Your visa is given through our university partner (University Europea del Atlántico) and you will be able to work teaching English once you have completed your legal appointments, whilst you are completing the Spanish and Advanced TEFL modules throughout the year.
By the end of your TEFL course: prepare for your job search
Our job support includes CV preparation, guidance on the different teaching opportunities available and advice on assessing job offers. We’ll circulate your CV to our network of employers and add you to our job alerts mailing list to get the ball rolling. Start applying actively, respond promptly to employers and plan a timetable that allows for your ongoing studies and travel between classes.
100% of the qualified teachers who have joined this program have found paid teaching work here in Madrid. We have an extensive network to organize these placements, regardless of your preference to work with children, adults, business or general English.
Finding work and building a suitable timetable takes different amounts of time for each graduate. Your availability, experience, work authorisation and employers’ requirements all affect the process, so allow a financial buffer while you establish yourself.
During your first weeks in Madrid: register your address
Empadronamiento means registering your usual home address with the local council. Arrange this as soon as you have suitable accommodation; you can begin during your initial course rather than waiting until graduation.
In Madrid city, you can apply in person with an appointment or online if you have the required electronic identification. You will need identification, the registration form and evidence that you live at the address by way of a 6+ month signed lease.
Within the applicable first month: apply for your TIE
The TIE is your physical identity card documenting your authorised stay and shows your permission to work. The process involves arranging an appointment at a local police station, preparing your documents, paying the relevant fee and attending in person for fingerprints. Documents normally include the TIE application form, passport, photograph, your enrollment letter, and proof of fee payment. During your first week with us we’ll cover all these points in detail, in the Getting Legal session.
After your appointment, you’ll book a second appointment at the same police station to collect your card; appointment availability and collection times vary.
Throughout the rest of your program: teach, study and stay connected
Alongside your teaching work, you will continue the academic requirements of your program. Our Spanish Culture and Advanced TEFL programs include seven months of evening Spanish classes at LAE Madrid, with three hours of classes per week, alongside online Advanced TEFL study and assessed work. These are required academic components of your program, so include them in your availability when accepting teaching work.
Our team remains available for job guidance and practical support throughout the year. If your work schedule changes or you experience difficulties with your studies or paperwork, contact us early so we can help you identify the next steps.
Around three months before your TIE expires: plan ahead
If you would like to continue studying in Spain, begin discussing your options and preparing documents around three months before your current authorisation expires. This is a recommended planning point, rather than an application deadline. Under the current immigration rules, visa renewals or modifications can be submitted during up to 60 days before your TIE expires and up to 90 days afterwards; aim to prepare and apply for your 2nd year in good time.
