Everything you need to know about becoming an international teacher in Mynamar
Category: News
Published: 17 October 2023
International teachers
Myanmar is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a growing demand for quality education. As the country continues to develop, there is a growing need for skilled and experienced teachers to help shape the future of its youth.
If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding teaching experience in a dynamic and exciting country, then Myanmar is the perfect destination for you.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about becoming an international teacher in the Myanmar, including visa requirements, cost of living, healthcare, cultural expectations and norms, and expat communities.
Visa requirements for international teachers in Myanmar
The visa process for international teachers wanting to live and work in Myanmar can be complex but is manageable with proper preparation and guidance. The first step is to obtain a job offer from a registered school in Myanmar. Once you have secured a job, your employer will provide you with a recommendation letter to apply for a work visa. You will need to provide a valid passport, passport-sized photos, and other supporting documents, including educational degrees, work experience, and medical certificates.
After gathering all required documents, you must apply for a business visa at the nearest Myanmar embassy or consulate. The business visa is valid for 70 days and can be extended for another 70 days once you arrive in Myanmar.
Once you arrive in Myanmar, you must register with the nearest township immigration office within 24 hours. You will need to submit your passport, visa, and other relevant documents to obtain a temporary stay permit. You must also undergo a medical checkup and obtain a health certificate from a designated medical facility.
After obtaining the temporary stay permit, you can then apply for a residence permit, which is valid for up to one year. The residence permit requires additional documents, including a police clearance certificate and a recommendation letter from your employer.
Cost of living for international teachers in Myanmar
The cost of living for international teachers in Myanmar is generally lower than in Western and other Asian countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking to save money while enjoying a unique and rewarding experience.
Accommodation costs can vary widely depending on the location, with apartments and houses available in both urban and rural areas. Food and dining expenses are relatively inexpensive, as are transportation costs and utilities.
Overall, international teachers in Myanmar can enjoy a comfortable standard of living while still saving money on a modest salary.
Cost of living in Yangon (USD)
Rent for one-bedroom apartment in city centre – $745 per month
Rent for one-bedroom apartment outside city centre – $275 per month
Loaf of bread – $1.05
Litre of milk – $1.90
12 eggs – $1.45
Takeaway coffee – $2.65
Meal for two at mid-range restaurant – $21.50
Meal at inexpensive restaurant – $2.00
Public transport – $0.15 one way
Healthcare for international teachers in Myanmar
The healthcare system in Myanmar has undergone significant improvements in recent years, but there are still challenges to be addressed. The country has a mixture of public and private healthcare facilities, with the majority of the population relying on public services.
International teachers can access healthcare through private clinics and hospitals, which offer a higher standard of care and English-speaking staff. However, these facilities can be expensive, and it is important to have health insurance to cover the costs of any necessary medical treatment.
It’s also recommended that international teachers receive vaccinations before traveling to Myanmar to protect against infectious diseases such as typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and Japanese encephalitis.
In the event of a medical emergency, it is best to seek treatment at an international hospital, which provides a higher level of care and has access to specialized medical equipment.
Many international schools in Myanmar offer health insurance as part of their employment package.
Cultural expectations and norms for international teachers in Myanmar
As a predominantly Buddhist country, Myanmar has a strong emphasis on respect for tradition, hierarchy, and family values.
It’s important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting temples or other religious sites. Physical contact, such as hugging or kissing, should also be avoided in public spaces.
In Myanmar, teachers are highly respected and are expected to behave accordingly. They are seen as role models for students and should maintain a professional demeanour at all times. It’s important to establish a good rapport with colleagues and administrators, and to be punctual and reliable in all aspects of work.
The Myanmar education system places great emphasis on rote learning and memorisation, so international teachers should be prepared to adapt their teaching methods to suit local cultural expectations. Students are expected to be attentive and respectful to teachers, so classroom management should be firm but respectful.
In social situations, it’s customary to remove shoes before entering someone’s home, and it’s polite to bring a small gift, such as fruit or flowers, as a token of appreciation. It’s also common to exchange pleasantries and inquire about each other’s families before getting down to business.
Expat communities for international teachers in Myanmar
Myanmar has a thriving expat community, with many international teachers living and working in the country. There are many social groups and organisations for expats in Myanmar, including sports teams, book clubs, and cultural associations, which provide opportunities for expats to make friends and get involved in the local community.
Many schools also have strong support systems for their international staff, offering assistance with housing, visas, and other practical matters.
Additionally, there are many online forums and resources available for expats in Myanmar, providing valuable information and advice on everything from where to find the best restaurants to how to navigate the healthcare system.
Overall, the expat community in Myanmar is a tight-knit and supportive group, making it a great place for international teachers to live and work.
Schrole international schools in Myanmar
Ready to find out what Myanmar has to offer you? Explore Schrole international schools in Myanmar now:
I cannot stress enough the impact Schrole has had on the overall quality of educators we have recruited. By leveraging its powerful search capabilities, comprehensive candidate profiles, and advanced tools, we have successfully identified exceptional teachers who have had an immeasurable impact on our student's lives. Their passion, dedication, and innovative teaching methodologies have elevated the standard of education at our school and ignited a love for learning among our students.
Daiju Vithayathil
Secondary School Principal
Panyaden International School
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