For internationals in Madrid · English & Español
New in Madrid? Start with your first week.
Housing, paperwork, healthcare and work — clear next steps when everything feels new.
Your first week in Madrid
- Empadronamiento Register your address and keep the volante.
- NIE / TIE Get the number, then the card that matches your status.
- Transport pass Load an abono for the zones you actually use.
- Bank account Open an account for rent, salary and bills.
- Doctor / health card Sort a doctor and your health cover.
Start here: living in Madrid as a newcomer
Six decisions that come up in the first month, each with a guide.
Housing
Rentals, contracts, deposits and neighbourhoods.
NIE & paperwork
The number, the residence card and the right appointment.
Healthcare
Private clinics, insurance and a first appointment.
Transport
Metro, buses, the airport and which pass to buy.
Jobs
English-friendly hiring routes and how people actually apply.
Spanish courses
Classes that fit work, not a generic school brochure.
Most useful Madrid guides for expats
Step-by-step guides for your first months in Madrid.
Trusted local businesses in Madrid
Hand-picked local services, recently checked.
Colchonerías González
Sanitas Dental
Holmes Place Madrid
Movilman Europa
HomeServe Spain
El Cerrajero Madrid
SPIC AND SPAN Madrid
Mahico Plumbers Madrid
Weekly hikes with the Madrid community
Every weekend we hike in the mountains near Madrid with locals and internationals.
See all eventsBrowse businesses by category
Every category on the site, without the long scroll.
Home & services
Health & family
Food & drink
Recent from @madrid_expats
Madrid moments, trail days and practical finds from the community.
Questions newcomers ask first
Short answers. The guide has the detail.
How do I get a NIE?
Book the appointment that matches your case: a NIE is a number, and the TIE is the residence card. The NIE, TIE and residency basics guide explains the difference and the documents people are usually asked for.
Which transport card should I buy?
Most newcomers buy a public transport pass once they know their zones. Madrid transport basics explains the cards, the airport options and how to load the pass.
How do I find an English-speaking doctor?
A private clinic is the fastest route for many internationals. Public care depends on your registration. Private healthcare in Madrid for expats covers insurance, a first appointment and what to bring.
How much does it cost to live in Madrid?
Rent is the large cost, then transport, food and healthcare. Cost of living in Madrid for newcomers sets out realistic monthly ranges.
How do I meet people?
Join a language exchange, a weekend plan, or the weekly mountain hikes with locals and internationals. Easy weekend trips from Madrid is a practical start, and @madrid_expats posts each hike.
Reach Madrid's international community
List a service that newcomers are already looking for.