Relocating to a new country is an exciting adventure. But it can also feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating unfamiliar systems, languages, and routines. That’s where Madrid Expat Services comes in. Founded by French expat Audrey Chesneau, the company was born from personal experience and a heartfelt desire to make the transition to life in Madrid easier for others.
Audrey moved to the Spanish capital over 15 years ago, discovering just how challenging relocation can be without the right support. Drawing on her own experiences, she decided to create a service that offers exactly that: practical, personalised, and people-focused guidance for international families, professionals, and entrepreneurs.
In this interview, Audrey shares her journey, what makes Madrid such a special place to live, and how her team helps clients feel at home from day one.
In Conversation With Madrid Expat Services
Can you tell us a little about your personal journey? What brought you from Paris to Madrid 15 years ago, and how did Madrid Expat Services come to life?
I originally moved from Paris to Madrid 15 years ago, thinking it would be a short-term adventure. But the city’s vibrant energy, sunshine, and warm community quickly won me over. As I navigated the usual expat hurdles like finding a home, sorting schools for my kids, and managing paperwork, I realised how valuable tailored, hands-on support could be. That’s why I decided to set up Madrid Expat Services, to make the relocation experience smoother, more human, and more enjoyable.
In your experience, what is it that makes Madrid such a great city for international families and professionals?
Madrid is one of the most welcoming cities I’ve ever known. The locals are warm, open-minded, and genuinely curious about others. The city offers an excellent quality of life, a fantastic climate, low crime rates (which is rare for a capital city), and a rich cultural scene. For families, there are numerous international and bilingual schools, green spaces, and child-friendly activities. For professionals, Madrid has a dynamic ecosystem with a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a growing start-up culture.
Madrid is often described as a city of contrasts: vibrant nightlife, rich cultural traditions, and family-friendly neighbourhoods. How would you describe the lifestyle here for newcomers?
Madrid has a unique charm, with something for everyone. You can enjoy late-night tapas, world-class museums, or a relaxed, family-focused lifestyle all in the same week. Each neighbourhood has its own personality, from calm residential areas to vibrant cosmopolitan hubs. That’s what makes it so easy for expats to find their balance, depending on their rhythm and lifestyle.
Public transport, green spaces, and accessibility are key to city life. How family-friendly would you say Madrid is on a practical, day-to-day level?
Madrid is a very easy city to live in. The transport network is excellent, affordable and well-connected, including for people with reduced mobility. Most metro stations have elevators or ramps, and buses are wheelchair accessible. There are also plenty of green spaces, such as Retiro Park and Madrid Río, ideal for families. Children are welcome everywhere, and the infrastructure is generally well thought-out for them. Whether for medical care, leisure activities or school, everything is accessible. The only slight difficulty is that some pavements are a little narrow, especially for double strollers – but all in all, it’s a very family-friendly and inclusive city.
Would you say that Madrid has a wide variety of school options? What advice do you have for parents on finding the right school for their child?
Absolutely! Madrid offers public, semi-private, private, and international schools with a variety of curricula including American, British, French, and German systems. Many schools offer bilingual or trilingual programmes, which helps expat children integrate more easily. I always advise parents to start their research early, visit schools, speak with other families, and consider their child’s specific needs beyond academics. The right school is where your child feels supported, not just where they achieve good grades.
Please tell us a little more about your services. You offer three different passes: the Discover Pass, the Installation Pass, and the Pro Pass. Can you explain what each one includes and who they’re best suited for?
At Madrid Expat Services, we take a personalised approach. We help with every step of the relocation process, whether for families, professionals, or entrepreneurs. This includes finding housing, handling paperwork like NIE and social security, opening a bank account, school guidance, and community integration. We also assist professionals with business setup and networking. Each pass is designed to support different stages of the move, ensuring our clients receive the right help at the right time.
One of your standout offerings is your emphasis on social integration – from networking dinners to exclusive events. Why is this social side of relocation so important to you?
Because relocation is about more than logistics. It’s also about creating a sense of belonging. I remember the early days of my own move, feeling isolated. That’s why we organise networking events and help clients build both professional and social circles. It makes a huge difference to how people settle in.
Moving countries involves so much more than just finding a place to live. How does Madrid Expat Services help smooth the more complex aspects of relocation – like paperwork, schooling, and healthcare?
We provide full support through each step. For paperwork, we guide clients through obtaining the NIE, social security registration, and bank setup. We accompany them when needed and simplify the process. For schools, we help evaluate all available options and assist with applications. For healthcare, we explain the public and private systems, help with registering for health insurance, find doctors, and understand how everything works. Our aim is to take away the stress so our clients can focus on building their new life.
How do you support families in particular, especially those relocating with children who need to settle into schools and adjust to a new environment?
Supporting families is central to what we do. We advise on schools, help with enrolment, and guide parents on extracurricular options that help their children to integrate. We also provide advice for helping kids adapt emotionally and socially and connect families with local communities. We even help with finding the right neighbourhoods, paediatricians, and family services to ease the transition.
Madrid is known for being cosmopolitan, yet deeply rooted in tradition. How easy is it for newly arrived professionals and families to integrate, both within the expat community and the local Madrileño community?
Madrid strikes a great balance between being cosmopolitan and traditional. Locals are friendly and open, so it’s quite easy to connect. Schools often serve as a bridge to the local culture. Getting involved in community events, festivals, or even a chat at a neighbourhood café helps people settle in. On the professional side, there’s a strong international network, with co-working spaces and events that foster connections. We help our clients find their tribe, both personally and professionally.
You speak three languages and work with a diverse group of clients. How important is language when it comes to settling in Madrid, and how do you support non-Spanish speakers in the transition?
Language can be a real barrier. Most administrative tasks and services are still handled in Spanish, which can be overwhelming for non-speakers. That’s why we offer translation help, accompany clients to appointments, and connect them with trusted language tutors. We also encourage informal practice through social and cultural activities, so our clients feel more confident and empowered from the start.
What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have before moving to Madrid, and how do you help set realistic expectations?
Many expect everything to be quick and easy, but the bureaucracy here can be slow and confusing. Another misconception is that Madrid is a really inexpensive place to live. While transport and dining out can be affordable, rent and school fees can be surprisingly high. Also, not everyone speaks English, which can be a shock. We prepare clients by setting realistic expectations from the start, so they aren’t caught off guard.
The professional landscape in Madrid seems dynamic, especially with the rise of start-ups and co-working spaces. What advice would you give to entrepreneurs or professionals considering a move here?
Do your homework before moving. Understand the legal and tax systems, and get support with setting up your business. Madrid has a fantastic start-up scene and many networking opportunities, but local knowledge is key. Learning some Spanish and understanding local business culture helps build strong relationships. We connect professionals with the right people and resources so they can grow quickly and sustainably.
From flamenco and food to art and architecture, the city is bursting with culture. What are some of your personal favourite spots or hidden gems in Madrid that you love sharing with new arrivals?
I love Lavapiés for its multicultural vibe, art galleries, and food. El Capricho Park is a hidden treasure, ideal for a peaceful walk. For foodies, Mercado de San Miguel and the more local Mercado de Antón Martín are both great. The rooftop at Círculo de Bellas Artes offers one of the best views in the city. And for flamenco, Casa Patas is an authentic experience I always recommend.
Finally, what’s one piece of advice you would give to families or professionals considering a move to Madrid right now?
Keep an open mind and be willing to embrace the culture. Building a new life takes time, but the rewards are worth it. Invest early in building your network and don’t be afraid to ask for help. With the right support and mindset, Madrid can feel like home very quickly.
Find out more about how Madrid Expat Services can support your relocation to Spain on their website or contact Audrey by email audrey@madrid-expat-services.com.
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