6 Best Visas for Teachers: A Guide for Kenyan Teachers to Teach Abroad

Teaching abroad can be a life-changing experience, teachers get the opportunity to explore other cultures and gain new knowledge thanks to a new life abroad. Cultural Exchange Programs have allowed Kenyan teachers to teach abroad in countries like America, Australia, the UAE, the UK, Canada, and Qatar. Hundreds of teachers relocate from Kenya through cultural exchange programs.

This article will explore different types of visas, the application process, requirements, and opportunities available to Kenyan educators seeking to relocate and teach abroad. Cultural exchange programs are mainly the fastest way for Kenyan teachers to relocate abroad. Here are the various visas (under Cultural Exchange Programs) that allow Kenyan teachers to teach abroad;

Recommended visas for Kenyan teachers to teach abroad

1. J-1 Visa

One common visa for teachers engaging in cultural exchange programs is the J1 visa. The J1 visa typically allows teachers to work in the host country for up to three years. The duration of a J-1 visa may vary, as per the host country and the specific program. Kenyan teachers must familiarize themselves with the visa duration to plan their international teaching experience effectively.

J1 Visa Sponsors and Programs for Africans

Several organizations facilitate cultural exchange programs for teachers, connecting them with opportunities abroad.

Notable J1 sponsors include;

• TPG
• FACES
• Global Teaching Partners
• Greenheart Exchange
• Spirit Cultural Exchange
• PACT
• AIG Austin
• ITES
• Participate Learning ChapelHill

Each sponsor offers a variety of programs with unique features, making it essential for Kenyan teachers to research and choose the one that aligns with their preferences and professional goals.

Requirements for J1 Visa Programs for Kenyans

To qualify for J1 visa programs, Kenyan teachers must meet certain requirements. Common prerequisites include:

• A valid teaching certificate from Kenya.
• A minimum number of years of teaching experience.
• English language proficiency, through tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
• Completion of relevant educational qualifications.
• Clean criminal record.

It is crucial for Kenyan teachers to thoroughly review the specific requirements of their chosen J1 visa sponsor and program to ensure eligibility.

Contract Duration and Host Countries of J1 visa programs for Kenyans

J1 visa sponsors facilitate teaching jobs abroad in various host countries, providing Kenyan teachers with a diverse range of destinations to choose from. The length of contracts offered to foreign teachers varies, some programs offer short-term contracts, while other teacher contracts are more long-term.

The host countries often include the United States, Australia, Dubai, and several European nations. Understanding the contract duration and host country is vital for Kenyan teachers to make informed decisions about their overseas teaching experience.

Support and Benefits of J1 visa programs for Kenyan teachers to teach abroad

J1 visa programs typically offer support and benefits to participating teachers. These may include:

– Orientation sessions to acclimate teachers to the host country’s education system and culture.

– Assistance with securing suitable housing.

– Ongoing professional development opportunities.

– Health insurance coverage.

– Cultural exchange activities to foster a sense of community among teachers.

Kenyan educators should consider these support services when evaluating different J1 visa programs to ensure a smooth and enriching experience abroad.

2. Teaching Visas in the United Kingdom for Kenyan teachers to teach abroad – Tier 2 (General) visa

The United Kingdom offers a Tier 2 (General) visa for skilled workers, including teachers. To qualify, Kenyan teachers must secure a job offer from a UK school and meet the required points based on factors like salary, English language proficiency, and educational qualifications. The process involves;

• Obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) from the employer.
• Submitting an online application.
• Attending a biometric appointment.

3. Teaching Visas in Canada for Kenyans – Temporary Foreign Worker Program

Canada provides the opportunity for Kenyan teachers to teach abroad through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. The application process involves;

• Obtaining a job offer from a Canadian school.
• Securing a positive Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from the employer.
• Applying for a work permit.

The LMIA ensures that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian job market.

4. Teaching Visas in Australia for Africans / Kenyan Teachers – TSS visa

Australia’s Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa allows Kenyan teachers to teach abroad in Australian schools. The process includes;

• Obtaining sponsorship from an Australian employer.
• Meeting the relevant skills and qualifications criteria.
• Applying for the TSS visa.

This visa is granted for up to four years, providing an extended teaching job abroad opportunity for Kenyan educators.

5. Teaching Visas in New Zealand for Kenyans – Essential Skills Work Visa

New Zealand’s Essential Skills Work Visa is a viable option for Kenyan teachers. To qualify, educators need a job offer from a New Zealand school and must meet health and character requirements. The visa duration depends on the employment contract’s length, offering flexibility for teachers looking for short or long-term positions.

6. Teaching Visas in the Middle East (UAE and Qatar) for Kenyans

For Kenyan teachers interested in the Middle East, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) do offer opportunities through work visas. In the UAE, a Teacher’s License is required for you to be able to teach in private schools; therefore, teachers can apply for the Teacher’s License.

Qatar, on the other hand, requires a job offer from a Qatari school and a valid work visa for a teacher to be employed.

Considerations and Visa Application Process for Kenyan teachers to teach abroad

When applying for alternative teaching visas, Kenyan teachers should consider the following steps:

– Research Visa Requirements: Understand all the requirements of each country’s teaching visa, including qualifications, language proficiency, and background checks.

– Secure Job Offers: Actively seek job opportunities through international teaching recruitment agencies, online job portals, or direct applications to schools.

– Obtain Necessary Documentation: Collect and prepare all required documents, such as educational certificates, letters of recommendation, and proof of English language proficiency.

– Navigate the Immigration Process: Familiarize yourself with the visa application process for the chosen country, including any medical examinations or biometric appointments required.

– Stay Informed: Keep abreast of changes in visa policies and regulations, ensuring compliance with the latest requirements.

Benefits of Exploring Alternative Visas

Choosing alternative teaching visas provides Kenyan educators with several advantages:

– Diversified Opportunities: Opens doors to a variety of countries with unique cultures and educational systems.

– Extended Stay Options: Some visas offer longer durations, allowing teachers to immerse themselves in the local community and experience sustained professional growth.

– Flexibility: Provides flexibility in choosing teaching destinations based on personal preferences and career goals.

Conclusion

While the J1 visa remains a valuable option, Kenyan teachers have a spectrum of alternative visas to explore, each offering distinct advantages for Kenyan teachers to teach abroad. Kenya / Africa educators overseas are beneficial to not only the educators but to the students and the world as a whole. The knowledge of various teaching visas and the application process is a guide for Kenyan teachers to teach abroad.