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What You Need to Know When You’re Moving to Lyon

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  • Paul O'Doherty

    I am excited about meeting so many open-minded people, who are willing to help a total stranger enjoy Lyon.

An amazing community is waiting for you!

Meet international people at local events

Socialize, enjoy hobbies, and make friends

Get info, and feel at home abroad!

Relocating to Lyon

The local economy is in good condition and the excellent culture and gastronomy further make Lyon an attractive place to live.

About the City

Lyon is home to around half a million people (as of 2014), with the local population speaking French. Although many people have a decent grasp of English, making an effort in French is always appreciated. Lyon has the second-highest populated metropolitan region in France, behind only Paris.

Around 15% of people who live in Lyon were not born in the city, while both the median household income (36,235 EUR) and median family income (45,573 EUR) are above the national average.

Lyon’s population is rising again but is still some distance below its peak of close to 600,000 in the 1930s. The population has risen by around 100,000 in the last 20 years and over two million people live in the Greater Lyon metropolitan area.

The Climate in Lyon

Temperatures can reach very high figures during the height of summer and it is not unheard of for the mercury to pass 40°C during August.

Lyon has a climate much of its own as it lies between the subtropical Mediterranean climates to the south of France and the Temperate Oceanic climates of northern France.

The winter months tend to be the driest months for expatriates in Lyon, although it is not uncommon for there to be snow in the city during December and January, when temperatures can drop below freezing and stay there for some time.

Visas for France

Although there are exemptions, as a general rule visas are required for expats moving to Lyon.

Statutory documentary evidence must be presented at the border, including the foreigner’s reasons for stay, as well as their means of support and their accommodation arrangements. Citizens of EU/EEA countries do not require a visa for France due to the Schengen agreement.

Applicants for residence in Lyon ought to apply from the relevant French embassy or consulate in their home country. For stays longer than 90 days, a long-stay visa will be needed.

For more information on French visas, please also refer to our article on Moving to France.

Nov 21, 2024, 7:00 PM
9 attendees
Please read carefully: For this event, you need to sign-up at the Goethe Institute by sending an email to info-lyon@goethe.de. If you are not on their list for that event, you cannot attend. Also, you
Nov 21, 2024, 7:30 PM
19 attendees
This year Beaujolais Nouveaux arrive on November 21. It will be a global event. We are lucky to be able to celebrate it in the city where the world trend started. Since 1996, on the 3rd Thursday of
Join us for November Tales – an evening of connection and conversation with fellow expats from over 30 different countries! Whether you’re new to the city or a seasoned local, this is a great chance t
Join us on December 11 for a festive evening of good cheer, great company, and holiday spirit! Let’s come together one last time this year to celebrate, connect, and raise a glass to a memorable 2023.

See all upcoming events for expats in Lyon

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  • Paul O'Doherty

    I am excited about meeting so many open-minded people, who are willing to help a total stranger enjoy Lyon.

  • Maria Cristina Alves

    If you don't speak French, it is difficult to find friends here. But InterNations helped me to meet other expats and get tips to improve my language skills.

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