Lyon has a great potential for international development -almost equal distance from Italy, Germany and Switzerland - the city is located in the heart of Europe. Due to its geographical location, Lyon appeals more and more to multinational companies like Sanofi Pasteur, Lafarge and Renault Trucks. By developing poles of excellence, Lyon is becoming by far the most competitively international agglomeration in France after Paris.

The international community is therefore increasing rather quickly; INSEE’s 2005 data suggests that the number of internationals expatriates have grown from 50,000 to 67,000.

In response to this internationalization of the city new consulates opens every year.

Since the 1st of January 2009, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Lyon hosts "la Maison des Consulats." 11 consulates share this space: Brazil, Chile, El Salvador, Estonia, Guinea, Honduras, Latvia, Dominican Republic, Lithuania, Monaco and San Marino. This Consulate House facilities the implantation of new consulates to come and open their consular services in the city. Of course, it also shows how motivated strong the city of Lyon is to be a premiere international city.

Click here do download the list of the 66 official consulates that are present in the Grand Lyon.