Working in Lyon

Local Economy

Lyon’s economy is doing well, with the rise of the game design, internet services and software industries being a sign of how well the city is thriving in the 21st century so far.

The city’s reputation as one of the best cultural and gastronomic locations in the world has led to a steady rise in the number of tourists visiting the city, boosting this sector. Some 60 percent of visitors to Lyon currently travel to the city for business. 

There are several main business centers in Lyon, but the main one is arguably La Part-Dieu, which is superbly positioned for local, regional and international transportation connections. 

Lyon is at the heart of the economic triangle of the Rhône-Alpes region in France, which also includes the cities of St-Étienne and Grenoble. Lyon is perhaps France’s most attractive and dynamic city in terms of its economy.

Job Hunting in Lyon

With such a thriving local economy, there are a lot of exciting different opportunities for expatriates seeking jobs in Lyon.

Recruitment agencies such as Reed are good places to search for positions in the city, while websites including GoAbroad.com and TheLocal.fr also carry jobs in the area. 

Lyon’s eastern suburbs are where many of the city’s jobs can be found, while positions may be advertised in publications such as 20 Minutes. 

Registration and Residence Permits for Lyon

Expatriates who are planning to stay in Lyon for longer than 90 days must register with the French Immigration and Integration Office as soon as possible after arriving in France. 

In some cases, it may be necessary for foreigners to instead apply to the relevant prefecture for a residence permit.

Expats ought to apply for a residence permit in the first two months after entering the French territory.