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Teaching Jobs in Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, the second largest city in Spain and capital of the autonomous Catalonian region, is widely known as one of the most beautiful and culturally enriching cities in the world. With days spent lounging on the white sand beaches, evenings strolling Las Ramblas, and nights dancing like there’s no tomorrow at one of the many discotecas, individuals who choose to teach abroad in Barcelona are guaranteed to have a fun, relaxing, and rewarding experience living in this vibrant Mediterranean city.
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4 Teaching Jobs in Barcelona

a TEFL teacher touring the city of Barcelona
International TEFL Academy logo

International TEFL Academy

9.46

28

Get TEFL Certified & Teach English in Spain!

The TEFL field in Spain is booming, so if you seek to explore new...

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International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

9.55

804

Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 155,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back; it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

TEFL Heaven

9.67

3

Paid Teaching in Barcelona & Lifetime Placement Guarantee

Take this opportunity to teach abroad and immerse yourself in a vibrant cosmopolitan capital! We provide a guaranteed job placement at one of our trusted partner schools, with a salary ranging from $965 to $1930. Receive extensive support before your departure and benefit from round-the-clock assistance during your teaching placement! Earn your TESOL/TEFL certification in the famous city of Barcelona in a group classroom setting! Our program also comes with a 1-week cultural orientation with exciting group activities. Take Spanish language classes (adapted to your level) throughout your stay with our education visa program for non-EU candidates. Feeling ready? Apply now but hurry as spaces are limited and are being snapped up fast: 26 August 2024 - spaces available 18 November 2024 - spaces available We currently only have 2 intake dates a year. This program is extremely popular and is likely to fill up quickly, so we recommend booking at least 6 months before your preferred start date. Inquire now to chat with one of our Abroad Advisors—who all have taught abroad as well!

A Guide to Teaching Abroad in Barcelona

Teaching Jobs in Barcelona

Most teaching jobs in Barcelona are focused on teaching English as a Second Language. Spain’s educated population has a significantly lower English proficiency level than most Western European nations, so English teachers are increasingly in demand, since English is becoming more and more important for conducting business internationally. Though some opportunities to teach English in Barcelona are open to anyone, aspiring teachers will find that most schools and academic institutions expect teachers to have a TEFL, TESOL, or other teaching credential or experience. 

There are many opportunities to teach in Barcelona at international language academies, as well as teaching placements in local education-related organizations. Other English teaching jobs in Barcelona include positions at private language schools or Spanish companies, who often look for English teachers to boost business English proficiency of employees. Private tutoring is also an option for individuals who want to teach in Barcelona, however it does not offer a very stable salary or predictable schedule.

It is important to note that as opposed to most other regions in Spain, the language of public education in Barcelona is Catalan, a slightly different form of the Spanish language. The use of Catalan often hampers individuals from teaching in Barcelona, as it often creates a more difficult language barrier when teaching subjects other than English, even when teachers are fluent in Spanish. However, most English teaching jobs in Barcelona do not require teachers to speak Catalan, so regardless of your bilingual skill set you should be fine teaching English in Barcelona. Most locals do speak both Spanish and Catalan fluently, but knowing a bit of both will help you greatly in affairs outside the classroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

English teachers in Barcelona earn an average of €1,350 (approximately $1,475) per month. Salaries vary based on factors like the placement, educational background, and qualifications. Many English teaching positions in other EU countries might pay higher, but have the assurance that you’ll still have enough money left to enjoy Barcelona.

You don’t have to speak Spanish to teach English in Spain. But some knowledge would be an asset, especially if you’re planning to live and work long term in the country. Most employers prefer teachers with native or near native proficiency so students are truly motivated to learn English.

It’s not hard to find a place to stay while teaching abroad in Barcelona. The Catalonian capital boasts plenty of unique neighborhoods. La Ribera and Sant Pere feature Old World charm, while El Raval is dotted with restaurants and tapas bars. Guarantee that everything is within walking distance at the Eixample.

Absolutely! You don’t have to be an EU citizen to teach English in Spain, as long as you possess the right visa. You can apply for either a work, student, or working holiday visa. Ask the Spanish embassy in your country which type is applicable for you.

The cost of living in Spain is considerably lower than several other countries in the EU. In fact, it’s way more affordable than in the US. You can thrive on €1,000 per month, which already includes basic living expenses. On the other hand, a budget of around €1,700 offers luxuries like travels and shopping.

Latest Program Reviews

Three weeks volunteering in Siem Reap

August 11, 2025by: Olivia Aurora Lamassa - Switzerland

Program: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

9

I spent three weeks volunteering at Salariin Kampuchea Learning Center in Siem Reap, where I helped teach English to younger students and supported the development of their social media presence. It was one of the most enriching experiences I’ve ever had. Some days were more challenging than others—adapting to a new environment and finding ways to communicate across cultures. But what I’ll carry with me, more than anything, is the deep sense of connection I felt with the people. I can confidently say I’ve grown and learned so much, and that’s something I’ll always be grateful for. Living and working within the local community gave me a complete perspective shift. I was struck by their warmth and generosity, and the quiet strength with which they face life. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed. The children, the staff, and my host family made me feel included from the start, making it easy to feel at home throughout my time there

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