Moving from London to Madrid

Moving from London to Madrid represents a significant life change that combines the excitement of Spanish culture with practical relocation challenges.

Initial Planning Steps

Start your planning at least 3-6 months before the intended move date.

Check visa requirements (if applicable)
Research housing markets
Set up a moving budget
Begin learning basic Spanish

Legal Requirements

EU citizens no longer have automatic rights to live in Spain due to Brexit.

Apply for the appropriate visa (work, student, or non-lucrative)
Register for NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)
Obtain empadronamiento (local registration) once you have an address

Housing Options

Popular expat areas in Madrid include Salamanca, Chamberí, and Retiro.

Area	Average Rent (1 bed)	Best For
Salamanca	€1,200-1,500	Luxury living
Chamberí	€900-1,200	Families
Retiro	€1,000-1,300	Green spaces

Moving Your Belongings

Consider these reliable international moving companies:

Crown Relocations: +44 20 3318 9196
AGS International Movers: +34 916 579 408
Pickfords: +44 800 019 8557

Banking and Finances

Set up a Spanish bank account with banks that cater to expats.

Banco Sabadell
BBVA
Santander

Healthcare

Education

International schools in Madrid for English-speaking students include:

American School of Madrid
British Council School
International College Spain

Transport Links

Madrid’s excellent public transport system includes:

Metro: €1.50-2.00 per journey
EMT buses: €1.50 per journey
Monthly transport pass: €54.60

Cost Comparison

Expense	London	Madrid
Coffee	£3.50	€1.50
Monthly transport	£158	€54.60
Restaurant meal	£20	€12

Quick Tips

Keep important documents in both digital and physical formats
Research Spanish mobile phone providers before arrival
Join expat groups on Facebook and Meetup for local advice
Consider short-term accommodation for the first month
Schedule your move outside peak tourist season

For additional support, contact the British Embassy in Madrid: +34 917 146 300.

Settling In

The first few months in Madrid require attention to several practical matters.

Utilities Setup

Electricity: Iberdrola or Endesa
Water: Canal de Isabel II
Internet: Movistar, Orange, or Vodafone

Language Integration

Consider these language learning options to improve your Spanish:

Language exchanges (intercambios)
Official language schools (EOI)
Private tutoring: €15-25/hour

Cultural Adaptation

Understanding Madrid’s daily rhythm helps with integration:

Later meal times (lunch 2-4 PM, dinner 9-11 PM)
Siesta culture (some shops close 2-5 PM)
Extended social hours into late evening

Working Life

Key differences in Spanish work culture:

Standard workday: 9:00-19:00 with long lunch
August slowdown (many businesses reduce operations)
More emphasis on work-life balance

Conclusion

Moving to Madrid offers a vibrant lifestyle change with lower living costs than London. Success depends on thorough preparation, especially regarding legal requirements and housing. While initial bureaucracy can be challenging, the city’s cultural richness, excellent infrastructure, and high quality of life make it an attractive destination for expats.

Key to a smooth transition:

Start paperwork early
Learn basic Spanish
Build a social network
Embrace local customs
Maintain patience during the adjustment period

FAQs

What documents do I need to move from London to Madrid as a UK citizen post-Brexit?
You need a valid passport, proof of financial means, health insurance coverage, and either a work visa, student visa, or other relevant Spanish residency permit. If staying longer than 3 months, you must register for a TIE (Foreigner Identity Card).
How do I register as a resident in Madrid?
First, obtain your NIE (Foreigner Identity Number) at a police station, then register on the padรณn (municipal registry) at your local council office. Within 30 days of arrival, apply for your TIE if staying long-term.
What are the average rental costs in Madrid compared to London?
Madrid’s rental prices are approximately 40-50% lower than London’s. A one-bedroom apartment in Madrid’s city center averages โฌ900-1,200 per month, compared to ยฃ1,800-2,500 in central London.
How do I set up utilities and internet in Madrid?
Major providers include Iberdrola (electricity), Canal de Isabel II (water), and Movistar/Vodafone/Orange (internet). You’ll need your NIE, rental contract, and Spanish bank account to set up services.
What is the process for transferring a UK driving license to a Spanish one?
Post-Brexit, UK licenses must be exchanged for Spanish ones within 6 months of residency. Visit a DGT office with your UK license, NIE, residency documentation, passport photos, and medical certificate.
How does the Spanish healthcare system work for expats?
If employed, you’ll have access to public healthcare through social security contributions. Private health insurance is required for visa applications and recommended for faster specialist access.
What’s the best way to transfer my belongings to Madrid?
International moving companies like UPS, DHL, or specialized relocation services can handle door-to-door shipping. EU customs documentation is required post-Brexit for personal belongings.
How do I open a Spanish bank account?
Major banks include Santander, BBVA, and CaixaBank. You’ll need your passport, NIE, proof of address, and employment contract. Some banks offer English-speaking services for expats.
What’s the process for registering with Spanish tax authorities?
Apply for a tax number (same as NIE) and submit a Modelo 030 form to declare residency for tax purposes. Spanish tax year runs January to December with returns due by June.
How can I find English-speaking services and expat communities in Madrid?
Join groups like InterNations or Madrid Expats, use resources like citylife Madrid, and connect through Facebook groups such as “Expats in Madrid.” Many areas like Salamanca and Chamberi have large expat populations.