living in Madrid The Expat's handbook living in Madrid The expat's handbook

April 2011

living in MadridThe Expat's handbook

living in MadridThe expat’s handbook

LIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK Index

INDEX 2

FORWARD 5

1. INTRODUCTION 9

Spain: local, regional and national government

Madrid, the capital of Spain

Symbols of Madrid

City areas

Madrid´s economic activity

Climate

Time Di!erence

2. TAKING UP RESIDENCE IN MADRID 23

Entering Spain, staying, and acquiring residency: legal requirements

Registering as a resident in Madrid

Useful links and application procedures

3. LIVE IN MADRID 40

Temporary accommodation

Residential areas

Renting

Buying a property

Registration or name changes with utilities companies: water,

electricity, gas, telephone

4. FINANCIAL SYSTEM AND TAXES 55

Banks and Savings Banks

Taxes

April 2011

LIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK Index

5. COMMUNICATIONS 65

Telephone

Internet access

Media

Postal services

6. TRANSPORT 76

Madrid-Barajas Airport

Road access

By train

Urban transportation: Metro, bus and taxi

Driving licenses

Driving in Madrid

7. HEALTHCARE 91

Public healthcare

Private healthcare

Other information

8. EDUCATION 99

The Spanish educational system

Bilingual education and international schools

After school activities

The academic year

University studies

Foreign university transcript equivalencies

Non o!cial post graduats studies: master courses, specialisations, and expert,

and other courses

April 2011

9. CULTURE AND LEISURE 114

Learning the language

Culture

Gastronomy

Tipping

Leisure

Religious worship

Green Madrid

Shopping

Festivals

Madrid’s nightlife

Music and shows

Activities for kids

10. OTHER INFORMATION 155

Cosumer protection

Security forces

Safety tips

Firearms

Pets

Useful telephone numbers

Public holidays

Common courtesies

IndexLIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK

April 2011

Welcome to Madrid, an attractive, friendly and welcoming city

Thousands of people from all over the world have experienced that Madrid is an attractive, friendly and welcoming city and thus have chosen to work and live here, either temporarily or permanently. Over the last two decades, the influx of people from 172 different countries and the warm welcome they have received from Madrid’s residents have made the city a truly cosmopolitan place, open to new cultures, and a perfect setting for letting talent flourish and enjoying life.

Thanks to its manageable size and its friendly residents Madrid is a very pleasant place to live, even though – like in all major cities – there is some degree of congestion and chaos, it is surprisingly easy to get about in Madrid. The city is wel l sign-posted, the public transport system is first-class, and locals are always willing to como to the rescue of lost visitors.

Furthermore, Madrid is home to some of the world’s most outstanding monuments and landmarks. Wherever you look there is always something interesting to see or do, be it a monument or historic building, an exhibition, or a day trip to a charming medieval town. In Madrid, all these places of interest are within easy reach.

It is always challenging to move to another country, and having to adapt to living and work in a new city, particularly if you have arrived with your family. Some time is needed to get used to different customs and to pick up the cultural reference points. Madrid Emprende, the Madrid City Council Economic Development Agency, has put this guide together with two aims in mind: first, to warmly welcome you to Madrid, and, after that, to help you settle in the city.

PRESENTATION

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LIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK Foreword

6

‘Gran Vía’ street



As an introduction, Chapter 1 provides an overall picture of Madrid, its history and symbols, its different regions, its economic activities, the climate and many other subjects of interest.

Chapter 2 focuses on entering, staying and living in Spain and provides information on work and residence permits, which are essential for accessing all the different services available to you and for exercising your rights.

This guide provides comprehensive information to help you find a home, be it temporary accommodation or a permanent residence. We also cover other basics such as water, electricity and telephone connections, finding domestic help, etc.

Next, you will learn about the most practical aspects of Spain’s banking and tax system, communications, types of telephone contracts (landline, mobile), Internet, Spanish and international media (press, radio and television) and transportation.

The health and education systems are covered in Chapters 7 and 8.

Lastly, we take a look at Madrid’s cultural and leisure opportunities, covering everything from a pleasant stroll in one of the city’s many parks to visiting one of the world’s leading art galleries, and touching on the wide variety in music, theatre and gastronomy.

We have also included other miscellaneous topics that may be of use, such as safety recommendations, travelling with pets, useful and emergency telephone numbers and public holidays.

We hope that the Living in Madrid Expatriate Guide will be useful in helping you get settled in our city, as a reference both before you arrive and while residing in Madrid.

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8

‘Casa de campo’

1

LIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK

INTRODUCTION



History and information about the city

Symbols of Madrid

The bear and the strawberry tree

City areas

Madrid, organised by districts

Madrid’s economy activity

A constantly evolving city

Climate

The weather in Madrid

Time Di!erence


The Kingdom of Spain, the second largest country in the European Union, has a surface area of over 500,000 km² in the southwest corner of the continent. Spain covers most of the Iberian Peninsula, which it shares with Portugal, and includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean and the cities of Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa.

The Spanish Constitution of 1978 establishes the State as a parliamentary monarchy (the King is the Head of State) and confers national sovereignty on the people by means of universal right to vote. The Constitution assigns legislative power to the Cortes Generales (the bicameral parliament made up of the Congreso de los Diputados

(Congress of Deputies) and the Senado (Senate), executive power to the national government headed by the Prime Minister, and judicial power to judges and magistrates.

1. IntroductionLIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK

‘La Real Casa de Correos’

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Spain is one of the most decentralised countries in Europe. There are three levels of public administration: the general state administration, the autonomous communities and the local administrations or municipalities.

Spain is divided into 17 autonomous communities, each one made up of one or more provinces, plus the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa. There are 50 provinces and 8,108 municipalities in Spain, the largest of which is Madrid, with 3,255,944 residents (6,386,932 when including the metropolitan area).

Each autonomous community has its own autonomous statute, which regulates its powers and responsibilities and its institutional organisation, consisting of a legislative assembly enacting legislation applicable to the autonomous community, a government council, with executive and administrative functions headed by a president, and a high court of justice, with judicial power throughout the autonomous community.

Of these divisions, local administration is the closest to the day-to-day life of residents. The City Council (Ayuntamiento) is the administrative body of each municipality, and is headed by a mayor, who, along with the city councillors, is responsible for local legislation and regulations. Councils are financed with funds from the national budget and through local taxes. Among other matters, councils is responsible for traffic planning, safety in public places, town planning, water supply and street lighting, and public passenger transport.

Residents should be aware which administrative body handles the matters or needs that may arise on a day-to-day basis. This information is available in all administration offices. The Madrid City Council also offers Línea Madrid, an information service available in person, by telephone and online.

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Online information• www.munimadrid.es

Telephone• 010, if calling from within Madrid.• 91 529 82 10, if calling from outside Madrid.


HISTORY AND INFORMATION ABOUT THE CITY

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is strategically located in the geographical centre of the Iberian Peninsula, 646 metres above sea level. A cosmopolitan city with modern infrastructure, Madrid is the economic, financial, administrative and service centre of the country. The city also has a rich cultural and artistic heritage, the legacy of centuries of history.

Madrid has one the best preserved old towns in Europe, which harmoniously blends with its modern and comfortable infrastructure. It also offers a more than adequate range of accommodations and services, state-of-the-art audiovisual and communications media technology, and rich cultural and artistic activity. Coupled with the energy and enthusiasm of its open, dynamic and friendly residents, these conditions have made Madrid one of the western world’s greatest capital cities.

In 1561, King Philip II decided to move the court from Toledo to Madrid. This event had an enormous effect on the town, as in addition to becoming the place of residence for the king, his family and entourage, it also entailed the relocation of the central state agencies and a continuous influx of people attracted by the court.

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During Spain’s Golden Age (16th and 17th century), Madrid saw a spectacular growth and became the capital of the Spanish empire. It was at this time when some of the first sumptuous palaces, churches, convents, and other landmarks still found in the Madrid de los Austrias (Madrid of the House of Austrias) area were built.

The architectural elements comprising the city’s landmarks were actually built over several centuries. These include the Plaza Mayor (Main Square) and the Retiro Park, created in the 17th century under the reign of King Philip III; the Royal Palace, built in the 18th century under King Philip V; and the Basílica de San Francisco el Grande (Basilica of Saint Francis the Great), the Casa de Correos. (Post Office), the Puerta de

Alcalá (Alcalá Gate), the Prado Museum and the Botanical Gardens, commissioned by King Charles III, who was known as “Madrid’s Greatest Mayor” and the first representative of the Madrid de los

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Congress of Deputies


(Madrid of the House of Bourbon). During the Age of Enlightenment, Madrid became home to museums, academies and libraries. The mid-19th century saw the construction of the Palacio de las Cortes (the former Court Palace, now the seat of the Congress of Deputies), the railway linking Madrid with Aranjuez and the Isabel II Channel supplying water to the city. The first tram lines, linking the Puerta del Sol with outlying areas, appeared towards the end of that century.

In the early 20th century the Gran Vía Madrileña (main shopping street), the Ciudad Universitaria and the Nuevos Ministerios areas were designed. The first line of the Madrid underground railway (Metro) also came into being at this time (North-South line, October 1919). The Madrid National Airport opened to air traffic on April 22nd 1931.

In the 20th century, much of Madrid was destroyed during the Civil War, which was followed by General Franco’s dictatorship and a post-war depression.

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Madrid Arquitecture

Following the death of General Franco in 1975, Juan Carlos I was proclaimed King of Spain. This was the start of a transition to a democratic political system. The 1978 Constitution is the result of a broad consensus and fully adheres to the western democratic tradition. The constitution is based on the proclamation of fundamental rights and civil liberties, the division of powers, and popular sovereignty. It establishes Spain as a social and democratic state, subject to the rule of law, and determines that the government is a parliamentary monarchy and Madrid is the capital of the country. The image of Spain abroad underwent a transformation and the country has become an exemplary model for such a transition.


EL OSO Y EL MADROÑO ( THE BEAR AND THE STRAWBERRY TREE)

Symbols of Madrid

A bear and a strawberry tree are the distinguishing symbols of Madrid and are represented on the city’s coat of arms and in the well-known

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Skyline


MADRID, ORGANISED BY DISTRICTS

sculpture at the Puerta del Sol, in the heart of the Spanish capital. According to legend, the bear leaning on a strawberry tree is actually a she-bear (despite the use of the masculine form in Spanish), named for the Ursa Minor constellation, and was chosen by the city council to differentiate Madrid’s wealth from that of the church.

Madrid’s flag shows the city’s coat of arms against a crimson backdrop.

City Areas

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The bear and the strawberry tree

Madrid is divided into twenty-one districts, which in turn are divided into neighbourhoods as follows:

1. CENTRO: Palacio, Embajadores, Cortes, Justicia, Universidad, Sol.

2. ARGANZUELA: Paseo Imperial, Acacias, Chopera, Legazpi, Delicias,

Palos de Moguer, Atocha.

3. RETIRO: Pacífico, Adelfas, Estrella, Ibiza, Jerónimos, Niño Jesús.

4. SALAMANCA: Recoletos, Goya, Fuente del Berro, Guindalera, Lista,

Castellana.

5. CHAMARTÍN: El Viso, Prosperidad, Ciudad Jardín, Hispanoamérica,

Nueva España, Pza. Castilla.

6. TETUÁN: Bellas Vistas, Cuatro Caminos, Castillejos, Almenara,

Valdeacederas, Berruguete.

7. CHAMBERÍ: Gaztambide, Arapiles, Trafalgar, Almagro, Vallehermoso,

Ríos Rosas.

8. FUENCARRAL-EL PARDO: El Pardo, Fuentelarreina, Peñagrande,

Barrio del Pilar, La Paz, Valverde, Mirasierra,

El Goloso.


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Retiro Park

Paseo Imperial, Acacias, Chopera, Legazpi, Delicias,

o, Prosperidad, Ciudad Jardín, Hispanoamérica,

9. MONCLOA-ARAVACA: Casa de Campo, Argüelles, Ciudad Universitaria,

Valdezarza, Valdemarín, El Plantío, Aravaca.

10. LATINA: Los Cármenes, Puerta del Ángel, Lucero, Aluche,

Las Águilas, Campamento, Cuatro Vientos.

11. CARABANCHEL: Comillas, Opañel, San Isidro, Vista Alegre, Puerta

Bonita, Buenavista, Abrantes.

12. USERA: Orcasitas, Orcasur, San Fermín, Almendrales, Moscardó,

Zofio, Pradolongo.

13. PUENTE DE VALLECAS: Entrevías, San Diego, Palomeras Bajas,

Palomeras Sureste, Portazgo, Numancia.

14. MORATALAZ: Pavones, Horcajo, Marroquina, Media Legua,

Fontarrón, Vinateros.

15. CIUDAD LINEAL: Ventas, Pueblo Nuevo, Quintana, San Pascual

San Juan Bautista, Colina, Atalaya, Costillares.

16. HORTALEZA: Palomas, Valdefuentes, Canillas, Pinar del Rey,

Apóstol Santiago, Piovera.

17. VILLAVERDE: San Andrés, San Cristóbal, Butarque, Los Rosales,

Los Ángeles.

18. VILLA DE VALLECAS: Casco Histórico de Vallecas, Santa Eugenia

19. VICÁLVARO: Casco Histórico de Vicálvaro, Ambroz.

20. SAN BLAS: Simancas, Hellín, Amposta, Arcos, Rosas, Canillejas,

Salvador, Rejas.

21. BARAJAS: Alameda de Osuna, Aeropuerto, Casco Histórico de

Barajas, Timón, Corralejos.


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A CONSTANTLY EVOLVING CITY

Madrid’s economic activity

Madrid has experienced a series of rapid, far-reaching changes to both its internal structure and morphology, as well as its relations with Spain’s other autonomous regions and foreign countries, directly affecting its businesses and creating new challenges for the city's revitalisation and planning.

A latest trend to consider is the evolution of urban societies and economies to what is known as the “knowledge society”. Madrid is also evolving in this respect, and like other European cities it is specialisingmore and more in industrial activities linked to new information and communication technologies and other advanced services. Companies from traditional sectors with highly innovative work, production policies, etc. are a part of these changes too.

Madrid's production system is characterised by its diversification and specialisation in areas of high technological complexity.

Madrid’s economic activity, steadily increasing in recent years, stands out for its great diversification and specialisation in service activities, which account for 83.5% of the Gross Value Added (GVA) of the city’s economy. The city's most important services include business, transport, communications, property and financial intermediation. It is not for nothing that Madrid is the world's fourth international financial market, just behind Paris, and after New York and London. It is the gateway to the US market and a market for the quotation of new technology companies, through its Alternative Investment Market.

Another major activity in Madrid is tourism, with much of the workforce employed in retail and the hotel and restaurant trade. In 2009, 7.2 million people visited the city.

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Remarkable is the significant growth of the private sector in activities such as health, education and social services which, together with the public sector, now cover 17% of the city’s services. The city of Madrid has the highest GDP per capita in Spain, in both nominal and purchasing power terms. In 2009, the city was 69% above the average in Spain and 76% above the average of the EU-27.

Madrid's economic dynamism would not be possible without a vital factor in the city's production capacity: its high level of training and research. Madrid is Spain's leading region in R&D investment in relation to its production: 2.06% of its GDP compared to an average of 1.38% throughout Spain.

Madrid's economic dynamism would not be possible without a vital factor in the city's production capacity: its high level of training and research. Madrid is Spain's leading region in R&D investment in relation to its production: 2.06% of its GDP compared to an average of 1.38% throughout Spain.

Shopping in Madrid


Climate

Madrid is at the geographical centre of the Iberian Peninsula. At 656 m above sea level, situated on a plateau and protected by surrounding mountain chains, Madrid’s summers are hot and its winters are relatively cold, i.e., a typical continental climate.

In Madrid, winter clothes are essential in December, January and February. Light clothing, sandals and sunglasses are must-haves in summer.

Autumn and spring are the best times to visit Madrid. The different seasons and weather changes are reflected in the intensely bright blue sky, which takes on a myriad of colours at sunrise and sunset. These purples, pinks and oranges reflect the vitality, energy and zest for life of the people living under that sky. General Information:

• Altitude: 667m above sea level.• Number of sunny days and hours of sunshine: 97 sunny days/year; 2,579 hours of sunshine/year.• Annual average rainfall: 436mm.

Source: National Institute of Meteorology.Further information: State Meteorological Agency: www.aemet.esWeather Channel: http://www.canalmeteo.com

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Time zone difference in winterLisbon / London / Casablanca / Dublin: - 1 hour.Athens / Istanbul / Helsinki / Kiev / Jerusalem / Cairo / Johannesburg: + 1 hour.Buenos Aires / Rio de Janeiro / Brasilia / Greenland: - 4 hours.Moscow / Saint Petersburg: +2 hours.Caracas / La Paz: - 5 hours.New Delhi: + 4:30 hours.New York / Washington / Montreal / Bogotá / Lima / Quito: - 6 hours.Bangkok / Hanoi: + 6 hours.Mexico City / Dallas: - 7 hours.Hong Kong / Beijing /Singapore / Perth / Taipei: + 7 hours.Los Angeles / San Francisco: - 9 hours.Tokyo / Osaka / Seoul: + 8 hours.Hawaii: - 11 hours.Sydney /Melbourne / Vladivostok: + 9 hours

Time di�erence

Madrid’s time zone is GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) +1. The following table shows the hours to be added (+) or taken away (-) from Spanish peninsular time. For instance, when it is 12:00 in Madrid, it is 7:00 in Beijing.

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2. Taking up residenceLIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK

TAKING UP RESIDENCE IN MADRID

Entering Spain, staying, and obtaining a

residence card:

legal requirements

Work and residence permits

Foreign resident identi!cation number (NIE)

Residence Card

Reuni!cation of families

Students

Submission of applications

Large companies unit


Useful links and application procedures


Entering Spain, staying, and obtaining residency: legal

requirements

Foreigners in Spain are either considered to be in a short-term stay or to have residency. The short-term stay may not exceed 90 days, after which time either a short-term stay extension or a residence permit must be obtained.

Foreigners wishing to live and work in Spain should request information from the Spanish Consulate in their country of origin regarding the procedures and the documentation required to obtain a visa. Different types of visas apply to different situations (residency, work and residency, student, etc.), although in certain cases foreigners will need to obtain a residence card as well.

Spain has implemented two different systems governing residency of foreigners, depending on the country of origin: the Community system and the general system.

For further information on Spanish legislation governing residency of foreigners, procedures, required documentation, filing periods, Spanish consulates abroad, foreign embassies in Madrid, etc., please visit the websites of the Ministerio del Interior (Ministry of the Interior) (www.mir.es), the Ministerio de Trabajo e Inmigración (Ministry of Employment and Immigration) (www.mtin.es) and the Ministerio de

Asuntos Exteriores y Cooperación (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation) (www.maec.es).

Central information offices:

Ministry of the InteriorC/ Rafael Calvo, 33Tel: 900 150 000.www.mir.es

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WORK AND RESIDENCE PERMITS

1. Community system: Citizens of a Member State of the European Union

The Community system applies to nationals of European Union Member States (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Rumania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom), nationals of other European States belonging to the European Economic Area (Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) and nationals of Switzerland.

The Community system is also applicable to the following family members of Spanish citizens and of nationals from the aforementioned countries, regardless of their nationality:

• Spouse, provided the couple is not legally separated.


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Ministry of Foreign Affairs and cooperationC/ Salvador, 3Tel: 91 379 96 00 / 9264 / 9564 / 9825.www.maec.es

Ministry for Employment and ImmigrationC/ Agustín de Bethencourt, 4Tel: 91 363 23 30.www.mtin.es

Ministry of JusticeC/ San Bernardo, 45Tel: 91 390 45 00.www.mju.es


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• Spouse, provided the couple is not legally separated.

• Children and spouse’s children under the age of twenty-one and dependent children and spouse’s dependent children over the age of twenty-one.

• Dependent descendants and spouse’s dependent descendants, except for descendants of students and their spouses.

Foreigners falling under the Community system are not required to obtain a work permit to work for themselves or others and are entitled to work under the same conditions as Spanish nationals.

Nevertheless, in order to reside in Spain, these foreigners must apply for entry in the Central Register of Foreigners within three months of arriving in the country. This is done through an appointment at the Foreigner Attention Office at the Plaza del Campillo del Mundo Nuevo, 3 (91 322 69 19 / 6835 / 6876). A valid passport or national identity document must be submitted with the application.

Once the form has been submitted and the corresponding fee paid, the applicant will be provided with a registration certificate showing his/her name, nationality, address, date of registration and foreign resident identification number (NIE).

If the family members of an EU national are from non-EU countries, they must submit a valid passport with the requisite entry visa obtained from a diplomatic mission or consulate in Spain or their country of origin or residence, without prejudice to applicable international agreements in this respect. Individuals holding a valid residence card as a family member of a European Union citizen will be exempt.

Family members of a European Union citizen will be exempt from this visa requirement.


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Nevertheless, family members of a non-EU citizen that are nationals of a non-EU country are required to obtain a Family Member of European Union Citizen Residence Card by submitting an application to the Foreigner Attention Office at the Calle General Pardiñas, 30, Madrid (91 322 68 24 / 26) with the following documents:

• Valid passport.• Documentation attesting to a qualifying registered family bond, marriage or civil union. • Certificate of registration of the community relative.• Documentation attesting to dependency on the community relative.• 3 passport-size photographs.

2. General system: Non-EU nationals

Foreigners to whom the Community system does not apply must obtain a permit to work and reside in Spain and a special visa to work. Employers must secure authorisation from the Ministry of Employment before hiring non-EU foreigners. Nevertheless, the absence of a work permit will not invalidate the parts of the employment contract regarding the worker’s rights, nor will it preclude the worker from receiving any benefits to which he or she is entitled.

Puerta de Alcalá and Cibeles


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Types of permits, according to type of employment and duration:

Type of permitResidence and work (employee) permit.

CaseOrdinary work permit for foreigners that hold a stable position as an employee in Spain.

DurationOne year, renewable for two years.

Type of permitResidence and work (self-employed) permit.

CaseOrdinary work permit for foreigners working for themselves in a stable manner in Spain.

DurationOne year, renewable for two year-periods.

Type of permitCross-border workers.

CaseWork permit (employee or self-employed) for workers residing in a border area of a neighbouring country to which they return on a daily basis. Valid for that territorial area only.

DurationMaximum of 5 years, renewable upon expiry.


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Type of permitTemporary work permits.

CaseThis permit covers the following activities: seasonal work, works and services, executive management, professional athletes, artists, and training and internships.

DurationLength of the contract, maximum 1 year (except temporary contracts); non-renewable.

Type of permitTransnational travelling.

CasePermit for foreigners employed with companies incorporated in a non-EU/non-EEA country and having temporarily travelled to Spain for: • Execution of a contract between a foreign company and a Spanish company receiving services. • Temporary movement of workers between companies in the same group (including training).• Temporary movement of highly-qualified workers for the supervision or consulting of works or services carried out abroad by Spanish companies.

DurationMaximum one year; renewable for a maximum of one year.


FOREIGN RESIDENT IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (NIE)

The foreign resident identification number (NIE) is a personal, unique and exclusive number that identifies foreigners residing in Spain, foreigners that have been subject to an administrative record in accordance with applicable legislation, and those that, due to their economic, professional or social interest, have a tie with Spain. The NIE must appear on all documents issued or processed.

The number is initially assigned by the General Directorate of Police. In the event the applicant is outside Spain at the time, the NIE application must be processed through the Spanish consulate in the country of origin.

In addition to the official application form, applicants must also submit documents showing the grounds for requesting a foreign resident identification number.

RESIDENCE CARD

The residence card evidences that the cardholder is a legal resident in Spain, identifies the individual, and reflects the permit and/or recognition of the right to remain in Spain for over three months.

Once the applicant has been granted authorisation to stay in Spain and the legally established fees have been paid, the residence card is issued by the General Directorate of Police at police headquarters and foreigner attention offices.

The residence card will be valid for the same period as the authorisation or the recognition of the right to remain in Spain. Accordingly, the cardholder must be aware of the expiry date in order to apply for renewal.

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During the appropriate time period (generally sixty days before expiry). Nevertheless, renewal may be requested in the three months subsequent to expiry, without prejudice to any pertinent administrative sanctions.

REUNIFICATION OF FAMILIES

Foreigners residing in Spain may gain residence for their family members (spouse, children, and descendants, subject to certain specifications) by personally submitting an application and supporting documentation to the corresponding agency.

Once a temporary residence permit has been authorised on grounds of family reunification, the subject family member must personally apply for a visa at the diplomatic mission or consular office in whose jurisdiction he/she resides.

Once the visa has been granted, the applicant must enter Spanish territory within the period of validity of the visa, which under no circumstances may exceed three months.

Within one month from entry, the family member must personally apply for the residence card.

STUDENTS

Foreigners wishing to study, perform unpaid research or undergo unpaid training must hold the corresponding student visa.

Student visas authorise short-term stays in Spain for the same period of time as the course in which the applicant is enrolled, or, where applicable, for as long as the research work is being carried out.

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Student on a campus

Student visas may be extended annually by proving that the applicant continues to meet the original requirements.

The official student visa application form and supporting documentation should be submitted to the Spanish diplomatic missions or consular offices in the country of origin or residence. Upon arriving in Spain, the individual must submit an application for the student card.

If the study period is longer than six months, the foreigner must apply for the corresponding foreign student card within one month of arriving in Spain.

Foreigners that have applied for a student visa or that are studying in Spain may apply for the corresponding short-term stay visa to allow their family members (spouse and children under the age of eighteen or subject to legal guardianship) to legally enter and stay in Spain for the period of the aforementioned studies or research work.


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SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS

The official application forms are free and available at the corresponding agency offices, on the websites of the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry for Employment and Immigration and the Ministry of Presidence (www.mir.es, www.mtin.es, www.map.es).

Application forms must be submitted in person at the corresponding administrative offices: foreigner attention offices, police headquarters, departments of employment and social affairs.

Appointments for requesting an initial work (employee) and residence permit and for renewing work and residence permits may be requested on the Ministry of Presidence website or by calling the application status hotline (902 022 222).

LARGE COMPANIES UNIT

The Secretariat of State for Immigration and Emigration Resolution 5588 of February 28th 2007, published in the Spanish Official State Gazette of March 16th, establishes the procedure for granting residency and work permits for non-EU foreigners in special cases.

Specifically, this procedure is applicable to foreigners who will perform executive level or highly-qualified work for companies meeting one of the following conditions:

• A workforce of over 1,000 employees, duly registered with the Social Security system.• An investment volume in Spain of over 200 million Euro.• An investment of over 20 million Euro, exclusively from funds from abroad.• Any other cases similar to those stated above that are authorised by the Secretary of State on grounds of exceptional economic, social or employment interest.


This procedure is applicable both to the worker and to his/her family members, namely spouse, children under the age of 18 and justifiably dependent descendants.

Applications must be submitted to the Large Companies Unit of the General Directorate of Immigration at the Plaza de la Remonta nº 12, 3rd floor, 28071 Madrid, Tel. 91 363 32 75/3267, Fax 91 363 90 58.

Email: [email protected] information: http://extranjeros.mtin.es/es/UnidadGrandesEmpresas/

Within one month of receiving the application and required supporting documentation, the General Directorate of Immigration will issue a resolution, which will be communicated to the applicant. If favourable, the applicant may process the visa at the corresponding diplomatic mission or Spanish consulate (usually received within 10 days).

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Kio towers



To register as a resident in Madrid, applicants must submit a registration form and documentation evidencing both their identity (in the case of foreigners: photocopy of a residency card or valid passport) and the right to use a particular residence (valid property deed, sales contract or rental contract, contract or recent utilities bill issued by a landline telephone, water, electricity or gas supply company). If other individuals are already registered at a given address, at least one of them (of legal age) must authorise the registration of the applicant, attaching a photocopy of their identity document.

Non-community foreigners without a permanent residence permit must renew their registration every two years.

The forms and documentation to be submitted may vary according to whether the applicant was already registered in another municipality or is notifying of a change of address, registration due to birth, or a modification of information. Further information on supporting documentation required and all necessary forms is available on the Madrid City Council website (www.madrid.es).The application is free and can be carried out as follows:• Online: www.madrid.es • By telephone: 010 (91 529 8210. from outside Madrid).• In person: at any of the 21 municipal district offices). An appointment is required for these offices and can be obtained by calling 010 or visiting either www.madrid.es or any residents’ services office. Original documents must be submitted when applying in person.• By post: the form can be downloaded from the Internet or mailed to an address for subsequent completion and submission by post.

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USEFUL LINKS AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Offices for foreigners in Madrid ( Ministry of the Interior) http://www.mir.es/SGACAVT/extranje/directorio.html

• Application for European Union Citizen Family Card Plaza del Campillo del Mundo Nuevo nº 3Tel.: +34 902 56 57 01. BY APPOINTMENT Tel.: +34 91 539 53 39. Family members Tel.: +34 915 39 15 91. Students (Opening hours: from Monday to Thursday 9.00 to 17.00hrs and Fridays 9.00 to 14.00hrs)

• Certificates for international adoptions

C/ General Pardiñas, 90Tel.: +34 91 322 69 21. (Opening hours: from Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 14.00hrs.

• Application for certificate of registration of European Union citizens; registration and renewal applications of students and their families

C/ Padre Piquer, 18Tel.: +34 902 56 57 01. BY APPOINTMENT. (Opening hours: from Monday to Friday from 8.30 to 13.00hrs).

• Permanent residence and renewal, non-profit initial residence, extensions of stay, government reports for adoption of children from abroad

C/ Luisa Fernanda, 18 Tel.: +34 91 322 85 67/68.(Opening hours: from Monday to Thursday from 9.00 to 17.30hrs and Fridays from 9.00 to 14.00hrs.).

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37

• Residence and non-residence certificates; assignment of NIE (foreign resident’s ID card); Issuing of EU, student and general scheme cards – Large Companies Unit – prior appointment; information on applications being processed on EU family members and students (before October 4th 2010)

C/ San Felipe, 7-9Tel.: +34 91 570 18 24. (Opening hours: from Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 14.00hrs)

• Authorisation of temporary and permanent residence; copies; changes of address; return authorisation; registration cards; travel certificates; identity cards; prints; renewal of residence permits of minors not under guardianship, and renewal of family members

Avenida de los Poblados s/n(Opening hours: from Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 19.00hrs and 16.00 to 19.00hrs).

Foreign residents‘ units of the Government’s Madrid Office (Ministry of Territorial Policy and Public Administration).

http://www.mpt.es/ministerio/delegaciones_gobierno/delegaciones/madrid/extranjeria.html

Internet appointments through the Ministry of the Presidency: https://sedempr.gob.es/info/es/procedimientos/extranjeria/cita_previa_extranjeria.html

• Foreign Residents’ Unit in Calle Serrano.C/ Serrano, 69 (Rubén Darío and Nuñez de Balboa metro stations on line 5) 28006 - MADRID. Telephone: +34 91 272 94 00.Opening hours: from Monday to Friday, from 9.00 to 14.00hrs.


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APPLICATION PROCEDURES• Initial work applications (business owner or employer): by appointment or through the CEIM (Madrid Business Confederation) or professional associations of lawyers, labour relations and social security law consultants and administrative agents. No prior appointment necessary for domestic employees.

• Submission of applications for renewals of work and residence permits: by appointment.• Processing of applications for work permit renewals to be submitted in any public registry, in those municipalities with a single counter service agreement or through a post office. • Residence applications for exceptional circumstances based on employment or potential employment, prior residence or family ties: by appointment. • Processing of other work permits: quota, fixed term, transnational services, changes from residence to residence and work, self-employed/employed compatibility, exceptions to work authorisation.• Attendance in person without prior appointment for registration of work authorisation documentation, except renewals.

• Foreign Residents’ Unit in the Calle García de ParedesC/ García de Paredes, 65 (Gregorio Marañón metro station - lines 7 and 10) 28010 - MADRID. Telephone: +34 91 272 91 71.Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 9.00 to 14.00.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES• Initial residence of minors: by appointment. • Initial residence and renewals for exceptional circumstances on: international protection (with passport) and humanitarian grounds. • Family reunification residence: by appointment.• Lodging appeals for reconsideration and revocation of expulsions. • Initial work permit applications, by appointment.


• Foreign Residents’ Unit in the Calle Manuel LunaC/ Manuel Luna, 29 (Estrecho metro station on line 1)28020 - MADRID.Opening hours: from Mondays to Fridays, from 9.00 to 14.00hrs

• APPLICATION PROCEDURES • No prior appointment necessary for information on non-workresidence permits, return authorisations, issuing of fee forms for theseprocedures, information on births or children over two years old inSpain.• Issuing of certificates from the Foreign Residents’ Central Office(Registro Central de Extranjeros) to Romanian and Bulgarian citizens,by appointment calling +34 902 56 57 01.• Return authorisations, by appointment.• Family reunification, by appointment.• Residence permits for exceptional circumstances based onemployment or potential employment, prior residence or family ties, byappointment.• Adoption of foreign minors’ reports.• Reports for minors' visas for holidays and illness.

• Foreign Residents’ Unit in the Calle San Faustino, 23C/ San Faustino, 23 esquina a C/ Sebastian Francisco, 2 (Canillejas metro station - line 5) 28022 - MADRID. Opening hours: from Monday to Friday, from 9.00 to 14.00.

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3


LIVING IN MADRID


Hotels and rates

Categories

Residential areas

Where to !nd a house

How to !nd domestic help

Renting

Contracts

Minimum content of a written contract

Deposits

Rent

Buying a property

Registration or name changes with utility

companies: water, electricity, gas, telephone


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HOTELS AND RATES


Madrid offers visitors a wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to cosy family-run hostels and serviced extended-stay hotel suites.

After a slow start to the new millennium, hotel activity in Madrid has boomed in recent years. 2009 was a record year, with 13.7 million overnight stays and almost 7.2 million guests.

To handle this influx, Madrid offers an increasingly large number of hotel rooms. In late 2009, over 76,386 beds were available in more than 901 establishments employing a total of 12,089 workers. Four- and five-star hotels account for over 60% of the total number of beds.

Lists of hotels are available at tour operators and Spanish tourist offices.

CATEGORIES

A hotel’s category is indicated by a number of stars, based on a standardised international classification establishing the minimum services required for each number of stars.

For guidance, average hotel rates for each category are shown below. For longer stays, hotels are often willing to negotiate the price of the room and the services included.

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Hotels andAparthotels

Hotels *****

Hotels ****

Hotels ***

Hotels **

Aparthotels

Aparthotels

Aparthotels

Aparthotels

Double Room

Double Room

Double Room

Double Room

Single

Double

Triple

Suite

Studio

270€ $355

180€ $237

120€ $158

90€ $118

90€ $118

75€ $99

75€ $99

95€ $125

Studio

Studio

Rooms Observations Prices

Source: Tourist Board Only accommodation , 8% VAT no included. Exchange Rate: March 9th 2007.

These prices have been affected by the situation of the past two years, falling around 10.6%, but are now starting to show signs of recovery.

By comparison, in the summer of 2010, while the average price of accommodation in Madrid was €75, it was €89 in Rome, €100 in Shanghai and Dubai, €107 in Barcelona, €111 in Paris, €143 in Tokyo, €146 in London and €195 in New York.

3. Living in Madrid


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WHERE TO FIND A HOUSE

Residential areas

Madrid has neighbourhoods to suit all tastes and needs, from quiet residential areas with wide avenues to bustling central areas. Some of these areas are listed below:

• Chamberí – Almagro: enclosed by the Santa Engracia, José Abascal, La Castellana and Génova streets, this neighbourhood boasts majestic residences from the 19th and 20th centuries alongside modern buildings with spacious flats.

• Barrio de Salamanca or Madrid de los Borbones: This neighbourhood was built and developed under commission of the Bourbon dynasty. King Charles III planned and reorganised this part of Madrid (El Retiro and the Paseo del Prado, with its large squares, fountains and monumental buildings). This area is home to well-known streets such as Alcalá, Serrano, Goya, Lagasca, Velázquez, Paseo de la Castellana, and Paseo del Prado. It is also where the main museums and the city’s most chic, glamorous and desirable area, known as the Golden Mile (Milla de Oro) are located.

• Chamartín: located in the north of the city, this residential area offers large open spaces and is well-connected to both the city centre and Azca, Madrid’s economic and financial centre. The residential complexes of El Viso and Rosales, which date back to 1930 and feature modern apartment buildings and houses with private gardens, are situated behind Chamartín’s broad avenues.

The average price of a hotel room in Madrid is lower than other major cities in Spain, such as La Coruña, Valencia, Malaga, Palma, Barcelona and Santander.

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• Arturo Soria – Conde Orgaz: the Arturo Soria street runs some 5.8 km through the east of Madrid. The almost north-south orientation defines a residential area characterised by its “Linear City” concept. Specifically, the city planning on the stretch between the Alcalá street and El Pinar de Chamartín is harmonious and pleasant and features small open blocks with three- and four-storey buildings, green areas, communal gardens and swimming pools. Its elevation (it is one of the highest areas in Madrid), its abundant and luxuriant plant life and its woodland keep the levels of pollution down. The city’s largest park, the Juan Carlos I Park, which features a golf course, a navigable stream, a lake, and wide open spaces with olive groves and woodlands, is nearby.

• Puerta de Hierro – Mirasierra: Undoubtedly one of the most exclusive sections of Madrid, Puerta de Hierro and its surrounding area are located in the northeast of the city. Numerous services and installations provide an excellent quality of life for the residents of this quiet, green expanse of land. The La Coruña motorway, and therefore outlying towns such as Pozuelo, Majadahonda and Las Rozas, are easily accessible from Puerta

de Hierro.

Chamartín Station

3. Living in Madrid


Together with the towns along the N-1 motorway, the municipalities lining the La Coruña motorway (A-6) still constitute the city's most exclusive suburban area. This area enjoys prestige not just in Spain but also in the rest of Europe, thanks to its services, the quality of its buildings and the large number of green spaces. Several international schools are also located in this area. The town of Pozuelo de Alarcón is one of the most sought-after residential communities, offering a complete range of facilities and services, as is the town of Majadahonda, a little further down the road, where prices are more affordable due to the greater distance from Madrid. The route ends in the historical town of Las Rozas, which meets the Torrelodones border to the north, El Monte

del Pardo (part of the Madrid municipal area) to the east, Majadahonda to the south, and Villanueva del Pardillo and Galapagar to the west.

• La Moraleja: located in the northeast of the city, the area is similar to Mirasierra and La Piovera, as a spacious and tranquil oasis of luxury houses with private gardens. Buying and renting in this area is extremely costly and its residents include some of Madrid’s wealthiest and most famous. Some of the city’s best private schools and sports clubs are located in this area.

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HOW TO FIND DOMESTIC HELP

Many Spanish homes employ people to help with domestic tasks or to look after children. Salaries for these workers are not as high as in other European countries.

Domestic workers may be permanent staff (providing services for one family for 80 or more hours a month) or intermittent (providing services to one or more families on a part-time or sporadic basis). Many people prefer the latter option and pay by the hour (9 euros – 10 euros/hour).

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Although domestic help is most often obtained through recommendations, certain agencies select personnel to provide the help that best meets customers’ needs. These agencies include: www.atochahogar.comwww.liberassistance.comwww.AsistHogar.com

3. Living in Madrid

Urban rentals are governed by the Urban Lease Law 29 of 24 November 1994 (LAU), which also covers the lease of furniture, storage rooms, parking garage spaces and other outbuildings.


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CONTRACTS

As the Spanish law does not require a written lease contract, rental agreements may be oral. In general, it is advisable to write out a document (rental or lease contract) reflecting the statutory guarantees and clauses applicable to both parties.

The following points should be taken into account when drafting a contract: firstly, although contracts can be written on any type of paper, official forms can be purchased from tobacconists. This form consists of two copies, one for the landlord and one for the tenant, it offers the advantage of showing all essential data (personal data of the landlord and the tenant, identification of the house or flat, the lease period, price, etc.). The cost of these forms depends on the rental price and is nominal (generally between 1 euro and 3 euros).

MINIMUM CONTENT OF A WRITTEN CONTRACT

Written contracts must contain at least the following information:

• Identity of the contracting parties: lessor and lessee. • Identification of the leased property: city, street, number, flat, etc.

Renting

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DEPOSITS

Deposits are required by law. The amount is usually the same as one month’s rent, although the law does not set a fixed amount.

The amount of the deposit cannot be increased in the first five years. After this time, if the contract is extended, the deposit may be increased. When the contract period elapses, and once the keys have been returned to the landlord, the landlord must return the deposit or the remaining balance within one month. Conflicts regarding deposits are quite common between landlords and tenants.

RENT

The rental price is agreed between the two parties. Rent is normally paid seven days before the end of each month. Landlords can not ask for more than one month’s rent in advance. Payments are made in accordance with the provisions of the particular contract.

Landlords are required to provide tenants with written proof of payment, unless the payment is evidenced in another way (such as a bank transfer). Tenants are advised to keep these receipts and proof of payment.

During the first five years of a contract, rent increases in line with the annual rise in the consumer price index (CPI). Subsequently, rent may be increased as agreed by both parties in a new contract.

• Indication of whether or not the property is furnished. If furnished, an inventory must be included. • Lease period. • Initial rent. • Other clauses agreed to by the parties, such as which party is responsible for paying utility bills or any prohibitions on sub-leasing.

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ExpensesExpenses for the appropriate upkeep of the property, any services (for example, swimming pools, security service), and taxes (property tax) that cannot be individually measured and attributed to the tenant and that correspond to the leased property are paid for by the landlord. Tenants may be required to pay these expenses if expressly agreed in the rental contract.

Tenants are required to pay for water, gas, electricity and telephone services, unless otherwise agreed upon in the contract.

Contract duration

The duration of the lease is agreed upon by the parties (from a few months to one to five years). In order to safeguard the rights of tenants, the Urban Lease Law establishes that contracts for less than five years can be extended annually for up to a total period of five years. As this extension is automatic, tenants wishing to remain in a property are not required to inform the landlord.

However, tenants wishing to vacate a property upon expiry of the agreed period are required to inform the landlord that the automatic extension should not be applied, at least 30 days before the end of the contract or any of its extensions.

After five years, owners may rescind contracts provided they give at least 30 days’ notice to the tenant. Otherwise the contract will be automatically renewed for three years, unless the tenant refuses the extension.

If the contract does not reflect the lease period or there is no way of proving the duration, the contract is understood to be for one year. In this case the landlord is still required to extend the contract on a year-by-year basis for a maximum period of five years.

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InventoryTenants are advised to sign an inventory of the property (furniture, bathroom fittings, etc.) stating the condition of each item.

This document should be carefully reviewed, given that each item noted should appear on the final inventory when the tenant vacates the property. The deposit will be reduced for any items not in the same state as indicated on the original inventory.

Sale of the propertyIf the landlord decides to sell the property during the lease period (provided that it is after the first five years), the tenant has the right of first refusal, i.e., he/she will have preference over other buyers.

The owner must first offer the property to the tenant, who must reply within 30 days. If the landlord does not make the offer, or the property is sold for a price lower than that offered by the tenant, the tenant has one month to petition for the sale to be nullified, after which he/she may buy the property at the price declared in the deeds.

Repairs

Landlords are responsible for all repairs required to ensure that the property remains in suitable living conditions. However, landlords are not responsible for repairing damages caused by tenants. Tenants are liable for damages due to wear and tear on the property. Tenants should make any urgent repairs necessary to avoid even greater damage to the property, having previously informed the landlord. The landlord will reimburse the tenant for such expenses.

Landlords should provide tenants with three months’ notice of any maintenance work to be carried out that may affect the health, hygiene or comfort of the tenant. In this case the tenant is entitled to either suspend the lease without future notice or to obtain a reduction in rent proportional to the number of rooms that cannot be used as a result of the work.

3. Living in Madrid

Buying a property


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SubleasingThe tenant may sublease part of the property to a third party for the same period as the contract, provided that the landlord has given written consent.

End of the contractLandlords may rescind contracts when the tenants:• Have failed to pay rent or the deposit.• Lease the property to a third party without consent.• Deliberately cause damage to the property.• Carry out repairs without the permission of the landlord.• Disturb neighbours.

Tenants may rescind the contract when the landlord:• Does not carry out preservation and maintenance work to keep the property in suitable living conditions.• Interferes in the personal life of the tenant.

Before deciding to buy a property in Spain it is important to understand the legal process and the outlay of funds that such a purchase entails.

Although it is not necessary to contract a lawyer when acquiring a property, prospective buyers often find it helpful to contract an administrative agent (gestor) to aid in the process.

The steps to be taken to buy a property are as follows:

Obtain a NIE (foreign resident identification number)See Chapter 2

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Mortgage application

If the property to be purchased is a previously-owned home and all conditions have been agreed with the seller, a private contract is normally signed and 10% of the total price of the property is paid as a deposit. Unless the buyer has a good command of the Spanish language, the contract should be translated into his or her native language. The sale will be completed before a notary, the property will be registered to the buyer, and a new deed will be written containing the details of the transaction (names of the buyer and seller, purchase price, etc.).

Paying for the property

Normally mortgages are granted for 70% or 80% of the value of the property, and for a period of 10 to 30 years.

The application procedure is very similar to that in other countries: applicants must be able to show that they have sufficient income to meet mortgage payments. The amount granted depends directly on the applicant’s debt capacity and on the appraised value of the property to be bought.

The following documentation is required to evidence debt capacity:• P60: list of income and deductions for the past year.• Latest three payslips.• Previous year’s income (if self-employed).• Previous year’s withholdings paid (if self-employed).• Bank references (useful but not essential).• Life insurance covering the amount to be financed and homeowner’s insurance covering damages to the property.

Open a bank accountAlthough a Spanish bank account is not essential to purchase a property, it is advisable to do so. Accounts can be opened at many national and regional banks (see Chapter 4 for further information).

LIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK 3. Living in Madrid

Registration or name changes with utility

companies: water, electricity, gas, telephone

Utilities may be contracted by calling the customer service department of each utility company or in person at the company’s offices.

The following documents are required to contract utilities or to change the name of the customer for new properties:

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Tax

All taxes and expenses payable on the purchase of a home amount to approximately 10% of the total purchase value.

• Property transfer tax amounts to 7%, for previously-owned properties.• VAT, for new properties, amounts to 8%.• Notary fees are approximately 3%.

Any lawyer or administrative agent contracted will be able to perform all necessary procedures to ensure that the property in question actually belongs to the vendor and is free of encumbrances and other legal limitations. Once these details have been satisfactorily verified and the deposit has been paid in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract, all that remains is to sign the deeds before a notary.

Notaries ensure the legality of all publicly-signed documents. The notary represents both the buyer and the seller. Notary fees are officially established and must be paid upon signature of the deeds. The notary keeps the original document, while the buyer receives the first legal copy, signed and stamped by the notary. Until the original deed has been duly registered, the first legal copy is the only proof of ownership.


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- NIE, name and surname(s).- Copy of the property deed.- Certificate of fitness for habitation or first occupancy licence. - Installation completion certificate.- A bank account number for payments.

If the property is previously-owned and if, at the date of sale, all utilities are connected and the seller is up to date with payments, the buyer only needs to change the name on the utility contracts and provide bank details for direct debit. Some companies do not charge for this change.

In some cases the buyer need only inform the company of his or her bank details, maintaining the utilities in the name of the previous owner in order to avoid any costs incurred in a name change.

In any event, the seller should leave no outstanding debts with the utility companies. Where such debts exist, the buyer has two options:- Pay the debts and change the bank details only.- Establish a new contract in the new owner’s name.

The best bet is to compare the amount of the outstanding debt with the cost of a new contract or name change, and act accordingly. Similarly, both for a name change and new contracts, installations must successfully pass the required periodic tests. If this is not the case, the installation must be checked by an authorised service provider prior to contracting the utility. This technician will make any necessary adjustments to bring the installations up to code and issue a certificate of verification.

To terminate a utility contract, homeowners need only to inform the pertinent company by calling its customer service line 24 or 48 hours in advance.



4FINANCIAL SYSTEM AND TAXES

Banks and savings banks

Opening a bank account in Spain

Cheques

Credit and debit cards

Direct debit

Bank transfers

Currency

Banking security tips

Taxes

State taxes

Local taxes


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Banks and savings banks

There is no difference between banks and savings banks as far as customer services are concerned. Both offer the same type of services and are subject to similar legislation. The only differences are in the management and corporate structure: while banks are private entities (companies) with shareholders, savings banks are entities with a unique legal status. They are private foundations with a social welfare mission and they act in accordance with market criteria, although most of their profits are reinvested in their social work. Depositors, customers, town councils and local governments participate in the management and administrative governing bodies of these foundations. Customer services provided by both banks and savings banks are generally good.

The main banks and savings banks in Spain are as follows (all have branches in Madrid):

Santander Central Hispano www.gruposantander.com Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria www.bbva.es Caixa d´Estalvis i Pensions de Barcelona “la Caixa” www.lacaixa.es Caja de Ahorros de Madrid www.cajamadrid.es Banco Popular Español www.bancopopular.esBanesto www.banesto.esBanco Sabadell www.bancsabadell.esCatalunya caixa www.caixacatalunya.esCaja de Ahorros del Mediterráneo www.cam.es Bankinter www.bankinter.es

The following international banks have offices in Madrid:

Deutsche Bank–España www.grupo.deutsche-bank.esLloyds España: www.lloydsbank.es

4. Financial system and taxes

OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT IN SPAIN

Potential customers wishing to open a bank account in Spain must demonstrate resident or non-resident status, regardless of their nationality.

Non-residents must request a non-resident certificate from the Foreigner’s Office in Madrid (appointments: 902 565 701). With this certificate and a passport, an account can be opened in any bank. The account will be operational immediately and customers can access their deposited funds.

Prospective customers can also go directly to a bank with their passport and ask to open a bank account, authorising the bank to request the non-resident certificate. The account will be opened immediately but not operational until the certificate is received, and all funds will be blocked until that time.

There is no minimum amount for opening an account in euros; for other currencies the minimum amount depends on the currency. Banks usually charge for opening and maintaining accounts.


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Barclays: www.barclays.esHalifax Bank of Scotland: www.halifax.esCitibank: www.Citibank.esBank of America: www.bankamerica.comCredit Suisse: www.credit-suisse.esJP Morgan Chase: www.chase.comBanco do Brasil: www.bb.com.brArab Bank: www.arabbank.comBNP Paribas: www.bnpparibas.es


Bank hours are generally Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 14:00 hrs. Some banks also open on Saturday mornings, usually from 09:00 to 13:00 hrs. Savings banks are normally also open on Thursday afternoons. In addition to these opening hours, some banks are extending their opening hours, so you should consult their websites before going to the offices.

Almost all bank entities offer online banking for performing transactions 24 hours a day.


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CHEQUES

Cheques are rarely used in Spain. Cash or cards are used for day-to-day transactions.

CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS

As many Spanish and foreign banks and savings banks have offices in Madrid, there are numerous cash machines. In addition, the overwhelming majority of shops and supermarkets accept credit and debit card payments.

A commission is charged for withdrawing money from a machine that does not belong to the bank in which the account is held. The machine informs customers of the fee to be charged before carrying out the transaction and customers may cancel the operation at any time.



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DIRECT DEBITDirect debit is the usual payment method for electricity, telephone, gas, school, insurance bills and most other monthly or annual bills.

Salaries can also be transferred directly to employees’ bank accounts by providing employers with the 20-digit account code.

BANK TRANSFERS

Certain payments, such as magazine or newspaper subscriptions, are generally settled through bank transfers. Customers need only provide the 20-digit code of the account to which funds are to be transferred.

CURRENCY

The currency used in Spain is the euro. Since January 1st 2002 the euro has been the single currency for almost all Member States of the European Union.

Euro notes are in €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500 denominations. There are 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, €1 and €2 coins.

Customers are advised to exchange foreign currency at banks and savings banks rather than at exchange offices, as these latter agencies charge high commissions or offer less favourable exchange rates than banks. Nevertheless, in an emergency (outside banking hours), some exchange offices are open until late. The majority of these agencies are located in the area around the Puerta del Sol, the Gran Vía and the Plaza de

España.



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BANKING SECURITY TIPS

Stolen cheques or credit cards should be reported to the issuing bank immediately, either by telephone, in person or online. The theft should then be reported to the police.

Under no circumstances will any bank contact customers to ask for PIN numbers or other such information. A common case of this type of crime is the one called phishing (they request by mail your login to your online bank account or redirect you to a fake page of your bank). Do not reveal your bank details or passwords to strangers via e-mail or telephone.


The Euro is the currency of Spain

The Spanish tax system comprises three types of duties: taxes, fees and special contributions. Fees and special contributions are required as payment for services or benefits from public works or services.

Taxes in Spain are levied on state, autonomous community and local level.

This chapter provides an overview of the Spanish taxation system and focuses on the main national and local taxes. The following resources are available for further information:.

• Local taxes:Madrid City Council Taxpayer Services (Oficina de Atención Integral al

Contribuyente del Ayuntamiento de Madrid): C/ Alcalá, 45. (Metro: Banco de España). Tel.: 010 (from outside Madrid: 91 529 82 10). www.munimadrid.es• Autonomous community taxes:General Directorate of Taxation – Department of Taxation of the Community of Madrid (Dirección General de Tributos- Consejería de

Hacienda de la Comunidad de Madrid) Pº del General Martínez Campos, 30.Metro: Iglesia, Rubén Darío, Gregorio Marañón)Tel.: 91 580 94 11 (switchboard)Tel.: 901 505 060 (information)• National taxes:Tax Authorities (Agencia Tributaria): www.aeat.esMinistry of Economy and Taxation (Ministerio de Economía y Hacienda): www.meh.es

Taxes


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• “Guía de negocios en España (Business Guide to Spain)”. Secretariat of State for Tourism and Commerce (Secretaría de Estado de Turismo y

Comercio).

Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce (Ministerio de Industria,

Turismo y Comercio) www.investinspain.org

Types of taxes

1 STATE TAXES

- Personal income taxPersonal income tax is levied on a taxpayer’s total income, including income from foreign entities in certain circumstances.

Taxpayers are considered residents in Spain for tax purposes when they spend more than 183 days of the year in the country or when the core or base of their business or professional activities or economic interests are in Spain, directly or indirectly, for over one year.

Personal income tax is levied on both a general scale and an autonomous community scale. The maximum marginal combined state and Madrid personal income tax rate is 42.90%.

- Non-resident income taxSince 2004, individuals that evidence primary residence in another Member State of the European Union and whose income from work or professional activities in Spain accounts for at least 75% of their global income may opt to pay tax as if they were residents for tax purposes in Spain.

The system implemented in 2004 is favourable to foreigners that have moved to Spain for employment reasons. Those foreigners who obtain residence for tax purposes in Spain and meet certain requirements are allowed to pay tax as non-residents. The tax rate applicable to non-residents is generally 25%.



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Spain is also party to double taxation treaties with almost every country in the world. Complete information on these double taxation treaties is available on the Ministry of Economy and Treasury website: www.meh.es/portal/normativa+y+doctrina/normativa/CDI/CDI_alfa.htm

- Value added tax (VAT)The general VAT rate for the majority of goods and services is 18%, although there is a reduced VAT rate of 8% and a super-reduced rate of 4% for certain cases. In accordance with the European model, certain transactions are exempt of VAT.

2 LOCAL TAXES- Property taxProperty tax is levied annually on real-estate assets owned or rights in rem thereto, on the basis of the registered value of the property.

- Business activity taxThis tax is levied on business activities carried out in a town or city. The amount payable is calculated on the basis of various factors, including type of activity, size of the premises, net income, etc. Individuals, taxpayers and entities without legal status whose net revenue for the preceding year is under 1 million euros are exempt from this tax.

- Motor vehicle taxOwners of officially registered motor vehicles suitable for use on public roads are liable for this tax.

- Tax on constructions, installations and worksThis tax is levied on any construction, installation or building work that require a planning or building licence.



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- Capital gains tax (urban land)This tax is levied on capital gains on the sale of urban land or other such rights. The amount payable is calculated on the basis of various factors. The maximum tax rate is 30%.


5


COMMUNICATIONS

Telephone

Telephone pre!xes

Pre-paid calling cards

Post-paid calling cards

Landline telephones

Mobile telephones

Internet Access

Media

Press

Television

Radio

Postal services

TELEPHONE PREFIXES

+34 / 0034: international prefix for calling Spain.

91: indicates that the number is within the Community of Madrid.

900: freephone number.

901: The cost of calls made to numbers with this prefix is shared between the caller and the owner of the number, without exceeding €0.04 per minute.

902: The entire cost of calls to this number is billed to the caller. The cost is less than that of a national call, but more expensive than a local call. Banks and booking lines for trains, aeroplanes, shows, etc. use these numbers.

904: this prefix allows you to receive calls regardless of national or international location. The person making the call will always pay for the provincial call and the owner of the line pays the difference.

905: this prefix is for voting online and allows you to count the number of calls made in connection with business surveys, polls, etc.

907: Is the prefix exclusive for Internet, and it is intended for leisure and entertainment professional services and adult content. You can only access these numbers through the basic telephone network, not via broadband or cable.

800: Four types: - 800: free for the user- 803: adult content (over 18)


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Telephone

5. Communications

- 806: leisure and entertainment services- 807: professional services (lawyers, technical services, medical services, etc.).

The cost of calling any of these numbers (803, 806 and 807) can reach 3.45 euros per minute if they are made from a mobile. The maximum duration of these calls, as required by the Code of Conduct for the provision of premium rate services, is 30 minutes, and you must be informed at the beginning of the call of the cost conditions and if the service is prohibited to minors under 18. This prior information may not exceed 15 seconds.

In case users wish to make a complaint about a premium rate service (ie the value of your phone bill for calls to lines 803-806-807-907) they can:

1. In the first instance address the specialised department or customer service of their operator. Users can submit their claims by phone, online, by mail, or directly in the business offices of the operator. If within one month,you have not received a reply from the operator or the answer does not satisfy you, you may lodge a complaint at the:

2. Consumer Arbitration Boards. (http://www.consumo-inc.es/)

3. Secretary of State for Telecommunications and Information Society (SETSI). The complaints addressed to the Secretary of State for Telecommunications and Information Society may be: • Given to the State Secretariat itself, C/ Capitán Haya 41, 28071, Madrid. • In the records of any administrative body that belongs to the Central Government (eg the Government Delegations and Sub), to any Administration of the Autonomous Communities. • In the post offices.


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5. Communications

PRE-PAID CALLING CARDS

It is possible to make phone calls using prepaid cards that can be purchased in tobacconists, newsagents and other authorised outlets. These cards contain a chip that enables users to make direct phone calls up to the cost of the card. In general, users must first dial a free 900 number and enter the PIN shown on the card, after which a recording will indicate the available credit.

These cards may have expiry dates and possible connection charges, which vary from operator to operator, for calls made from mobile phones.

POST-PAID CALLING CARDS

There are several operators who have issued this type of post-payment card, where money is charged on phone bills contracted with customers, provided that the call is made from the country in which the operator is located. If the call is made from abroad, the call is charged against the bank account where the user is domiciled credit card or debit card. These operators are Telefonica (900 66 77 88), ATT (900 98 44 90) and Global One (900 18 05 03), with whom you need to contact to get the cards.

LANDLINE TELEPHONES

Although customers can currently chose from several telephone operators in Spain, a contract with Telefónica is required in order to set up a landline.

The procedure is simple and can be carried out over the phone or online.

• Citizens who have an electronic signature may also be able to submit their reports by electronic means through www.usuariosteleco.es website, under ‘Electronic filing'.


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5. Communications

MOBILE TELEPHONESThe most common mobile technology used in Spain is Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), which is the system predominantly used in Europe. Services are currently being migrated to Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), while General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) is also used for certain services. UMTS is incompatible with CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), the leading network in America and PDC (Personal Digital Communications), used in Japan.

Internet accessHome or office Internet connections are possible via modem or router (dial-up), Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), ADSL or cable.

Internet access rates vary greatly. Some of the main service providers in Spain are as follows:

Jazztel: www.jazztel.esONO: www.ono.esOrange: www.orange.esMovistar: www.movistar.esVodafone: www.vodafone.esYa.com: www.ya.comYoigo: www.yoigo.com


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5. Communications

PRESS

Madrid newsagents stock a wide variety of national press (news, financial and sports). Certain newsagents also carry newspapers in foreign languages.

The main Spanish national daily newspapers are:

The Madrid City Council operates a network of Public Access Internet Centres (CAPI) offering free, unrestricted, secure and reliable access to the Internet and new technologies. Further information is available at http://www.munimadrid.es/mar

Users can also access the Internet in Madrid's many cyber-cafes, bars that offer free connection with a food or beverage purchase, telephone service providers (establishments with computers and telephone booths) and low-cost Internet centres.

The VIP lounges at Barajas Airport and Atocha Railway Station also provide Wi-Fi Internet connections. Wi-Fi is becoming increasingly available throughout Madrid.

MediaA variety of national and international newspapers and magazines are available in Madrid. The city’s residents are kept abreast of events occurring both in Madrid and all over the world through a wide range of information services.

News:• El País (www.elpais.es)• El Mundo (www.elmundo.es)• ABC (www.abc.es)• La Razón (www.larazon.es)• La Vanguardia (www.lavanguardia.es)• El Correo (www.diario-elcorreo.es)• Público (www.publico.es• La Voz de Galicia (www.lavozdegalicia.es)• La Gaceta (www.intereconomia.com/la-gaceta)


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5. Communications

Finance:• Cinco Días (www.cincodias.es)• Expansión (www.expansiondirecto.com)• La Gaceta de los Negocios (www.negocios.com)• El Economista (www.eleconomista.es) Sports:• Marca (www.marca.com)• Diario AS (www.as.es)• El Mundo Deportivo (www.elmundodeportivo.es)• Sport (www.sport.es

In the busiest points of the city Free Press is delivered, such as the following papers with a daily circulation:

• Qué• 20 Minutos• Newspapers published by Jun

In many of the downtown kiosks and in some specialised selling points, international press can be purchased:

• USA TODAY www.usatoday.com• The Wall Street Journal (New York) www.wsj.com• The Washington Times (Washington D.C.) www.washtimes.com• Los Angeles Times (California) www.latimes.com• New York Times (New York) www.nytimes.com• Chicago Sun Times (Illinois) www.suntimes.com• Boston Globe (Massachusetts) www.boston.com/news/globe/• Chicago Tribune (Illinois) www.chicagotribune.com• Le Monde www.lemonde.fr• International Herald Tribune www.iht.com• The Times: www.the-times.co.uk• Financial Times: www.ft.com• The Economist: www.economist.com• Il Corriere della Sera: www.corriere.it• La Stampa: www.lastampa.it


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5. Communications

• Public channels: Televisión Española (TVE1) (www.rtve.es), Televisión Española (La2) (www.rtve.es), Telemadrid (www.telemadrid.es)

• Private channels: Telecinco (www.telecinco.es), Antena 3 (www.antena3tv.es), Cuatro (www.cuatro.com), La Sexta (www.lasexta.es)

• Local channels: A wide range of local channels can be received in Madrid.

Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT):

• Nationally this includes TVE 1, La 2, Antena 3, Telecinco, Cuatro, La Sexta, Veo TV and NET TV.

• On a regional level, the most popular channels are Onda 6, Telemadrid, La Otra and esmadridtv.

Several satellites positioned over Europe bring a wide range of channels in several languages to Spanish viewers.


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5. Communications

TELEVISION

Madrid has its own regional channel, which in addition to broadcasting national and international information, also informs viewers about events in Madrid.

Analogue television (until 2010):


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5. Communications

‘Torrespaña’

Postal services

Correos y Telégrafos is a publicly-owned company providing quality and efficient universal postal services at a reasonable price.

Correos is the Spanish postal sector leader in transporting non-urgent documents and goods. more than 4,600 million items per year, and has more than 10,000 points of access to their services: 2,349 multiservice offices, 99 units of special items, 1,813 and 7,497 distribution units for service in rural areas (customer service and or PAYG). Correos provides also document delivery service, packages, money, etc.

For further information: www.correos.esCustomer service telephone: 902 197 197.Stamp collector service telephone: 902 203 120.

RADIO

Radio programmes broadcast on two frequencies in Madrid: FM (Frequency Modulation) and AM (Amplitude Modulation).

It is also possible to tune in to broadcasts in English and other languages both by satellite and via the Internet. Satellite broadcasts include:


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5. Communications

• Deutsche Welle (FL1)• Deutsche Welle (FL2)• Deutsche Welle(Nat.)• Sky Radio• Swiss Radio Int.• Radio Sweden• Radio Eviva• RTL Radio

• BBC World Service• BBC Radio 1• BBC Radio 2• BBC Radio 3• BBC Radio 4• BBC Radio 5 Live• CNN Radio News


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5. Communications

Post

TRANSPORT


Road access

By train


Driving licenses

Changing foreign driving licenses

Road safety

Driving in Madrid

6


Madrid has a comprehensive network of public transport infrastructure. Madrid-Barajas International Airport is located just 12 kilometres from the city. No other European capital has an international airport so close to the city centre, which means increased comfort as well as less time and money spent travelling. Madrid’s airport is known for its easy access and its excellent connections.

The latest of Madrid Airport’s four terminals was inaugurated in February 2006 and increased the capacity of the airport to 70 million passengers per year and 120 flights per hour. This enlargement has made Madrid-Barajas one of the most important European hubs, especially as a platform for connections to South America.

Madrid-Barajas receives 3,200 national and international flights per week and is Europe’s most important connection with Latin America. In 2007, it received 51.2 million passengers, making it the world's tenth busiest airport in terms of passengers, while 483,284 aircraft landed or took off and 325,201 tonnes of cargo were processed through the airport.

Directions

By road: Madrid-Barajas is connected to Madrid’s main access roads and ring roads by the following routes:• From the A-2 (Madrid-Barcelona), exit no. 12.• From the A-1 (Madrid-Burgos), exit no. 17.• From the M-40 (Madrid ring road), exit no. 9A.

Further information: www.aena.esTelephone: 902 404 704.

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LIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK 6. Transport


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Madrid - Barajas airport


Metro: Metro line 8 connects the airport with city in 13 minutes. Passengers can check in at the Nuevos Ministerios Metro station. There is a €1 supplement for Metro trips to the airport.

Terminals T1, T2 and T3 are at the same Metro stop, while T4 has its own stop, as it is some distance away from the others.

Taxi: Passengers can also take taxis to and from the airport. When leaving the airport by taxi, passengers should use the official taxi rank and not accept rides with people offering unofficial taxi services inside the terminals.

Bus: Recently, a new bus line, takes you for 2€, from the railway station in Atocha, stopping in Cibeles and O´Donnel to the 1,2,3 and 4 Terminals of the Barajas Airport . This service is not interrupted at night.

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Madrid is at the centre of a radial system of roads that links the whole of the Iberian Peninsula and connects the Iberian Peninsula with the rest of Europe. Road connections between Madrid and the rest of Spain and Europe are constantly increasing. The main roads are the national motorways: A-1 (Madrid-Burgos-Irún), A-2 (Madrid-Barcelona), A-3 (Madrid-Valencia), A-4 (Madrid-Andalucía), A-5 (Madrid-Extremadura), A-6 (Madrid-A Coruña) and A-42 (Madrid-Toledo). There are also toll motorways from Madrid: R-2 (Madrid-Guadalajara), R-3 (Madrid-Arganda del Rey), R-4 (Madrid-Ocaña) and R-5 (Madrid-Navalcarnero).

Road access


Madrid’s two major railway stations are located in different parts of the city but are connected to the Metro system.- Atocha Railway Station connects Madrid to the south and northeast of Spain with high-speed trains, and there is also a through train to Portugal.- Chamartín Railway Station links Madrid to the north of Spain and to European capitals.

By train

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Madrid also has a series of ring roads: Calle 30, M-40, M-45 and M-50.

Further information is available at www.dgt.es (General Directorate of Traffic - Dirección General de Tráfico) and www.aseta.es (Association of Spanish Motorway, Tunnel, Bridge and Toll Road Companies – Asociación de Sociedades Españolas Concesionarias de Autopistas, Túneles,

Puentes y Vías de Peaje, ASETA).


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The Spanish railway network has a radial structure, with Madrid at the centre. The main services offered by RENFE, the Spanish National Railway Network, from the capital are the AVE high-speed trains. These trains enable fast connections to Seville, Córdoba, Valladolid, Zaragoza, Málaga, Lleida and Barcelona, among other cities. Starting in December 2010, a new line linking Madrid with Cuenca. Albacete and Valencia made its maiden trip, and transformed Madrid into the European capital with the most high speed connections.

The long distance network (Grandes Líneas) connects Madrid to all of Spain’s provincial capitals.

The regional network links the Community of Madrid to other autonomous communities, such as Andalusia, Cantabria, Castile-La Mancha, Castile-León, the Basque Country, Extremadura and Valencia. The Cercanías service (local trains) is one of Europe’s most competitive, with over 340 km of tracks and a total of 10 lines and 86 stations linking the city centre with the surrounding areas and nearby cities, such as Segovia, Ávila, Toledo and Guadalajara. Each day approximately one million passengers use this service on more than 1,300 trains (900 on weekends), from 6:00 am to 23:00 pm.

www.renfe.esInformation and bookings: 902 240 202.International information: 902 243 402.Internet sales information: 902 157 507.


Madrid Metro (underground) is cheap, extensive, clean and efficient. The network comprises 13 subterranean lines and 3 light metro lines covering a distance of 317 kilometres through the city. The Metro extends to other towns (Alcorcón, Móstoles, Fuenlabrada, Getafe, Leganés, Rivas Vaciamadrid, and Arganda del Rey) and the Madrid-Barajas airport. Approximately 650 million passengers used the Metro in 2009.

The Madrid Metro runs from 6:00 am to 2:00 am.

Metro

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Madrid has a first-class public transportation network.


Metro’s Station


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Prices vary according to zones: within Madrid (Zone A, €1 single) or to other towns in the Autonomous Community of Madrid (Zones B1, B2 and B3). Passengers can purchase ten-journey saver cards called “Metrobus" (Zone A: €9) for use on both the Metro and the city’s bus system. Tickets can be purchased from the ticket counters and ticket vending machines at the stations, at EMT (Empresa Municipal de

Transporte – Municipal Transport Company) points and at tobacconists and newsagents.

The Abono de Transporte (public transport pass) allows holders an unlimited amount of journeys on public transportation (Metro and bus) in the chosen zone and time period. This card is non-transferrable and requires the purchase of either a monthly or an annual ticket. Three types of passes are available: Standard (for people aged 23 to 64); Youth Pass (under the age of 23) and the Senior Citizens’ Pass (age 65 and above). The price of the pass varies according to the type of pass and the zone for which it is to be used.

Tourist transport tickets are also available for all public transport within the Autonomous Community of Madrid, with unlimited journeys during the period of validity (1, 2, 3, 5 or 7 days). These tickets can be purchased for one of two zones: Zone A, which includes the Metro, Madrid EMT (bus) and Renfe Cercanías (local trains), and Zone T, which includes all transport services offered in the Autonomous Community of Madrid, Toledo and Guadalajara, except the Madrid– Airport bus lines. These tickets can be purchased at all metro stations and at the Passenger Services Centre at the Barajas Airport Metro station, as well as at offices of the regional transport consortium, certain tobacconists, newsagents, tourist offices and online (http://www.neoturismo.com).

Further information is available at www.metromadrid.es Customer service telephone: 902 444 403.


Bus

The Empresa Municipal de Transportes de Madrid (Madrid Municipal Transport Company - EMT) covers virtually the entire city with 190 lines and a fleet of 1994 buses, providing services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Regular lines operate from 5:30/6:00 to midnight, while nocturnal lines (called búhos or owls) run from 23:30 to 5:30. The búhos depart every half hour from Plaza de Cibeles (every 20 minutes at weekends).

The EMT has also added the metrobúhos (“underground owls”) that run on Friday and Saturday nights and on the nights before public

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holidays. These buses follow the same routes as the normal metro lines.

A single ticket (€1,50) can be bought on the bus itself. The EMT has launched a service enabling passengers to enquire when the next bus will arrive by sending an SMS to 7998 with the message "espera (space) stop number (space) line number.

Further information is available at www.emtmadrid.es. Customer service telephone: 902 507 850. and the Consorcio de Transportes de

Madrid (Madrid Transport Consortium) website: www.ctm-madrid.es, Tel.: 91 580 42 60.A single ticket (€1,50) can be bought on the bus itself. The EMT has launched a service enabling passengers to enquire when the next bus will arrive by sending an SMS to 7998 with the message "espera (space) stop number (space) line number.”

Taxi

There are over 15,000 taxis in the city of Madrid. They are easily identifiable by their white colour and the red diagonal stripe across the front doors.

Passengers questioning the fare should ask for a receipt and the driver’s taxi licence number. Taxi fares within the city are metered, plus any authorised supplement, which must be on display on the rear window of the vehicle. Taxi fares in Madrid are among the lowest in Europe. Passengers should check that the taxi driver has started the meter upon commencing the route.

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Driving licenses

A driving licence points system has been in force in Spain since July 1st 2006. Driving licences are no longer lifetime permits and are only valid


CHANGING FOREIGN DRIVING LICENSES

Driving licenses issued in member states of the european union and the European Economic Area (EEE: Noruega, Islandia and Liechenstein) Driving licences issued by Member States of the European Union in accordance with EU regulations are valid for driving in Spain, with the exception that the minimum driving age will be that of the equivalent Spanish licence.

Nevertheless, those driving licences which are suspended, restricted or cancelled in any European country, including Spain, would not be valid to drive in Spain.

as long as the holder has points remaining on the licence. All drivers start with 12 points (eight for new drivers), which are lost if serious or very serious infractions are committed. In addition to loss of points, drivers may be required to pay fines for infractions.

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Centre street of Madrid


Driving licences issued in non-eu countries

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Alternatively, these licences can be exchanged for the equivalent of a Spanish licence, upon presentation of the following documents:

• Official application form available at the Provincial Traffic Office and on the General Directorate of Traffic website: www.dgt.es • Valid National Identity Document, Passport or Residence Card (original and photocopy) together with an original certificate of inscription in the Central Foreigners Registry for European citizens.• European driving license, original and photocopy. • Recent photograph 32 x26 mm.• Written statement that the right to drive has not been suspended, restricted or cancelled by a Court of Law.• Written statement declaring not to hold a similar driving licence issued in Spain or other European country.• Payment of the corresponding fee. There is no time limit for exchanging driving licences issued by Member States of the European Union.

Driving licences that are valid for use in Spain are as follows: • Non-EU citizens wishing to drive in Spain must hold a licence issued in accordance with Appendix 9 of the Geneva Convention or Appendix 6 of the Vienna Convention, which stipulates that driving licences must reflect the driver’s personal details, the name of the issuing authority and the period of validity of the document, or differ from these models only due to the addition or suppression of non-essential information.


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• Licences from other countries that are written in Spanish or are accompanied by an official translation. • International licences that have been issued abroad in accordance with Appendix 10 of the Geneva Convention or Appendix E of the Paris International Convention.• Licences recognised in international agreements signed by Spain may also be exchanged. Licence exchange agreements are currently in force with the following countries:• Andorra, South Korean, Japan, Algeria, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia (temporarily suspended), Croatia, Ecuador, Morocco, Peru, Dominican Republic, Paraguay, Uruguay, Bolivia Venezuela, Brazil, El Salvador,The Phillippines, Guatemala, Serbia.• The above mentioned licences will be considered valid provided they are not expired and that the holder is of the minimum age required for the equivalent Spanish licence.

Licence exchange must be applied for within six months from the date that the Spanish residence is obtained.

After this period, licences obtained abroad will not be valid for driving in Spain and the holders must obtain a Spanish driving licence by meeting the corresponding requirements and completing the necessary tests. Documentation required for a licence exchange:

• Official application form available at the Provincial Traffic Office and on the General Directorate of Traffic website: www.dgt.es


ROAD SAFETY

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• Valid National Identity Document, Passport or Residence Card (original and photocopy).• Psychophysical aptitude report issued by an authorised driver evaluation centre in the province where the applicant resides, and a current photograph of the applicant. • Two current photographs (32 × 25 mm).• Written statement declaring that the applicant is not legally banned from driving motor vehicles or motorcycles nor that he is subject to any suspensions. • Written statement declaring that the applicant does not hold another driving licence, either issued in Spain or any other Member State, of the same class as the licence to which the application refers.• Written statement declaring responsibility for the authenticity and validity of the licence and, where applicable, the official translation into Spanish. • Licence to be exchanged (original and photocopy). • Payment of the corresponding fee. The Provincial Traffic Office will verify the authenticity of the licences with the issuing authorities. Appointments for exchanging driving licences can be made by calling 902 300 175 from 9:00 to 16:00hrs, Monday to Friday or by visiting the website.http://www.dgt.es/ http://www.dgt.es/tramites/canjes/citaprevia.htm

Important road safety regulations in force in Spain include the following:


- The use of seatbelts is compulsory in both the front and rear seats.- Where not indicated otherwise, speed limits are 120 km/h on motorways and main roads and 50 km/h on urban roads. Periodic speed controls are carried out.- It is strictly forbidden to talk on a mobile telephone while driving.- The maximum alcohol level for driving is 0.25 mg/ml.

Driving a car in Madrid is not very different from driving in other cities. The peak traffic hours are from 7:30 to 9:00 hrs and 18:00 to 20:00 hrs. On rainy days traffic jams may occur throughout the day.

There are two options for parking in the city centre:

- Paying a fee to park in an underground car park.

- Parking in authorised areas along the street, by paying for a ticket from a parking meter. There are two types of parking areas in Madrid:

Vehicles parked in illegal spaces may be towed away. The approximate cost of recovering a vehicle is €150.

The Madrid City Council website offers ample information about the traffic situation in the city (traffic jams, road works, traffic camera images, etc.) www.munimadrid.es/movilidad or www.madridmovilidad.es

Blue: For visitors to the neighbourhood (up to two hours parking) Green: For residents of the neighbourhood (no time limit, providing a resident permit is displayed). Neighbourhood resident permits can be applied for at the Regulated Parking Office, C/ Bustamante, 16. Tel: 010 or at the Citizen Attention Offices “Línea Madrid”.

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Driving in Madrid

HEALTHCARE

Public healthcare

Private healthcare

Other information

Emergencies

Dentists

Pharmacies

Main Public Hospitals in Madrid

Main Private Hospitals in Madrid

7


7

The Spanish healthcare system is a community-supported, public and free system.

Social Security healthcare is available for all registered workers, pensioners, and all those receiving periodic Social Security benefits, as well as their dependent family members and other such individuals.

The above individuals are entitled to healthcare benefits from the first day of registration with the Social Security system. The right to healthcare is recognised by the National Social Security Institute and processed at any Social Security office.

Spain has entered into a number of bilateral social security agreements governing how benefits payable in Spain may be affected by social security contributions made in other countries. Furthermore, as European social security regulations are applicable in Spain, workers are not penalised for moving from one Member State to another (Switzerland included).

Each autonomous community oversees and renders healthcare services in its region. In Madrid, the public healthcare network is managed by the Madrid Health Service, which forms part of the Department of Health.

Foreigners registered as local residents are entitled to the same healthcare benefits as Spanish nationals, regardless whether or not they are EU nationals or legal residents. This includes the following services: emergency care, primary and specialist care, common illness care, accident care, and maternity care (pregnancy, birth and post-natal care).


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Public healthcare

7. Healthcare

Foreigners not registered as local residents are entitled to emergency care.

Minors (under the age of 18) and pregnant women have the right to public healthcare, regardless of whether or not they are registered as residents.

Individuals wishing to access public healthcare services must apply for the Individual Healthcare Card (Tarjeta Individual Sanitaria, TIS) at their local health centre or at the Social Security healthcare offices. The health centre will issue and send the card to the applicant and his or her dependents.

In addition to individuals registered with the Social Security system and their family members, the TIS is also available to low-income individuals (annual income below the official minimum salary) that do not have a Social Security card, as well as foreign women who are pregnant and foreign minors (under 18), even if they are not legal residents.


1193

7. Healthcare

Medical center of Madrid


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Citizens of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland that hold a European Health Insurance Card are entitled to free healthcare in Spain. In Spain, this card can be obtained immediately from the Social Security Services and Information Centres (Centros de

Atención e Información de la Seguridad Social, CAISS) upon presentation of a national identity document or equivalent document.

The services rendered by the Primary Care Centres (Gerencias de

Atención Primaria) and the Health Centres (Centros de Salud) cover everything from healthcare promotion and education to illness prevention. These centres also treat acute and chronic illnesses and provide emergency care during regular business hours. Specialist attention is provided at specialised centres (Centros de

Especialidades) and the Community of Madrid public healthcare network hospitals. Specialist outpatient care requires a referral from a primary healthcare doctor (general practitioners). In-hospital care requires a referral from a specialist.

Madrid’s healthcare network is both extensive and of a high quality, with hospitals and outpatient clinics in practically every district of the city. A services guide and a directory of all the public healthcare network health centres and hospitals is available on the Community of Madrid Department of Health and Consumer Affairs website.

The Madrid City Council operates SAMUR (Servicio de Asistencia

Municipal de Urgencia y Rescate), a medical and emergency healthcare service and also available is SUMMA (Servicio de Urgencia Médica de

Madrid) operated by the regional government. Among other services, SAMUR and SUMMA provide assistance to traffic accident victims (telephone: 112).

7. Healthcare


95

Any individual may apply for private healthcare in Spain, which is of a very high quality. Insurance companies, such as Asisa, Sanitas, and Adeslas, operate board networks of both fully private and state-assisted clinics to respond to the needs of their policyholders in Madrid. Insurance rates vary greatly depending on age and gender of the applicant. The wide range of options and contracts offered by insurance companies can be divided into three main categories:

• Basic rangeThese are the simplest products for basic accidents, without the additional coverage that would lead to higher costs. Naturally, these policies are the least expensive. • Mid-rangeMid-range products are suitable for the vast majority of situations and provide ample and reasonably-priced coverage for policyholders’ usual needs.

• High rangeThis is the highest level of products in all branches of insurance. These products offer the greatest guarantees and most comprehensive coverage. Naturally, high-range products are the most expensive.

Further information is available at:Community of Madrid Department of Health http://www.madrid.org/sanidadhttp://www.madrid.org/catalogo_hospitales Ministry of Health: http://www.msc.es Social Security: http://www.seg-social.es

Private healthcare

7. Healthcare

English-speaking doctors

Perhaps due to their educational backgrounds, the majority of doctors in Madrid speak at least some English. However, for those times when patients need to explain their symptoms in their own language, the following resources are available:

Unidad Médica Angloamericana (Anglo-American Medical Unit) www.unidadmedica.com

List of English-speaking doctors: http://www.embusa.es/cons/acsphysicians1010.pdf http://www.spainexpat.com/spain/information/doctors_in_spain/

Patients seeking medical services in other languages are advised to contact their embassies.


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Other information

7. Healthcare

EMERGENCIES

The free emergency number for any healthcare emergency or safety matter is 112 (this number is valid for all European Union countries).

DENTISTS

Individuals who do not have private medical insurance covering dental treatment must pay for it out of their own pocket. Dental services are not excessively costly, and the vast majority of dental treatments can be financed.

No forms need to be filled out at the time of dental treatment; only a prior appointment is required. However, patients are advised to take along some form of identification.


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PHARMACIES

In Spain, medication must be purchased from a pharmacy. Only medical professionals can prescribe treatments and prescriptions.

Pharmacies are usually open Monday to Friday from 9.30 to 14:00hrs and from 17:00 to 21:30hrs, and Saturdays from 9:30 to 14:00hrs. However, there are a number of 24-hour pharmacies (mainly in the city centre), and at least one pharmacy in each neighbourhood or district is required to provide all-night services for emergencies. All pharmacies display a list of the nearest all-night pharmacies.

MAIN PUBLIC HOSPITALS IN MADRID

Hospital Universitario 12 DE OCTUBRE http://www.h12o.esHospital Universitario LA PAZ http://www.hulp.es/Hospital Universitario PUERTA DE HIERRO http://www.madrid.org/cs/Satellite?pagename=HospitalPuertaHierroMaja/Page/HPHM_homeHospital RAMON Y CAJAL http://www.hrc.esHospital Universitario INFANTA CRISTINA http://www.madrid.org/cs/Satellite?language=es&pagename=HospitalInfantaCristina/Page/HSUR_homeHospital Clínico SAN CARLOS http://www.hcsc.es/Hospital CARLOS III http://www.madrid.org/cs/Satellite?pagename=HospitalCarlosIII/Page/HCAR_home Hospital CANTOBLANCO http://www.hulp.es/Hospital Universitario DE LA PRINCESA http://www.madrid.org/cs/Satellite?pagename=HospitalLaPrincesa/Page/HPRI_homeHospital General Universitario GREGORIO MARAÑÓN http://www.hggm.es

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Hospital Infantil Universitario NIÑO JESÚS http://www.madrid.org/cs/Satellite?pagename=HospitalNinoJesus/Page/HNIJ_homeHospital VIRGEN DE LA TORRE http://www.madrid.org/cs/Satellite?pagename=HospitalVirgenTorre/Page/HVTO_home

MAIN PRIVATE HOSPITALS IN MADRID

Hospital MONCLOA www.hospitalmoncloa.esHospital LA MORALEJA http://www.hospitallamoraleja.comClínica FUENSANTA www.grupofuensanta.comHospital NUESTRA SEÑORA DE AMÉRICA http://www.hnsamerica.nehos.comUSP Hospital SAN JOSÉ http://www.uspsanjose.comSanatorio Quirúrgico VIRGEN DEL MAR http://www.sanatoriovirgendelmar.com/USP Hospital SAN CAMILO http://www.uspsancamilo.comClínica RUBER http://www.ruber.esHospital VIRGEN DE LA PALOMA. S.A. www.hospitalvpaloma.comHospital RUBER INTERNACIONAL www.ruberinternacional.esClínica ISADORA http://www.clinica-isadora.esClínica LA MILAGROSA www.lamilagrosa.comFundación JIMÉNEZ DÍAZ. Clínica NTRA. SRA. DE LA CONCEPCIÓNwww.capiosanidad.es/fjdHospital de LA ZARZUELA http://www.hospitalzarzuela.comClínica SEAR http://www.clinicasear.com

Source: Registro de Centros, Servicio y Establecimientos Sanitarios de la Comunidad de Madrid (Community of Madrid Registry of Healthcare Centres, Services and Establishments (http://www.centrossanitarios.sanidadmadrid.org/)

7. Healthcare

EDUCATION

The Spanish education system



The academic year

University studies


O!cial validation of a quali"cation

Grant of the validation

Documentation required for validation

Non o!cial post graduate studies: master courses, specialisations, and expert, andother courses

8


In Spain, formal education is compulsory from age 6 to 16, and is free of charge from age 3 onwards.

The educational system is divided into the following levels:• Early childhood education: from zero to 6 years of age.• Compulsory primary education: from 6 to 12 years of age.• Compulsory secondary education: from 12 to 16 years of age.

After age 16, education is no longer compulsory. Students wishing to continue their studies may opt to do the Bachillerato (higher secondary-education course, up to age 18) and then attend university after passing an entry exam. Alternatively, they may follow a vocational training course and then either go to university or enter the job market.

Education centres may be public or private. Public centres are financed by the state. Private schools are owned by an individual or a company. In addition, in certain private schools, the basic educational elements are financed by the state, while the expenses for additional activities, not included in compulsory education, are met by students’ parents.

Madrid has a comprehensive and high-quality educational service.


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The Spanish educational system

The Autonomous Community of Madrid is committed to bilingual education in its state-owned schools: one out of every three of Madrid’s early childhood and primary schools will provide bilingual education in the 2010-2011 academic year. This means that over 60,000 pupils at 274 centres will study free charge in both Spanish and English.


8. Education


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Each of these schools is free to choose the subjects provided in the foreign language, as long as they are not Spanish language or mathematics. All schools have a “sister school” in the United Kingdom to facilitate student exchanges. As sister schools remain in constant contact, parents, teachers and pupils of the centres develop a close relationship. A significant number of international schools can also be found in Madrid (German, American, British, French, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, etc.). Schooling in these centres is based on the educational systems of the home country.

8. Education

Student painting


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Below is a list of international schools authorised to teach in accordance with foreign educational systems: (Source: Dirección General de Centros

Docentes - Consejería de Educación de la Comunidad de Madrid – Community of Madrid Department of Education, Directorate General of Educational Centres.

German educational system• Colegio Alemán de Madrid: www.dsmadrid.com Av. Concha Espina, 32 - 28016 Madrid – Tel.: 91 782 36 70.• El Delfín Don Mulder: C/ Segre, 3 - 28002 Madrid - Tel.: 91 561 40 79.• Kinderparadies: www.kinderparadies-madrid.com C/ Peña Pintada, 13 - 28034 Madrid - Tel.: 91 735 97 10.• Sonnen Schule: http://www.britishnursery.com/C/ Bidasoa, 7 - 28002 Madrid - Tel.: 91 563 54 13.

American educational system• International College Spain: www.iscmadrid.orgC/ Vereda Norte, 3. La Moraleja - 28109 Alcobendas - Tel.: 916502398/99.• Colegio Americano de Madrid: www.asmadrid.comCtra. Aravaca a Húmera, km. 2 - 28224 Pozuelo de Alarcón - Tel.: 913572154.

British educational system• Hastings School: www.hastingsschool.comPº de la Habana, 204 y C/ Azulinas, 8 – 28036 Madrid - Tel.: 91 359 06 21.• International School of Madrid: www.internationalschoolofmadrid.com/ C/ Rosa Jardón, 3 - 28016 Madrid y C/ Serrano Galvache, 13 - 28033 Madrid - Tel.: 91 359 21 21.

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• King’s College: www.kingscollege.es/esC/ Prieto Ureña, 9 y 11 - 28016 Madrid - Tel.: 91 350 58 43.C/ Paseo de Alcobendas, 5 - 28109 La Moraleja- Tel.: 91 658 55 40.• Orgaz Nursery School: www.orgazschool.comC/ Frascuelo, 2 - 28043 Madrid - Tel.: 91 388 93 55.• Numont School:

http://personal.telefonica.terra.es/web/numontschool/C/ Parma, 16 - 28043 Madrid - Tel.: 91 300 24 31.• Runnymede College: http://www.runnymede-college.comC/ Salvia, 30. La Moraleja - 28109 Alcobendas (Madrid) - Tel.: 91 650 84 89.• St. Anne’s School: http://www.stannesmadrid.comAvda. Alfonso XIII, 164 - 28016 Madrid - Tel.: 91 561 27 17.• St. Michael’s School: http://www.stmichaelsschool.esAvda. de la Victoria, 94-96 - 28023 Aravaca (Madrid) - Tel.: 91 307 71 74.• The English Montessori School: www.msmadrid.org/Avda. La Salle, s/n. - 28023 Aravaca (Madrid) - Tel.: 913572667/68.• Todo Niños Nursery School: Serrano, 163 - 28002 Madrid - Tel.: 91 411 69 79.• Montessori School, Los Fresnos: http://www.msmadrid.org C/ Navacerrada, 13 - 28430 Alpedrete (Madrid) - Tel.: 91 857 91 17.• Montessori School, Los Fresnos-Mataespesa: http://www.msmadrid.org Avda. de Mataespesa, 45 - 28430 Alpedrete (Madrid) - Tel.: 91 857 93 00.• St. Michael’s School II: http://www.stmichaelsschool.esRío Guadiana, 2 - 28660 Boadilla del Monte (Madrid) - Tel.: 91 633 00 78.• Montessori School El Enebral: http://www.msmadrid.org Pº de Belmas, 2 - 28400 Collado Villalba (Madrid) - Tel.: 91.850 10 53.• British Council School: www.britishcouncil.esC/ Solano, 3-5-7 - 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón – Tel.: 91 337 36 12.• British Nursery: www.britishnursery.com/C/ Vía de las dos Castillas, 23, Chalet 21 - 28224 Pozuelo de Alarcón (Madrid) – Tel.: 91634 32 20.

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• Kensington School: www.kensington-school.esAvda. de Bularas, 2 - 28224 Pozuelo de Alarcón (Madrid) - Tel.: 91 715 46 99.

French educational system• Ecole Maternelle Française Pomme d’Api: www.ecolepommedapi.comAvda. de los Madroños, 69 - 28043 Madrid – Tel.: 91 388 27 64.• École Saint-Exupery: www.apasaintexupery.comCamino Ancho, 85. Soto de la Moraleja – 28109 Alcobendas - Tel.: 91 650 70 19.• Lycée Français: www.lfmadrid.net Plaza del Liceo, 1 (Parque Conde de Orgaz)-28043 Madrid-Tel.: 91 748 94 90.• Union Chretienne de St. Chaumond: C/ Rodríguez Martín, 32, C/ Gal-larza, 25, C/ Alfonso XIII, 155 y C/ Bolivia, 31 - 28002 Madrid - Tel.: 91 359 27 60.• Lycée Molière: http://www.lycee-moliere-madrid.orgC/ Cristo, s/n - 28691 Villanueva de la Cañada (Madrid) - Tel.: 91 815 50 70.• Saint Louis des Français: http://www.stlouisfrancais.comC/ Portugalete, 1 - 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón (Madrid) - Tel.: 91 352 05 17.

Italian educational system• Scuola Materna Italiana de Madrid:

http://www.scuolaitalianamadrid.orgC/ Agustín de Bethencourt, 1 - 28003 Madrid• Scuola Statale Italiana de Madrid: http://www.scuolaitalianamadrid.orgC/ Agustín de Bethencourt, 1 - 28003 Madrid - Tel.: 91 533 05 39.

Dutch educational system • Hof Der Lage Landen: http://www.nederlandstaligeschool.comC/ Alonso Saavedra, 20-22 - 28033 Madrid - Tel.: 917661045.

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Swedish educational system• Asociación del Colegio Escandinavo: http://www.escandinavo.comCno. Ancho, 14. La Moraleja - 28109 Alcobendas (Madrid) - Tel.: 91 650 01 27.

Swiss educational system• Colegio Suizo de Madrid:

http://www.colegiosuizomadrid.com/index.phpCtra. de Burgos, km. 14 - 28100 Alcobendas (Madrid) - Tel.: 916505818.

Japanese educational system• Colegio Japonés de Madrid: Av. De la Victoria 98-100. El Plantío – 28023 Madrid - Tel.: 91 307 78 22.

Libyan educational system• Escuela Al-Fateh Árabe Madrid: C/ Rodríguez Marín, 7. Colonia El Viso – 28002 Madrid- Tel.: 91 564 60 06.

Arabic educational system• Colegio Saudí de Madrid: Salvador de Madariaga, 4 -28027 Madrid - Tel.: 91 448 05 54.

Iraqui educational system• Escuela Iraquí en Madrid: Ronda de la Abubilla 18 – 28043 Madrid. Tel.: 91 759 48 67.

8. Education

Local cultural centres generally offer the least expensive option for extracurricular activities. Many subsidised educational centres and academies organise a variety of morning and afternoon/evening activities for both children and adults. For a moderate price, children and adults can learn to read music, play an instrument, paint, or enjoy ballet, modern dance, gymnastics, etc. Each centre offers a wide range of courses for adults and children, with special emphasis on senior citizens.

The City Council sports centres are also an affordable leisure option. These sports facilities normally have heated swimming pools open to the public all year round. Classes normally include judo and aerobics, and most offer gymnastics, showers and changing rooms, and other facilities. Information on these sports centres can be found at the local council board (Juntas municipales) of each district or online at: www.munimadrid.es

The academic year starts in early/mid- September and finishes in late June of the following year. Higher secondary-education students preparing the university entrance exam finish their academic year in May to allow approximately one month to prepare for the tests.

Holiday periods are generally the same for all levels. Christmas holidays usually run from around December 22nd to the first working day after Epiphany (January 6th). The one-week Easter holiday usually falls in March or April.

Further information is available at:http://www.munimadrid.es/Principal/ayuntamiento/ServMuni/educacion/EducacionPrincipal.htm

The academic year


8. EducationLIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK

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The Community of Madrid is home to seven state-owned universities: Universidad de Alcalá (www.uah.es), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (www.uam.es), Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (www.uc3m.es), Universidad Complutense de Madrid (www.ucm.es), Universidad

Politécnica de Madrid (www.upm.es), Universidad Rey Juan Carlos

(www.urjc.es), and the Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (Open University) (www.uned.es), and nine private universities: Universidad Alfonso X El Sabio (www.uax.es), Universidad Antonio de

Nebrija (www.nebrija.com), Universidad Camilo José Cela (www.ucjc.edu), UDIMA, Universidad a Distancia de Madrid

(www.udima.es) Universidad Europea de Madrid (www.uem.es), Universidad Francisco de Vitoria (www.fvitoria.com), Universidad San

Pablo-CEU (www.ceu.es), Universidad Pontificia Comillas de Madrid (www.upcomillas.es) and the Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca (www.upsam.com).

State-owned universities are financed with public funds. Students are only required to pay enrolment fees. The universities operate specialised centres and in some cases have associated centres:

University studies

Punto de Información y Atención al Ciudadano de la Consejería de

Educación (The Autonomous Community of Madrid Department of Education Resident Services and Information Office):C/ Gran Vía 20, 28013 Madrid.Tel: 012 Fax: 91 720 13 02.http://www.madrid.org

Ministry of Education: C/ Alcalá, 36. 28071 Madrid http://www.mec.es


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- State-owned university centres are divided into Facultades (faculties) for full degree programmes, Escuelas Técnicas Superiores (Advanced Technical Schools), i.e., for architecture and engineering; Escuelas

Universitarias (University Schools), for two-year diploma courses; and Escuelas Técnicas (Technical Schools), i.e., for technical architecture and technical engineering.

- Associated centres may be public or private. At public associated centres students only pay the enrolment fee. At private associated centres, students make monthly payments throughout the year. Upon completion of a course, the qualification is issued by the public university associated with the centre.

Students of private universities pay both enrolment fees and monthly tuition fees throughout the academic year.

The price of enrolment at state-owned universities is established by the Community of Madrid. The price of a complete first course varies between €500 and €800, depending on the course. Private universities charge between €3,000 and €9,000 per academic year.

In Spain, official university education is structured into cycles and lasts for three to six years, depending whether students choose to study only a first-cycle course (two-year diplomas, technical engineering, technical architecture and education) or a second cycle (degree programmes, engineering and architecture). Admission to a third cycle or doctorate programme requires a degree in engineering, architecture or the particular field of study. In addition, doctoral candidates must successfully complete the pertinent departmental courses, seminars and guided research work and achieve research proficiency. Lastly, these students must present a doctoral thesis based on original research work for approval by the university.

The academic year runs for nine months, generally from October to June.


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As students wishing to enter a university programme are required to hold a secondary school graduate or equivalent qualification, foreign or Spanish students with approved foreign studies must have their studies officially validated and sit a special access test. This test is called the Prueba de Acceso a la Universidad or Selectividad (University entrance test) and comprises a series of exams in different subjects. Successful candidates can then go on to study official university courses.

Students wishing to continue studies started abroad must apply for their studies to be validated by the secretariat of the pertinent centre.

Madrid is also home to numerous private centres that are authorised to provide university-level education in accordance with the educational systems of other countries (subsequently students may apply for the foreign qualification to be validated for Spain).

Further information is available at:

Sección de Información del Ministerio de Educación y Ciencia (Information Section of the Ministry of Education and Science): C/ Alcalá 36. 28014 Madrid.Tel: 91 701 85 00.http://www.mec.es

Consejería de Educación de la Comunidad de Madrid (Department of Education of the Madrid Community):Alcalá, 32. 28014 Madrid.Tel: 91 720 02 06 / 07.Fax: 91 720 02 08.Email: [email protected] http://www.madrid.org/universidades


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Foreign university studies can be officially approved and validated as the equivalent Spanish qualification: degree, degree in architecture, degree in engineering, two-year diploma, education, technical architecture, technical engineering, and doctorate, provided that the programme of study is sufficiently similar to the official Spanish qualification offered at a Spanish university at the time of the validation application.



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OFFICIAL VALIDATION OF A QUALIFICATION

The following points are taken into account when considering a validation application:

Students at the ‘Plaza Mayor’

• The academic level required for acceptance in the foreign qualification study programme but must be similar to the level required for acceptance in the Spanish programme.• The duration and course hours of the academic period required to obtain the foreign qualification.• The academic level required for completing the foreign qualification must be similar to the level required for completing the Spanish programme.• The education content students must successfully complete to obtain the foreign qualification.

For a degree in architecture, engineering or other course of study to be validated as the corresponding Spanish degree, the foreign qualification must enable students to access post-graduate studies in the country of origin.


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GRANT OF THE VALIDATION

The Ministry of Education decides whether or not a qualification may be validated. Alternatively, where degrees are rather similar, the Ministry may issue a decision requiring that the student first completes additional steps to bring the foreign qualification into line with the requirements for the Spanish qualification.

These steps may include passing an aptitude test, completing a work placement position, preparing a project or attending tutored courses to make up any shortfalls.


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DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED FOR VALIDATION

Compulsory:• Certified copy of a document showing the identity and nationality of the applicant, issued by the competent body in the applicant's country of origin or by the pertinent Spanish authorities. • Certified copy of the qualification for which validation is sought or of a certificate proving its issue.• Certified copy of a transcript showing the studies completed by the applicant, including, inter alia, the official duration (number of academic years) of the curriculum, the subjects studied and the course hours logged for each subject.• Receipt of payment for the corresponding fees.

Additional: the authorities may require applicants to submit other docu-ments considered necessary to evidence that the studies required for the foreign qualification are equivalent to those required for the Spanish qualification.

All documents issued abroad must be official and be granted by the competent authorities. These documents must be legalised by either the corresponding embassy or with the Hague Convention Apostille (except documents issued in EU and European Economic Area countries). Where applicable, the documents must be accompanied by an official Spanish translation.

Further resources include:

In Spain:

• Servicio de Información Educativa del Ministerio de Educación y Ciencia.

Convalidaciones y Homologaciones.

C/ Alcalá, 36. 28014 Madrid. Tel: 91 701 80 00 / 902 21 85 00.

Non o�cial post graduate studies: masters and

specialist, expert, and other courses

• Educational inspection areas of the regional offices of the government, as well as the Ministry of Education provincial offices in Ceuta and Melilla.

Abroad:

• Departments of Education and Consular Offices of the Spanish Embassies.

In addition to issuing official qualifications (diplomas, degrees and doctorates), universities may offer other non-official diplomas and qualifications. These qualifications do not have the full academic and professional entitlements of official university qualifications. Courses include masters and expert courses or shorter training courses.

Many academic centres also offer private, unofficial master's programmes and other qualifications.

A wide range of specialised courses in fields such as medicine, economics, business, law, etc. are offered in Madrid.

According to a study carried out by the Wall Street Journal, Madrid is home to three of the twenty-one best business schools in the world: ESADE, IESE and Instituto de Empresa. The Economist magazine has also published a list of business schools which recognised the IESE’s MBA programmes as the best in the world.


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9CULTURE AND LEISURE

Learning the language

Culture

Prado Museum

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Reina Sofía National Art Museum

Other museums

Gastronomy

The sum of all national and international cuisines

Madrid Fusión

Tipping

Leisure

Tourism

Around Madrid

Religious Worship

Green Madrid

Shopping

Opening hours

Payment

Sales

Festivals


Music and shows

Opera, Zarzuela, Classical music, Jazz and Rock,

Flamenco, Musicals, Theater, Cinema, Bull#ghting,

Sports

Activities for kids

9. Culture and leisureLIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK

The Spanish or Castilian language began evolving from Latin in the 3rdcentury BC and is now in use all over the world. Its development is the result of a thousand-year process in which the different languages spoken on the Iberian Peninsula were modified under the influence of the Romans, the Goths and the Moors. When the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon unified at the end of the 15th century to extend their controlover practically the entire peninsula, the language of Castile (Castilian) became more widely used than other languages and dialects and even crossed the Atlantic with the Spanish conquistadors and missionaries.

To learn Spanish is to learn about the rich cultural and artistic heritageof Spain, a fascinating endeavour from the very start. There are many ways to learn Spanish or improve proficiency in the language, from tailor-made courses to university and post-graduate studies, paid workplacements, stays with families and even employment positions.

Spanish embassies or consulates abroad are a good source of information regarding the requirements for studying in Spain.

Some interesting facts about Spanish are:

• Spanish is the official language of 22 countries and the third mostspoken language in the world after Chinese and English.• It is one of the official languages of the European Union, UNESCO, theUN, GATT and UNIDO.• Spanish is one the most important languages in international politicalmeetings.

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Learning the Language

9. Culture and leisure9. Culture and leisureLIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK

• There has been a major growth in the use of Spanish and the number of Spanish speakers around the world, leading to an increased demand for radio, newspapers and other media in Spanish. There are now over 16,000 publications, 250 TV channels and 5000 radio channels in the Spanish language.• The demand for Spanish language courses has doubled in the last tenyears (within the next 15 years around 10% of the world’s population will speak Spanish).• It is the language that has shown the largest growth in the United States (over 30 million speakers).• Spanish is the second most-used language in international communication.

Useful links for learning Spanish:

Real Academia Española (Spanish Royal Language Academy):http://www.rae.es/

Instituto Cervantes (Cervantes Institute): http://cvc.cervantes.esEscuela Oficial de Idiomas (Official School of Languages):http://www.eoidiomas.com/

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Culture

Although Madrid clearly has a vast cultural offer, the city’s mostrepresentative museums, the Prado, the Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, undoubtedly represent the artistic core of the city.

Further information is available at: the Ministry of Culture, Museums Area:http://www.mcu.es/museos/index.html

THE MUSEO DEL PRADO ( Prado Museum)The Prado is one of the world’s largest and most important art galleries.Designed by the architect Juan de Villanueva, it is located in one of Madrid's most beautiful areas. The museum houses over 9,000 works of art, of which only 1,500 are on public display.

The museum has added a number of new rooms designed by the architect Rafael Moneo. The enlargement, which integrated the renovated Claustro de los Jerónimos (Cloister of St. Jerome), has added 15,715 m² to the original building for housing exhibitions, preservation and restoration workshops and storing the museum’s immense and valuable collection of paintings and sculptures.

Some of the most renowned artists represented in the museum are Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Murillo, Botticelli, Rafael, Tiziano, Tintoretto,Ribera, Breughel, Van der Weijden, Van Dyck, El Bosco, Durero, Rembrandt, Rubens, Bronzino, Fra Angelico, and Mantegna.

Pº del Prado, s/n (Metro: Banco de España). Tel.: 91 330 28 00.http://www.museodelprado.es/


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‘Las meninas’ by Velázquez


THE MUSEO THYSSEN-BORNEMISZA (Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum)

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is located in the Palacio de Villahermosa (19th century) and houses a private collection. This collection was started in 1920 and subsequently transferred to the Spanish state in 1993.

The museum’s three floors provide a stroll through the history of western painting, through the works of many of the best painters of the 18th to 20th centuries: Van der Weijden, Van Dyck, Durero, Cranach the Elder, Grien, etc.

The museum has been enlarged to include two completely remodelledadjacent buildings that house a wide selection of the CarmenThyssen-Bornemisza collection and a new exhibition room.

Pº del Prado, 8 (Metro: Banco de España). Tel: 91 369 01 51.www.museothyssen.org

THE MUSEO NACIONAL DE ARTE REINA SOFÍA (Reina Sofía National Art Museum)

The Reina Sofia National Art Museum opened in 1986 and is the largest space in Madrid for temporary and travelling national and international art exhibitions. The most famous painting on display in this museum is Picasso’s Guernica.

The Reina Sofia’s enlargement to three new buildings, designed by the architect Jean Nouvel, has increased the quality and the quantity of theservices offered by this museum. C/ Santa Isabel, 52 (Metro: Atocha).Tel.: 91 467 50 62. www.museoreinasofia.es


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OTHER MUSEUMS

Although the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) is no longer used as a royalresidence, its architecture, gardens and collection of sumptuous decorative art is of great interest.

http://www.patrimonionacional.esC/ Bailén s/n. (Metro: Opera). Tel: +34 91 454 87 00.


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Picasso’s El Guernica

‘Palacio Real’


The Museo Arqueológico Nacional (National Museum of Archaeology)allows visitors to contemplate the history of mankind from its originsthrough to the Modern Age. One of its most treasured pieces is the Lady of Elx. Serrano, 13 (Metro: Serrano / Colón). Tel: 91 577 79 12.

The Museo Sorolla (Sorolla Museum) features paintings by the brilliant Valencia-born artist Joaquín Sorolla. http://museosorolla.mcu.es Paseo del General Martínez Campos, 37 (Metro: Iglesia / Rubén Darío).Tel: 91 310 15 84.

The Museo de América (Museum of America) house a large collection ofobjects from pre-Colombian American cultures.http://museodeamerica.mcu.esAvenida de los Reyes Católicos, 6 (Metro: Moncloa). Tel: 91 543 9437.

Madrid is home to a great many art galleries, which first sprung up in the Salamanca and Atocha areas around the Reina Sofía Museum and are now found all over the city. There are also exhibition halls, featuring a wide range of styles from national and international artists.

Further information is available at:www.artemadrid.com Asociación de Galerías de Arte de Madrid (MadridAssociation of Art Galleries) http://www.revistadearte.com/.

Madrid offers visitors 1962 monuments, 342 statues and 103 culturalcentres. Most of them are located in the oldest part of the city, once thecapital of the Spanish empire. These include:

• The Plaza Mayor, the heart of the Madrid de los Austrias, the home ofmany festivals and leisure activities.


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‘Plaza Mayor’


• The Casa de la Villa, a building that belongs to the City Council.• The Plaza de Oriente, location of the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) and the Teatro Real (Royal Theatre), one of the most harmonious settings of the Madrid de los Borbones.• The newly-restored Plaza de la Paja, located at the foot of a Mudejar wall and surrounded by medieval streets.• Las Cavas, popular and historical crossroads dating back to the medieval period. The 18th Century taverns lining the streets are a must-see for all visitors.• Puerta de Alcalá and Cibeles, where the surrounding avenues, monuments and fountains have become symbols of the city.


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‘Puerta de Alcalá’


Gastronomy

Madrid’s gastronomical offer is extensive and varied. The city has over 2,800 restaurants offering dishes from all over the country, in addition toMadrid’s own traditional cuisine.

A typical way to enjoy Spanish and Madrid cuisine is to have tapas at any of the city's 16,000 bars. Tapas are small plates of food to be eaten standing at the bar while enjoying a beer or a glass of wine. Although tapas have become a widespread custom, Madrid continues to be a unique and distinct place for enjoying the traditional food.

Madrid’s most typical dishes include cocido madrileño (Madrid-style stew) and other pulse-based stews, callos a la madrileña (Madrid-style tripe), sopa de ajo (garlic soup), tortilla de patatas (Spanish potato omelette) and delicious lamb and beef recipes. These dishes come with fresh vegetables and garden produce, including the tasty Aranjuez asparagus, which is of an extraordinary quality.

Fish also represents a major element of Madrid’s cuisine, in terms of both quality and quantity. Although it may seem somewhat paradoxical – taking into account that Madrid is a landlocked city – Madrid’s fish market is second only to Tokyo’s in terms of size. Baked sea bream and cod are two of the most traditional dishes.

Madrid also offers a wide range of international restaurants: European (Belgian, French, German, Greek, Irish, Italian, Portuguese, etc), Asian (all specialities, including Cantonese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, etc), North American, and South American (Argentinean, Brazilian, Mexican, etc.).


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THE SUM OF ALL NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL CUISINES


Every year Madrid hosts the Madrid Fusion International Gastronomy Summit (2010 being its eighth year), featuring the most brilliant chefs of the moment, making Madrid the gastronomic capital of the world.


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‘Jamón’

MADRID FUSION


Tipping

The event includes a number of conferences, meetings, tastings, tributes and competitions.

The live cooking demonstrations by the world’s leading chefs garner much interest and enthusiasm among those attending the fair. Madrid

Fusión is held in January at the Palacio Municipal de Congresos (Municipal Conference Hall).

Further information:http://www.madridfusion.net

As service is included in the price at the majority of restaurants in Spain,it is not compulsory to leave a tip. However, diners generally leave a 5%of the total bill. In taxis, rounding up the amount is normally sufficient.Although tipping is not compulsory under any circumstances, it is awidespread custom to leave a small amount to recognise good service.

Leisure

Below are four routes to allow visitors to discover the prettiest, mostcharming and unforgettable treasures of Madrid.


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TOURISM


1. Artistic Madrid. The Paseo del Arte, home to Madrid's three most important museums, is certainly the city’s most visited area1. Museo Reina Sofía (Reina Sofía Museum).2. Jardín Botánico (Botanical Gardens).3. Museo del Prado (Prado Museum).4. Iglesia de los Jerónimos (Church of St. Jerome).5. Parque del Retiro (El Retiro Park).6. Puerta de Alcalá (Alcalá Gate).7. Casa de América (House of America).8. Palacio de Comunicaciones (Communications Palace).9. Fuente de la Cibeles (Cibeles Fountain).10. Palacio de Buenavista (Buenavista Palace).11. Banco de España (Bank of Spain).12. Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza (Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum).13. Parlamento (Parliament).14. Puerta del Sol (Gate of the Sun).

2. Literary Madrid. A stroll though Madrid’s literary heritage:

1. Plaza Jacinto Benavente.

2. Plaza Santa Ana.

3. Calle Lope de Vega.

4. Calle Cervantes.

5. Iglesia de El Cristo de Medinaceli (Church of Christ of Medinaceli).6. Calle del Prado - Ateneo.

7. Plaza de las Cortes.

8. Círculo de Bellas Artes (Fine Arts Circle).9. Paseo de Recoletos.

10. Café Gijón.

3. Historical Madrid. Madrid de los Asturias is the best conserved areain the city. Dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, when the Kingsof Spain were members of the Habsburg or Austrian Dinasty. This areaconstitutes one of Madrid’s best known landmarks.


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1. Plaza Isabel II.

2. Teatro Real (Royal Theatre).3. Plaza de Oriente.

4. Palacio Real (Royal Palace).5. Catedral de la Almudena (Almudena Cathedral).6. Cuesta de la Vega - Muralla Árabe (Arabic Wall).7. Calle Bailén - Viaduct - Iglesia San Francisco el Grande (Church of St.Francis the Great) return via Bailén: to Calle Mayor.

8. Plaza Villa.9. Plaza Mayor.

10. Calle Mayor.

11. Puerta del Sol .

4. Modern-day Madrid. The most recent monuments and buildingsbuilt in the second half of the 20th century:1. Plaza de España.

2. Gran Vía.

3. Alcalá.

4. Cibeles.

5. Recoletos.

6. Bárbara de Braganza-Fernando VI:

7. Alonso Martínez - Génova - Colón.

8. Paseo de la Castellana.

9. Pza. Colón-Emilio Castelar.10. Pza. Emilio Castelar - Pza. Castilla.

All Madrid’s tourist routes, its major museums and the Royal Palace are accessible to individuals with physical or sensorial disabilities. However, access to some areas of the old town can be somewhat more problematic.


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The Descubre Madrid (Discover Madrid) programme created by the Madrid Tourist Board offers city visits for the vision and hearing impaired. Routes are offered through the Madrid de los Asturias and the Madrid de los Borbones.

Although the walking routes through the medieval streets of surrounding historical towns (Toledo, Segovia, El Escorial, etc.) may present some difficulties, work is underway to eliminate architectural barriers in both buildings and monuments.

Tourist busMADRID VISIÓN is an open-top double-decker bus that offers a panoramic view of the city along a 35 km route. Tourist information aboard isavailable in eight different languages.

Madrid Visión currently offers two different routes:• Historical Madrid, showing the oldest parts of the city• Modern Madrid, showing Madrid’s latest developments and skyscrapers.

As the two routes interconnect at certain stops, tickets can be used forboth of them.

Single-day or two consecutive day tickets can be purchased at travel agencies, Madrid Visión information points, hotels and on the bus itself. Tickets allow users to hop on and hop off along the route as many times as they wish. The service operates every day of the year except January 1st (New Year’s Day) and the day in September of the arrival of the Vuelta Ciclista a España in Madrid.

Further information: www.madridvision.esTel: 91 779 1888 (from 9:00 to 14:00 and 16:00 to 19:00, Monday toFriday).


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Madrid CardThis 24, 48 or 72-hour tourist card offers major benefits for visitors toMadrid:- Access to the cultural offer of Madrid and the surrounding area.Entry to more than 40 of the main museums.- Unlimited trips on the Madrid Visión tourist bus.- All visits included in the Descubre Madrid programme.- Amusement Park, Madrid Zoo-Aquarium, Teleférico (cable car),Faunia nature park, Imax theatre, etc.- Tour of the Santiago Bernabéu football stadium.- Discounts at shops, restaurants, shows and leisure centres for adultsand children.

The Madrid Card also comes with a guide to the museums and establishments associated with the programme and a map of the city.

Points of sale:• Online: Madrid tourism website www.esmadrid.com and onwww.neoturismo.com• By phone: 902 877 996.• In Madrid: tourist offices, travel agencies, etc.

Further information:www.madridcard.com

San Lorenzo de El Escorial

59 kms from Madrid and 54 kms from SegoviaThe Herrerian-style monastery, commissioned by King Phillip II, is of great architectural importance.

Tourist Office: C/ Grimaldi, 2. Tfno. 91 890 53 13.www.sanlorenzoturismo.orgwww.madridcard.com


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AROUND MADRID


Buitrago de Lozoya

76 kms from Madrid. Buitrago is home to an extensive network of drovers' roads, thus revealing the historical importance of this area in the transhumance system that to a great extent has governed the agricultural economy of Spain's central plateau since the Late Middle Ages.Tourist Office: 91 868 00 56.

La Sierra Norte (Northern Mountain Range) is one of the most beautiful areas in the Autonomous Community of Madrid. The 42 towns that make up this area have adapted to modern change without renouncing the traditional spirit of yesteryear. www.sierranorte.com Tfno. 91 689 88 04.

Major features: Peñalara Natural Park (the highest point in the Community, at 2,428 metres),The Montejo Beech Forest -one of Europe's southernmost beech forests- and the El Paular Monastery (the first Carthusian monastery in the Kingdom of Castile).

Alcalá de Henares

33 kms from Madrid.The major attractions are the former university building (Plaza de San


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‘San Lorenzo de El Escorial’


Diego), which now houses the vice-chancellor’s office, the Palacio Arzobispal (Archbishop’s Palace), the Convento de las Bernardas (Convent of St. Bernard), the Iglesia de los Jesuitas (Jesuit Church) and the Convento de los Filipenses (Convent of the Philippians).Tourist Office: Plaza de Cervantes: 91 889 694. Plaza de los

Santos Niños: 91 881 06 34:http://www.turismoalcala.com/

Chinchón

45 kms from Madrid. Must-sees include the irregular-shaped Plaza Mayor (main square) surrounded by two- and three-storey buildings with continuous balconies, and the 17th centuryConvento de las Clarisas (Convent of St. Clare).Tourist Office: Chinchón City Council, Plaza Mayor 3, 1ª pta.www.ciudad-chinchon.com

Aranjuez

47 kms from Madrid. Visitors should see the Palacio Real (Royal Palace)and its gardens and the Casa del Labrador (shooting box formerly used by the Spanish Royal Family). Tourist Office: 91 891 04 27. The tren de la Fresa, a tourist train, runs from May to October. Tel. 902 228 822.

Segovia

90 kms from Madrid. Segovia boasts a several kilometre-long Roman aqueduct. The cathedral and citadel are two of the town’s most beautiful buildings. Segovia is also famous for its food, especially lamb and roast suckling pig. Tourist Office tel.: 92 146 29 14.http://www.turismodesegovia.com/

The cathedral or El Alcos, La Granja de San Ildefonso

11 kms from Segovia and 90 kms from Madrid. Royal Seat of La Granja de San Ildefonso, a majestic and impressive palace commissioned in 1721. Real Fábrica de


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Cristales de La Granja (Royal Glass Factory).Tourist Office: Paseo del Pocillo, s/n. Tel. 676 45 73 95.www.lagranja-valsain.com

El Paular Monastery

95 kms from Madrid. Its construction began in 1390, making it the first Carthusian monastery in the Kingdom of Castille. It is a treasure of undeniable value embracing different styles such as Gothic and Baroque. Visits are possible.

Its garden is especially worthy of note, where different architectural elements are accompanied by sculptures, hydraulic works, and the vegetable element itself. www.monaterioelpaular.com

Ávila

115 kms from Madrid. Ávila is surrounded by approximately 2.5 kms of city walls. The city’s nine gates are framed by impressive towers. Ávila Tourist Office tel.: 902 10 21 21. http://www.avilaturismo.com/

Toledo

70 kms from Madrid. Toledo is well known for its cathedral, its synagogue housing a famous painting by El Greco, and the citadel. Tourist Office: Puerta de Bisagra, s/n 92 522 08 43.www.castillalamancha.es/turismo/

Illescas

32 kms from Madrid According to the legend, it was founded in 2621 BCby Greek colonists, who named it Ilarcuris.http://www.turismocastillalamancha.com/artecultura/monumentos/illescas/ayuntamiento-de-illescas/


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Religious worship

Spain’s cultural diversity is clearly evidenced by the different religions practiced in the city. Virtually all major religions are represented in Madrid. The best option for finding a local place of worship is the Internet. Several churches (mainly Protestant) offer services in English and the majority of Catholic churches offer children’s Masses. Catholic churches usually also offer catechism services for children, especially on Sundays. Although the majority of churches in Madrid are Catholic, there are also Protestant churches, non-denominational Christian churches, synagogues, mosques and even a Buddhist temple.

Some useful websites:Catholic churches: www.misas.org www.asambleacristiana.comSynagogue: www.sinagoga-madrid.comMosques: www.webislam.comProtestant churches: www.protestantedigital.comBuddhist temple: www.luzserena.net/eltemplo.htm

Sigüenza

32 kms from Madrid, a historic-artistic site. Remarkable Castle, Cathedral and Main Square are worth a visit. Tourist Office: Paseo de la Alameda. Ermita del Humilladero, s/n. Tel. 949 34 70 07. http://www.siguenza.es/siguenza/es/turismo/turismo_home.php

Manzanares Real57 kms from Madrid. Lake of Santillana and a “must see” castle.Tourist Office: Pza. del Castillo, s/n.http://www.manzanareselreal.org/turismo/Lodging information: www.ruralka.com


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Green Madrid

Madrid is a green city, as shown by its 250,000 hectares of parks andgardens and the 248,000 trees lining its streets.

The main parks are Casa de Campo, Parque del Retiro, Parque del Oeste, Juan Carlos I and Dehesa de la Villa. Of these, the most popular is El

Retiro, whose name (“retreat”) reflects its past as the residence of the Royal Family. The most modern park is Parque Lineal del Río Manzanares, and the largest is Casa del Campo. The Real Jardín Botánico (Royal Botanical Gardens) is of great historical interest.

Useful addresses:

BARAJAS district

• Parque Juan Carlos I: This park, which was completed in 1992 and created by the architects Emilio Esteras and Luis Esteban, is containedwithin the triangle formed by the Alameda de Osuna, the M-40 and theexpress road from the M-40 to Barajas Airport. Popular activities include fishing, remote-controlled boats and kite flying. Glorieta de Don Juan de Borbón, s/n. Metro: Campo de las Naciones. Tel: 91 72100 79.

• Parque El Capricho (Alameda de Osuna). Covering just 14 hectares, El Capricho parkland (18th century) is the jewel in the crown of Madrid’s parkland. It represents a mixture of Baroque features and landscaping concepts. Address: Paseo de la Alameda de Osuna. Metro Canillejas.Buses 101 and 105.

CENTRO district

• Campo del Moro: This area was used by the Moors as a campsite for their troops when besieging the city. King Philip IV later transformed it into a breathtaking example of a 19th century garden.Paseo Virgen del Puerto, s/n. Metro/Cercanías: Príncipe Pío.


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• Jardines de Sabatini:To the north of the Royal Palace, these gardens are named after Sabatini, who constructed the Royal Palace stables that once stood on the site. Calle Bailén, s/n. Metro: Ópera.

• Palacio de Cristal de Arganzuela: This park contains a large greenhouse.Pº de la Chopera, 10. Metro: Legazpi. Tel.: 91 588 61 37.

CHAMARTÍN district

• Parque de Berlín: With a surface area of five hectares, this park features monuments dedicated to Beethoven and Álvaro Iglesias, as well as a trade fair enclosure and an auditorium.

FUENCARRAL district

• Monte de El Pardo: This park in northern Madrid covers 16,000 hectares. The royal family once used the park for hunting, especiallyduring the reign of King Charles IV. The park has been declared anational heritage site. Carretera Coruña km. 7.

• Parque Norte: This park features 35 hectares with sports facilities,open to the public. Monforte de Lemos, s/n.

MONCLOA district

• Casa de Campo: Its 1800 hectares and its proximity to Madrid have made Casa de Campo the city’s main park. King Philip II commissioned the park as a hunting site in 1560, and in 1931 it became a public park. The scrubland has been preserved quite well, as can be seen by the many species of trees and plants, including holm oaks, chestnut trees, banana trees, ash trees, pines, and willows. After rowing a boat on the man made lake, visitors can have a refreshing drink at one of the many stands, while enjoying one of the best views of Madrid. A special way of reaching Casa de Campo is to take the Teleférico (cable car) that departs from Paseo del Pintor Rosales and offers a unique bird’s eye view of this part of the city. The Casa de Campo houses the Madrid Zoo and its wide variety of animal species, as well as the Madrid Amusement Park. Avda. de Portugal s/n. Metro: Lago. Tel: 91 571 12 36.


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• Parque de la Dehesa de la Villa: Alongside the Manzanares River, this park is home to a great many stone pine trees and holm oaks, as well as almond and cork trees. There is an exceptional sunset view of the northeast of the capital from La Dehesa . Metro: Francos Rodríguez.

• Parque del Oeste: Located between the La Coruña motorway, the Ciudad Universitaria and the Moncloa district, Parque del Oeste is another of Madrid’s largest parks. The park was promoted by Madrid mayor Alberto Aguilera, who in 1906 asked the landscape gardener Cecilio Rodríguez to design an area where people could stroll and rest. The park contains unique features such as the Rosaleda (rose garden), where an international rose competition is held every year. Paseo del Pintor Rosales, s/n. Metro: Moncloa.

RETIRO district

• Jardín Botánico: (Botanical Gardens). A must-see. Plaza de Murillo, 2.Metro: Atocha, Atocha-Renfe, Banco de España. Tel: 91 420 30 17.


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‘Casa de Campo’


• Parque de El Buen Retiro (Retiro Park): In the very heart of the city, the Retiro park dates back to the reign of King Philip II. The park features an enormous lake where visitors can hire rowing boats, broad promenades and a wealth of botanical elements.Plaza. de la Independencia s/n. Metro: Retiro. Tel: 91 571 12 36.

SALAMANCA district• Quinta y Parque de Fuente del Berro: Purchased by the Madrid City Council in 1948, this park has a surface area of 13 hectares. Its main characteristics are its size and beauty and how well it is maintained. Enrique D’Almonte, 1. Metro: O’Donnell.


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Retiro Park


Shopping

SAN BLAS district• Quinta de los Molinos: Quinta de los Molinos represents an interestingexercise in the integration of fruit crops (almonds, olives) in a large web of tree-lined paths and open spaces where the density of the tall bushes allows natural life to proliferate. This park was inspired by the great model of recreational parkland – the Jardines del Príncipe, inAranjuez – and was until recently in private hands. C/. Alcalá, 527.Metro Suances.

USERA District• Parquel Lineal del Rio Manzanares: It includes a natural area vertebrate by the Manzanares River, from its intersection with the Calle 30 to the mouth to the Jarama River. Although it has been minimally urbanized to the north, today it is an archeological and natural area for Madrid. In addition to the Usera district, the Park stretches to other districts of Madrid, and later on it continues to other municipalities of the Community.

Madrid is undoubtedly southern Europe’s principal shopping destination, thanks to the immense variety of its more than 50,000 shops. Madrid has everything from leading national and international luxury labels to small traditional shops and from conventional market wares to the latest trendy items.

• La Milla de Oro. (the Golden Mile). The Salamanca area is the most chic, glamorous and desirable area of the city. On the Ortega y Gasset, Serrano, Claudio Coello and Lagasca streets shoppers will find the outposts of major designers such as Hermès, Dolce & Gabanna, Chanel, Giorgio Armani, Valentino, Louis Vuitton, Loewe, Adolfo Domínguez, Roberto Verino, Victorio&Lucchino and Elena Benarroch. These streets are also home to prestigious jewellers such as Suárez, Brooking, Carrera y Carrera, Wempe, Cartier and Bvlgari. ABC Serrano and Jardín de Serrano, two prestigious shopping centres, conlude the Golden Mile.


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• Puerta del Sol. This traditional shopping area features some of the oldest shops in Madrid, which remain faithful to their style and offer unique products. Manufacturers of fans, umbrellas and Manilla shawls, cakes, confectionery, capes and hats, guitars and canes keep shop in this area.

• El Rastro. The Rastro is an outdoor market to suit all tastes in the Plaza de Cascorro. This market, which dates back to medieval times, is one of Madrid's oldest and yet also one of its most modern. It is found in one of the city’s most populous areas. Visitors soak up the local atmosphere while strolling among the crowds along the Rastro streets.A visit to El Rastro is essential for anyone’s first Sunday in the city, and the people of Madrid are in the habit to pay a visit on public holiday mornings too. New and second-hand clothes, costume jewellery and souvenirs of Madrid can be found in the market stalls, along with auctioned items


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Shopping


and antiques. To conclude a visit to the Rastro, nothing compares to an aperitif in the area’s many bars and taverns.

• Chueca y Fuencarral, modernity itself. Calle Hortaleza and Calle Fuencarral feature modern Madrid’s most original shops. International and national clothes shops including Custo Barcelona, Adolfo Domínguez, Jean Paul Gaultier, Dolce & Gabbana and Calvin Klein can be found along these central streets, while a wide range of footwear is concentrated on Augusto Figueroa street. This area is also home to Fuencarral Market, one of the most cutting-edge and dynamic places in the city.

The majority of shops are open Monday to Friday from 9:30/10:00hrs to 13:30/14:00hrs and from 16:30/17:00hrs to 20:30hrs, and on Saturdays from 9:30 to 14:00hrs. In the centre many shops do not close for lunch and some are open on bank holidays, except on December 25th, January 1st and 6th and May 1st.

Department stores and shopping centres do not close at lunchtime andare normally open longer than smaller shops: from 10:00 to 22:00hrs, Monday to Saturday. Shops are also normally open on the first Sunday ofeach month.

Personal shopping services for executives are becoming more prevalent. The service consists of a personalised route to achieve maximum time efficiency. The best way to contact these services is through the reception desk at hotels.

Payment is normally in cash or with a credit or debit card, for which a passport or other identity document is required.


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PAYMENT


Festival

Sales generally start in the second week of January and continue through to the end of February, and on July 1st through to the end of August.

Madrid’s traditional celebrations, which in recent years have been recovered by the citizens with the help of the City Council, undoubtedly represent one of the city’s greatest attractions. These celebrations, which take place in the streets and city squares, are extremely popular.

A town crier in the Plaza Mayor or Plaza de la Villa announces the start of the festivities for San Isidro, Christmas, Carnival and Easter. The inauguration usually involves a celebrity (actor, singer, athlete,etc.) and is attended by thousands.

• New Year starts with a major spectacle. At midnight, all eyes in Spainare on the Puerta del Sol clock, when revellers ring out the old year and ring in the new by eating 12 lucky grapes, one at each chime of the clock.

• On January 5th, the traditional Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos (Twelfth Night Procession) in the Central District represents the arrival of the Three Kings to the city bringing presents for the children.

• Easter. Especially during Holy Thursday and Holy Friday, thestreets are filled with locals to witness the religious processions.

• May 2nd. Fiesta de la Comunidad de Madrid (Community of Madrid Public Holiday). This holiday commemorates the uprising of the people of Madrid against the invading French troops in 1808, with events taking place in Plaza del 2 de Mayo in the Malasaña area.


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SALES


• May 15th. Fiestas de San Isidro (Festival of Saint Isidore). San Isidro Labrador (Saint Isidore the Labourer) worked on land that is now known as the Praderas de San Isidro. According to the legend, while the saint was sleeping, an angel finished ploughing his fields. The festival includes recitals, concerts, competitions and exhibitions in addition to a major bullfighting festival.

• June 13th. San Antonio de la Florida (Saint Anthony of Padua). It is still quite customary for young women to visit the Ermita de San Antonio (Chapel of Saint Anthony) to ask the saint for a boyfriend.

• August 15th. Fiestas de la Virgen de la Paloma (Festival of the Virgin ofthe Dove). The Verbena de la Paloma (streetparty) is one of the city’s most traditional festivals. It is resplendent with elements of Madrid’s culture: men and women don the traditional dress of chulapos, consisting of Manila shawls for the women and typical suits for the men, and the city is decorated with lights and coloured lanterns. Traditional barrel organs can be heard and the Chotis dance is performed.

• September is the main month for theatre, cinema and show premieres. This month also features the Festivales de Otoño (Autumn Festival) and the Fiesta de la Melonera (Virgin of the Port Festival), held in Arganzuela, which dates back to the 18th century.

• In December, nativity scenes and Christmas trees are on display and on sale in the Plaza Mayor, which is decorated with lights and colours to bring out the charm and sentiments of the festive season. References: www.munimadrid.es www.guiadelocio.com


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Different people, different nights, and innumerable possibilities aboundunder the same Madrid moon.

Madrid’s cafés, bars and nightclubs are busiest at the weekends and on the nights before public holidays. Many different atmospheres can be found within the wide variety of nightlife areas in the city.

Moncloa: This area is popular with students due to its proximity to the residence halls and university buildings. Location: C/ Isaac Peral.Metro: Moncloa / Bus: 1, 46From 19:00 to 3:00hrs

Castellana-Recoletos: This area is replete with terrazas (terrace bars).The atmosphere is more refined and the average age is over 30. Location: Paseo de la Castellana. Metro: Banco de España-Núñez de Balboa / Bus: 40, 27. From 17:00 to 4:00hrs, May-September.

Alonso Martínez: This area is home to tapas bars, taverns and livemusic bars. It is popular with young people from 18 to 28 years of age.Location: Plaza Alonso Martínez. Metro: Alonso Martínez / Bus: 7, 40.From 20:00 to 5:00hrs

Bilbao: This area is close to Alonso Martínez and is also home to manybars and taverns, plus several cinemas.Location: Glorieta de Bilbao. Metro: Bilbao / Bus: 3. From 20:00 to 3:00hrs


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Huertas-Santa Ana: This area has the highest concentration and widest variety of bars and tapa bars. It is popular with people over 28. Location: Plaza Santa Ana. Metro: Sevilla / Bus: 20, 51 From 20:00 to 3:00hrs

Chueca: This area is mainly home to gay bars and nightclubs. Location:Plaza de Chueca. Metro: Chueca / Bus: 40. From 22:00 to 5:00hrs

References: www.munimadrid.es www.esmadrid.comwww.guiadelocio.com www.webmadrid.com www.madridamano.com


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Santa Ana Square


Music and shows

As the capital of a country with a rich festive and cultural tradition,Madrid offers a wide variety of leisure opportunities, including excellent auditoriums for lovers of opera, zarzuela, classical music anddance. Theatre fans can choose between classical and more avantgardeperformances, while cinema-goers can enjoy the Filmoteca Nacional (National Film Library) and the numerous original-version cinemas.

The opera season runs from October to June and the performances are staged at the Teatro Real (Royal Theatre). The theatre’s annual programme also includes dance, zarzuela and classical music.

Teatro Real: Pl. de Oriente, s/n. Metro: OperaTel.: 91 516 06 60. Venta por teléfono: 902 24 48 48.www.teatro-real.com

Zarzuela (light Spanish opera) is typical of Madrid and dates back to the 19th century. The season runs from September to November and is centred at the Teatro Lírico Nacional de la Zarzuela (National Zarzuela Lyrical Theatre).Teatro de la Zarzuela: C/ Jovellanos, 4. Metro: Banco de EspañaTel.: 91 524 54 00. http://teatrodelazarzuela.mcu.esTeatro de Madrid: Avda. de la Ilustración, s/n. Metro: Barrio del Pilar,Herrera Oria. Tel.: 91 730 17 50.

Multiple events, including the Ciclo de la Música Clásica (Classical Music Season), Conciertos de Ciclos Monográficos (seasons devoted to a particular composer), Temporada de Música Clásica (Classical Music


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OPERA

ZARZUELA

CLASSICAL MUSIC


Season), Semana de la Música Antigua (Time-Honoured Music Week), and the Temporada de la Orquesta Sinfónica de Radiotelevisión Española (Spanish Radio and Television Symphony Orchestra Season), are held at the city’s most emblematic locations, such as the Auditorio Nacional

(National Auditorium)http://www.auditorionacional.mcu.es/programacion/portada, the Fundación Juan March (Juan March Foundation) http://www.march.es, the Teatro Monumental (Monumental Theatre) and many churches.

Both jazz and rock are present in Madrid’s festivals, at a range of indoor and outdoor locations around the city. The San Juan Evangelista school organises the city’s International Jazz Festival, while Rock in Río http://www.rockinriomadrid.es/ is a major event held in Arganda del Rey.

In addition to Madrid’s traditional flamenco venues, places such as Cardamomo and Casa Patas offer nuevo flamenco. Café Chinitas, Las

Tablas and El Corral de la Pacheca are well-known flamenco restaurants.Further information: www.esflamenco.com

Madrid’s love of musicals and their popularity, particulary amongst young people, is reflected in the wide variety of shows at the main theatres on the Gran Vía.

Many of Spain’s national classical theatre companies are located in Madrid. With its 57 theatres and rehearsal halls, Madrid has spent the last decade keeping its alternative theatre scene alive (Sala Olimpia, Sala

Cuarta Pared, Sala Pradillo, etc.) through festivals, support for its youth theatre and children’s matinees, and the mise en scène of a new generation of local playwrights.


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JAZZ & ROCK

FLAMENCO

MUSICALS

THEATRE



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Madrid cultural and artistic live is very intense, with a top-level and varied programme in all arts

In addition to the Filmoteca Nacional (National Film Library) and ten cinemas offering original-version films, the areas where the most cinemas are to be found are Gran Vía and Bilbao. The majority have several screens and some offer midnight sessions.

Further information: www.teatromadrid.comwww.teatrosdemadrid.com

CINEMA


Further information:www.guiadelocio.eswww.lanetro.comwww.descubremadrid.comwww.entradas.com

The principal bullfights are held at the Las Ventas bullring during the San

Isidro festival and are a must-see for bullfighting fans. Madrid is also home to the Palacio Vistalegre, which, in addition to bullfights, is also a venue for all kinds of events, including sports, concerts, and galas.

The bullfighting season runs from March to October.The Plaza Monumental de Toros de las Ventas bullring is located at Calle Alcalá, 237 and is accessible by Metro (Ventas) and several bus routes.

Further information: http://www.las-ventas.com

FootballSantiago Bernabéu Stadium. Built in 1947, this stadium is home to the Real Madrid Football Club. Tours of the stadium are available and the stadium is open every day of the year, except December 25th and January 1st. Opening hours depend on the match schedule. Further information:www.realmadrid.com Tel. 91 398 43 70.

Vicente Calderón Stadium. Opened in 1966, this stadium is home to theAtlético de Madrid Football Club. The stadium museum displays the club’s history and trophies and is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 11:00 to 19:00hrs. Tel. 91 365 09 31. www.clubatleticodemadrid.com


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BULLFIGHTING

SPORTS


Other strongly supported football team in Madrid is the Rayo Vallecano de Madrid, www.rayovallecano.es

BasketballThe city’s two main teams, Real Madrid and Estudiantes, play at the Caja

Magica and the Palacio de los Deportes, respectively. Games schedulesand ticket purchases are available at www.realmadrid.com ywww.clubestudiantes.com

Motor sportThe Jarama Circuit, located 27 km from Madrid, plays host to all typesof motor sport events. The Circuit also has a Centre for Young Driversand a Driving School. www.jarama.org

AthleticsThere is a long tradition for athletics in Madrid. Many sports centresoffer the majority of disciplines.


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Inside Santiago Bernabeu


Further information about events and sports centres is available on theFederación Madrileña de Atletismo (Madrid Athletics Federation) website: www.atletismomadrid.com

BoxingBoxing events are held practically every night at gyms in and around Madrid. Information about events and competitions is available on the Federación Española de Boxeo (Spanish Boxing Federation) website:www.feboxeo.com

General sportsCurrently Madrid has approximately 40 sports centres in and around the city.

These facilities offer intense sporting activity, and hundreds of thousands of people practice their favourite sports there as members of federations or sports clubs or with friends and family.

The Madrid City Council promotes sports for disabled individuals byoffering a special municipal card providing free access to all the city'ssporting facilities.

Further information about Madrid's sporting facilities is available on:www.munimadrid.es/deporte


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Activities for kids

Madrid always has something to offer to children. The city and its surrounding towns host a wide variety of tourist, leisure and cultural activities at numerous places of interest with times to suit all.

The Madrid City Council website (www.munimadrid.es) features amonthly agenda of activities for kids, including films for children,theatre, puppet shows, music, sports, camping, circus, magic shows, etc.

Madrid planetarium

The planetarium is the city’s most popular astronomy and science centre for school children and grown ups. The centre is locatedat the Avda. del Planetario, 16. http://www.planetmad.es/

Casa de Campo Amusement Park

Located in the Casa de Campo Park, this Amusement Park is one of the largest in Europe. The park can easily be reached by public transport:Metro Batán and bus lines 33 and 65. http://www.parquedeatracciones.es

Warner Bros Amusement Park

This Amusement Park is themed around the cinema and Warner Bros’ famous cartoon characters. San Martín de la Vega, km 22 on N-IV (Andalusia). Tel.: 91 821 12 34.www.parquewarner.com

Xanadú Leisure Park

The Xanadú Leisure Park is located in Arroyomolinos (23 km from Madrid)


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Faunia Natural Park

The Faunia nature and biodiversity theme park has a significant sample of terrestrial ecosystems and virtual challenges for children. The park is at the Avenida Comunidades, 28. Metro Valdebernardo and bus lines 8, 71, and 130. Further information: http://www.faunia.es

Madrid Zoo- Aquarium

Located in the Casa de Campo Park, very close to the Amusement Park. The Zoo-Aquarium can be reached by Metro (Batán and Casa de Campo stops) and bus line 33. Further information: http://www.zoomadrid.com

Aquopolis Madrid

This water park, with a variety of fun slides, is located just 30 minutes from Madrid at the Avda. de la Dehesa, in Villanueva de la Cañada. Bus 503 from Plaza de España. Further information: www.aquopolis.es

Dreams-ice Palace

This shopping centre and ice rink in the centre of Madrid (C/ Silvano, 77) can be reached by Metro (Canillas stop) and bus lines 73, 112, 120, 122 and N3.Further information: www.palaciodehielo.com

Teleférico de Madrid (Cable car)This cable car offers bird’s-eye views of Madrid while travelling over the Parque del Oeste, the Rosaleda, the Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida, the Egyptian temple of Debod, the Palacio de Oriente and many other landmarks. Located on the Pº del Pintor Rosales s/n. Tickets can be booked by calling 91 541 74 50. y 91 541 11 18. Further information: www.teleferico.com


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Museo de Cera (Wax Museum)The museum features life-size models of famous people created in waxfollowing a laborious study of their measurements. Located at the Paseo de Recoletos, 41. Metro Colón and bus lines 14, 150, 27, 45, 5 and 53.Further information:http://www.museoceramadrid.com

Museo del Ferrocarril (Railway Museum)This railway museum (Pº Delicias 61) is one of the largest historic railroad collections of Europe. Metro Delicias and bus lines 8,19, 45, 47, 59, 85, and 86.Further information: http://www.museodelferrocarril.org

Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (National Museum of Natural Sciences)The exhibition halls of the Museum of Natural Sciences are home to extinct and living species of animals and plants. Located at the Calle José Gutiérrez Abascal, 2. Metro Gregorio Marañón and bus lines 12, 14, 45,147, 150, 27, 40 and 7. Further information: www.mncn.csis.es


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10


OTHER INFORMATION

Consumer protection

Security forces

Safety tips

Firearms

Pets

Regulation and tips

Vaccines

Veterinary clinics

Canine residences


Public holidays

Common courtesies

Consumers in Spain are protected by laws in force throughout the European Union.

Consumers can be sure that the highest food safety regulations are being adhered to in Madrid, thanks to the strict laws regulating food preparation and transformation, the use of colourants and additives, and food sales. European Union legislation on food labelling helps consumers to know exactly what they are purchasing. Labels must clearly show all ingredients, including genetically-modified ingredients, colourants, preservatives, sweeteners and other chemical additives. There are also regulations on which products can be labelled “organic.”

Supermarkets must indicate the unit price of products – the price per kilo or per litre – in order to facilitate price comparisons.

Cosmetic products, such as sun creams, must indicate how long they can be used once opened. Consumers should look for the open container symbol.

Misleading or false advertising is forbidden and EU legislation offers protection against certain clauses in contracts regarding organised trips and timeshare as well as unfair competition.

Madrid City Council’s OMIC (Oficina Municipal de Información al

Consumidor – Municipal Office for Consumer Information) is a free consumer information and guidance service, which also mediates in conflicts arising between consumers and companies in an effort to reach an amicable solution.

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Consumer protection

10. Other informationLIVING IN MADRID. THE EXPAT’S HANDBOOK

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There are several security forces in Spain:

a) State Security Forces, which report to the National Government. These include the Cuerpo Nacional de Policía (National Police Force) and the Guardia Civil (Civil Guard). Their mission is to safeguard people’s rights and freedoms and to guarantee security.

The National Police (www.policia.es) operates in provincial capitals and in larger towns and cities.

The Civil Guard (www.guardiacivil.org) operates in the rest of the national territory and at sea.

Each force also has a series of responsibilities throughout Spain. For example, the National Police issues national identity documents and passports, controls border crossings of Spaniards and foreigners, and is responsible for foreign status, refugee status and asylum, extradition, deportation, emigration and immigration, drug-related crimes, etc. The Civil Guard has other areas of responsibility, including arms and explosives, traffic, transit and transport on roads between towns, tax-related offences and contraband.

Security forces

Consumers requiring information or wishing to make a complaint can do so by mail, telephone, fax, or in person (appointments can be made by calling 91 211 1851). The central office is located at the C/ Gran Vía, 24, 28013 Madrid. Telephone: 010. Fax: 91 588 83 58. There are also OMICs at the local council boards (juntas municipales).


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Although Spain is a very safe country, as in any country, it is advisable to take minimum safety measures. For example, visitors and residents should avoid walking solitary or in poorly-lit areas, never carry more money than needed when going out, and be vigilant in crowded places, public transport and department stores.

As safety experts indicate, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. More safety advice is available on the Ministry of the Interior website: http://www.mir.es/SGACAVT/seguridad/consejos/index.html

Safety tips

10. Other information

b) Autonomous Community Police Forces. Madrid does not have its own police force; the only autonomous communities that do are Catalonia and the Basque Country.

c) City Council Police Forces, i.e., local police, which are responsible for security in public places and urban traffic.

The Madrid local police force (www.munimadrid.es/policia) acts only within Madrid, except in emergency situations and when so required by the competent authorities. This force orders, signals and directs traffic in the city, provides assistance in the event of accidents and disasters, collaborates with State Security Forces in demonstrations, and maintains order in large crowds. The force also carries out crime prevention measures.


The free number to call in case of an emergency is 112. The 112 emergency number is for emergency calls for accidents, fires and rescue, security, and civil protection, regardless of the public organisation that provides the service.

The National Police has a telephone number for reporting crimes (902 102 112), which is available in several languages. Crimes can also be reported online at https://www.policia.es/denuncias/

The Madrid City Council, in conjunction with the State government office in Madrid, has launched the Servicio de Atención al Turista Extranjero

(Foreign Tourist Service - SATE) to support visitors and to facilitate the processes and information required in the event of an occurrence requiring police intervention (lost or stolen belongings, etc.) This service is staffed by a multi-lingual specialist team (English, French, Japanese and Russian). Its main task is to provide personalised psychological, linguistic and legal assistance to foreign tourists subject to incidents during their stay in Madrid. The service helps to report crimes, handles legal procedures, cancels bank cards and credit documents, contacts embassies and consulates, and processes lost property paperwork. The SATE service is provided at the Comisaría Centro de la Dirección General

de la Policía (Central Police Headquarters of the Directorate General of Police) (C/ Leganitos, 19) and is available year-round from 9:00 to 22:00 hrs.

In August 2006, the Madrid City Council implemented a new initiative to improve the safety of foreign tourists: a 32-language simultaneous translation service available at the Oficinas Móviles de Atención al

Ciudadano de la Policía Municipal (Municipal Police Mobile Services Offices). This service removes the barrier between police officers and visitors, and tourists that are victims of a crime can provide details and ask questions in their own language.

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In Spain, specific authorisation from the Civil Guard is required for carrying or owning any firearm. The Civil Guard is the only agency responsible for firearms and explosives in the country.

Arms are classified into seven categories, taking into account their characteristics, level of danger and intended use. Owning and using arms belonging to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 7th.2 and 7th.3 categories, requires a firearms licence.

Complete information on the requirements, documentation, and training tests for requesting the licence are available on the Civil Guard website: www.guardiacivil.org or at Ministerio del Interior: www.mir.es

Firearms

Pets


Certain health and identification regulations must be met for the transfer of pets to Spain. At times the entry of certain animals, mainly exotic animals and birds, may be temporarily restricted due to health reasons.

Spain applies the same regulations for bringing animals into the country as the other European Union countries. These regulations state that all pets must be accompanied by a veterinary certificate or pet passport, depending on the species. Dogs, cats and ferrets must comply with a series of health and identification measures before entering Spain. These measures may vary depending on the country of origin. In the majority of cases, pets must have been inoculated against rabies.

REGULATIONS AND TIPS


Endangered species may not be brought into Spain as pets, due to international agreements on the protection of endangered species.

Before starting a journey, it is advisable to ask accommodation and transport companies whether they allow animals and the conditions they might apply.

The following requirements apply to the most common pets (cats and dogs), once they are in Spain:

• The animal must be identified with a microchip. Further information: www.colvema.org/identificacion-perros-gatos.asp• The pet must have a valid European Union “pet passport” for further travel. Further information: www.colvema.org/PDF/Pasaporte_veterinario.pdf• Civil liability insurance must be contracted for dangerous dogs. Further information: www.colvema.org/responsabilidad-civil.asp

Helpful tips: - Pets must be on a leash and wear a muzzle.- They must travel in suitable cages.- Not all lodgings admit animals.- The majority of restaurants and other public establishments do not admit pets. Enquiries should be made beforehand to avoid surprises. - The maximum number of animals that can be brought into the country without being considered a commercial operation varies according to the species. - Lost pets can be reported to the veterinary clinic that fitted the identity chip or to the Animal Vaccination and Identification Database at 91 564 54 59.


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VACCINESAs rabies still exists in Spain, the majority of veterinarians recommend vaccinating dogs before they enter the country. Dogs should also be inoculated against leptospirosis, parvovirus, hepatitis and distemper. Cats should be vaccinated against feline gastroenteritis and typhoid.

VETERINARY CLINICSSpanish veterinarians are qualified professionals. Emergencies are dealt with at veterinary clinics, many of which offer a 24-hour service.

KENNELS (Canine Residences)Many kennels are available in Madrid. Owners wanting to board pets over summer holidays should be sure to book well in advance. Animals left at kennels must be vaccinated.

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Dog, man’s best friend



Owners wishing to travel with their pet will find that many hotels do accept animals. Further information can be found at:www.onlydog.com and www.perros.com

Further information on health aspects, vaccines, insurance, and registration, along with general tips about pets is available on the website of the Colegio Oficial de Veterinarios de Madrid (Madrid Official Veterinarians Association):

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112

091

092

063

085

112

900 123 505

061

902 222 292

91 562 04 20

91 479 93 61

112

91 527 95 90

EMERGENCIES

NATIONAL POLICE

MUNICIPAL POLICE

CIVIL GUARD

FIRE BRIGADE

SAMUR-CIVIL PROTECTION

TRAFFIC

NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE

EMERGENCIES

RED CROSS EMERGENCIES

POISONING

AMBULANCE

24-HOUR PHARMACIES

LOST PROPERTY


* “Línea Madrid” is a municipality label that identifies and integrates the three channels use by Madrid City Council in order to attend the citizens: Phone 010, Citizens Attention Offices ans www.madrid.es

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RADIOTAXI

TELETAXI

91 405 1213

91 4055500

91 371 21 31

902 501 130

TOURIST BOARD

MADRID CITY COUNCIL

INFORMATION LINE ”LINEA

MADRID”

COMMUNITY OF MADRID

INFORMATION LINE

COMMUNITY OF MADRID

MADRID - BARAJAS AIRPORT

RENFE RAILWAY

RAILWAYS STATIONS

EMT (PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION)

MADRID METRO

91 588 16 36

010*

012

91 580 42 60

902 404704

91 305 83 43

91 305 83 44

91 305 86 56

902 240 202

902 432 343

902 507 850

902 444 403


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Public holidays


January 6th Epiphany

Variable* Holy Thursday

Variable* Good Friday

May 1st International Labour Day

May 2nd Autonomous Community of Madrid Public Holiday

May 15th San Isidro. Holiday in the city of Madrid

August 15th Assumption

October 12th Spanish national holiday Columbus Day

November 1st All Saints’ Day

November 9th Virgen de la Almudena Holiday in the city of Madrid

December 6th Day of the Spanish Constitution

December 8th Immaculate Conception

December 25th Christmas Day

Thirteen days a year, that change depending which ones are on a Saturday or Sunday. In any case, those listed are holidays every year.

*Consult the calendar



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In Spain it is common courtesy to use the formal pronoun Usted when addressing someone older. However, as customs are changing, this is not always the case. Although these “courtesy rules” are somewhat outdated, some supporters of etiquette may be offended if more colloquial language is used. As a general rule, the best option is, when in doubt, use formal language; if it is not required, the other party will let you know.

Common courtesies

Common courtesies


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Fax: (+34) 91 480 24 40

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