile hotspot as a backup. Plan for 1GB of data to cover ten 25-minute lessons.
- Power Considerations: While UPS isn't required, consider a basic one for your router to prevent connection drops during brief power fluctuations.
Pro Tip: Test your setup before interviewing, as speed tests are part of the process.
Creating Your Teaching Space
Essential Setup
- Lighting: Position a desk lamp or ring light behind your computer, facing you. Avoid windows behind you that create shadows.
- Camera Position: Use books or a stand to place the camera at eye level. This creates better connections with students, as your eyes are the focus, not your chin.
- Sound Control: Find the quietest room in your home. Early morning classes mean less street noise.
- Background: A simple, clean wall is best. Remember to keep personal items out of view.
Teaching Tools
- Good props: Props are essential when teaching children. Use flashcards, puppets, and visual aids like maps or charts to make lessons engaging and help reinforce concepts.
- Desk Organization: Arrange your space for easy access to materials.
- Comfortable Seating: Invest in a good chair - you'll teach multiple hours.
Local Considerations
- Temperature Control: Position your setup away from direct sunlight to stay comfortable during morning classes.
- Ventilation: Ensure good airflow so that you are comfortable while teaching.
- Space Planning: Create a dedicated teaching area in smaller apartments.
Minimize Distractions
- Ensure children, visitors, or pets can't enter your frame of vision.
- If needed, create secure play areas for pets or children using portable barriers.
- Remove anything that buzzes, rings, or makes noise.
Remember: Most Argentine teachers already have what they need—focus on creating a distraction-free teaching space that fits within your budget.
Managing Your Online Teaching Income in Argentina
Earnings in USD are a big advantage for Argentina's economy. But you must manage your income carefully, including taxes and payment logistics. Here's what you need to know:
01
Understanding Your Tax Obligations
As an online English teacher in Argentina, you're running a business - even if you teach from home. This means you have tax responsibilities:
- Argentine residents are taxable on worldwide income, including online teaching earnings.
- You'll likely need to register as a monotributista (sole proprietor).
- Tax rates and regulations change frequently.
- Consult an Argentine accountant (Contador Público) for current requirements.
- Keep clear records of all teaching hours, income, and expenses.
02
Getting Paid
Managing international payments in Argentina requires careful planning. Here are your main options:
1) International Payment Services
- Payoneer provides a global payment account and can link with Argentine banks.
- PayPal works but has higher fees.
- Some Argentine banks restrict or time limit transfer payments from online banking platforms like PayPal or Payoneer.
- Each service requires proper documentation and may need special bank arrangements.
2) Traditional Bank Transfers (Wire Transfer)
Wire transfers are secure but can be slow and costly:
- Proof of Income: Argentine banks will ask for documentation about where your money is coming from. They will likely ask for a recent "facturas tipo C".
- Processing Time: Transfers take 3–5 business days, and large amounts may need in-person approval.
- High Fees: While safe, this method is often more expensive than alternatives.
- Paperwork: Be ready for detailed forms and, in some cases, in-person verification, especially for big transfers.
It's reliable but not always the easiest option for freelancers or online teachers.
Important Payment Tips
- Keep clear documentation of all teaching income.
- Research your bank's policies on international transfers before starting.
- Compare fees and exchange rates across different services.
- Consider having backup payment methods in case of system issues.
- Factor in transfer times when planning your finances.
- Remember, banks may have daily or monthly transfer limits.
Consult with an accountant to stay compliant and maximize your earnings.
03
Online Teaching Financial Advice
1) Managing Variable Income
Teaching online brings a flexible income stream but requires careful financial planning:
- Income varies month to month, especially when starting.
- Competition means you need to attract and consistently keep students.
- Work towards building a stable base of regular students.
- Consider teaching on multiple platforms to stabilize earnings.
2) Create a Financial Safety Net
Protect yourself against income fluctuations:
- Save three months of living expenses as an emergency fund.
- Build this safety net gradually from your teaching income.
- Keep these savings in USD when possible, to protect against peso fluctuations.
- Use this buffer for slow months or unexpected expenses.
3) Budget for Self-Employment Costs
As an independent teacher, you'll need to cover your own benefits:
- Health insurance (obra social or prepaga).
- Labor insurance.
- Retirement savings.
- Equipment maintenance and upgrades.
- Professional development (certifications, training).
01
Monthly Budget Planning
Create a realistic 30-day budget that includes:
- Fixed costs (internet, insurance, utilities).
- Variable expenses (equipment maintenance, teaching materials).
- Savings goals (emergency fund, retirement).
- Tax provisions.
- Currency exchange considerations.
Remember: Successful online teachers treat their work as a business, planning carefully for regular and unexpected expenses. Start with conservative estimates and adjust as you gain experience.
Teaching English Online FAQ
How long does the TEFL course take?
A 120-hour TEFL course typically takes 4 weeks to complete when studying part-time. You can finish faster if you dedicate more hours per day.
Which TEFL Certification Should I Choose?
You need an accredited 120-hour TEFL qualification. Many budget courses don't meet international standards, so research carefully. The Really Great Teacher Company offers an accredited TEFL course for online teaching.
What are the Minimum Educational Requirements?
A high school diploma. However, having a university degree (in any field) will give you access to more teaching opportunities and higher rates.
How Important is Pronunciation?
While native-level pronunciation isn't required, clear communication is essential. Common challenges for Argentinian teachers include:
- The "V" and "B" sounds (which can sound similar in Spanish).
- The "SH" sound (uncommon in Argentine Spanish).
- Word stress and intonation patterns.
About 20% of applicants don't pass their initial demo video due to pronunciation issues. We recommend practicing these specific sounds and recording yourself to improve.
What Happens During the Interview Process?
The Really Great Teacher Company evaluates:
- Teaching personality and enthusiasm.
- Clear pronunciation and communication.
- Technical setup (including internet speed test).
- Basic teaching skills.
- Professional presentation.
What Internet Setup Do I Need?
For reliable online teaching, you'll need:
- Fibra (fiber optic) connection is standard in Buenos Aires and is growing elsewhere.
- Minimum 30 Mbps upload and download speeds.
- A wired LAN connection is preferred over Wi-Fi.
- Backup internet choice (mobile hotspot).
- Speed test results from speedtest.net for your interview.
Should I Keep My Day Job When Starting?
We recommend keeping your current job while building your online teaching schedule. You can transition to full-time teaching once you have a stable student base and consistent income.
How Quickly Can I Start Earning?
With The Really Great Teacher Company, you can begin teaching within 72 hours of approval. However, building a full schedule takes most teachers 2-4 weeks as you set yourself up and gain regular students.
Wrap Up
Teaching English online from Argentina offers a unique blend of opportunities and challenges. You can build a rewarding career teaching students worldwide with the right time zone, dollar earnings, and schedule flexibility.
While you'll need to navigate payment systems and currency regulations, the benefits of location independence and professional growth make online teaching an attractive option for motivated educators in Argentina.