How to Teach English in Madrid

Want to teach English in Madrid? We can understand why! Madrid has some of the world’s leading art galleries, tons of green spaces, a buzzing nightlife scene, and delicious food. It’s also a great base if you want to live in a big European city, learn Spanish, and gain work experience abroad. As a native English speaker, you can easily find teaching jobs in the city, as long as you meet the program requirements.

Once you’ve found the right program, the doors of Madrid will open, even when you have no teaching experience. But there’s one catch: you need to get through the application process! We have you covered with this guide, detailing all the requirements to teach English in Madrid, along with the application steps.

Can I teach English in Madrid without a degree?

Teaching in Madrid without a degree is still possible!

Most programs require you to have a degree or still be enrolled in college. Depending on the circumstances, you may get a competitive advantage thanks to your degree. For example, you can mention your degree as one of your qualifications if you’d like to negotiate a higher salary. That said, teaching English in Madrid without a degree is possible, especially if you’re still enrolled in a degree program.

Make sure to read the program requirements as these depend on the organization. This way, you’ll have a clearer idea of whether you need a degree.

Are there requirements to teach English in Madrid?

To teach English in Madrid, there are some nationality, education, and visa requirements.

• Nationality: Many programs hire native English speakers from certain countries, such as the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. If you’re a non-native English speaker and found a suitable program, you may need to show proof of English proficiency, such as an English degree or a TOEFL exam.
• TEFL certificate: You need to hold a TEFL certificate to be a qualified English teacher in Spain. If you don’t already have it, you can look for English language teaching programs that include TEFL certification or provide training.
• Visa: If you’re not a European Union, European Economic Area, or Switzerland citizen, you’ll need a national visa to work as an English teacher in Spain.
• Background check: Many teaching positions require a background check from your country of residence. Depending on the program, you may also need to get a background check at the Spanish Ministry of Justice upon arrival in Spain.
• Working hours: In Madrid, you’ll usually be expected to work 16–20 hours per week. This may vary from program to program, and if you want to work more, you can consider private tutoring.
• Language skills: You’ll only need to speak English to be an English teacher in Madrid. That said, knowing some Spanish will be an advantage. Consider taking some Spanish courses before your placement so you can speak to your students and get by with your everyday tasks.

Get matched with 5 TEFL programs in Madrid right now

How to teach English in Madrid

Being an English teacher in Madrid can make you a fine living.

Madrid is one of the most popular cities to teach in Spain, so you definitely won’t be short of opportunities! But how do you find the best ones that will lead you all the way to your next job in Madrid? Here are the steps:

1. Check application deadlines.

Although most programs accept applications throughout the year, the academic year in Spain typically starts in October. Make your plans in a way you’re ready to travel to Spain in September, but do check application deadlines for different programs. GoAbroad’s teaching directory is a good place to start researching and comparing different programs.

To make sure you have plenty of time, consider beginning your research in January or February. This way, you’ll have all the necessary information by April, which is when most programs start hiring for the next academic year.

2. Choose a program.

There are many providers that offer teaching programs in the Spanish capital. While making your decision, consider application requirements, costs, and the support included. For example, RVF International helps future teachers with their visa application, residency process, and bureaucratic matters in Madrid. They also give teacher training, so even if you don’t have a TEFL certification, you can apply!

3. Double-check application requirements and prepare your documents.

Make sure you have all of the requirements in order to teach English in Madrid.

Make sure you fit the application requirements, be it TEFL, a degree, or your nationality. Some programs require teaching experience, but many accept candidates with no experience as long as they fit the requirements.

Once you’re sure, prepare your documents—these may include passport copies, transcripts, proof of TEFL certification, and a letter of motivation, depending on the organization.

4. Calculate start-up costs.

Plan for initial expenses such as flights, accommodation deposits, visa fees, and living costs for the first few months until you receive your first paycheck. Some programs may also charge a fee to cover costs related to training and on-site support.

Do your best to save some money before the program starts. You would normally have at least five or six months to save if you apply by April and leave for Spain by September.

5. Apply for a visa if necessary.

If you’re a non-EU citizen, you’d probably need a work visa to teach English in Madrid. Start the visa application process as soon as you receive a confirmation from your teaching program. This way, you’ll have enough time to prepare your documents and have your visa ready by the time you need to leave for Spain.

6. Research what to do in Madrid.

Do some research to figure out what you’d like to do in Madrid!

Set realistic expectations by checking accommodation websites, joining expat Facebook groups, and asking questions to your program coordinators.

You never know! This may help you find an amazing apartment before you arrive, meet fellow English teachers online, or learn critical information about living in Madrid. For example, you’ll probably need to apply for a TIE, the Spanish residency card, as you arrive in Madrid. TIE will be your proof of identity in Spain as a non-EU citizen.

7. Book your flight!

When your placement and visa are confirmed, it’s time to book your flight to Madrid! Consider arriving at least a few weeks before your start date to familiarize yourself with the city, do admin tasks, and get over jet lag.

Book your ticket in advance and be flexible to find the best deals—Madrid will be waiting for you!

What can I expect from an English teacher salary in Madrid?

Expect to earn around €1,200 per month for your English teacher salary in Madrid. This can be higher or lower depending on your experience, qualifications, and the institution you’re teaching in. For example, private schools tend to pay more. Depending on the organization you’re going with, you’ll also have benefits with your contract, such as tax exemption and health insurance.

Madrid is one of the cities with the highest English teacher salaries in Spain, but the cost of living is also higher. Some English teachers choose to give private lessons, which enables them to set their own rates, usually ranging between €15 to €30 per hour. Living in Madrid as an English teacher probably won’t make you rich, but it can be your gateway to living a good quality life in a beautiful city.

Explore ALL Teaching Programs in Madrid on GoAbroad

Live your dream life as an English teacher in Madrid!

Madrid is a great place to enjoy outside of teaching hours.

Working in Spain is a great milestone for your teaching career, Spanish language skills, and professional development. And Madrid, in particular, is an amazing city to live in as an expat, with its rich history, culture, food, and endless activities!

Find & Compare TEFL Programs in Spain with MyGoAbroad

This article was written with help from RVF International. Founded in 2017, RVF International’s teaching program offers comprehensive assistance for those seeking to teach English in Spain.