VISA
Participants are required to make their own arrangements for visas, if necessary. This page provides information that may be of assistance. Visas are not required by visitors travelling from EU, EEA, and EFTA countries provided the stay is for less than 90 days.
What is a Uniform Schengen Visa?
The Uniform Schengen Visa, also known as short-term Schengen Visa, allows you to stay and travel in France and the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days per year. The visa does not allow you to work. Applications must be submitted at least 3 weeks before the departure date. We recommend that you start earlier in case you are asked to submit additional information, which can extend the process. For detailed information about the Schengen Area and its visa policies, visit this link https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/
Do I need a Schengen Visa?
Citizens of certain countries must hold a short stay visa. The EU has a common list of countries whose citizens must have a visa or are exempted from the obligation to hold a visa.
https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/who-needs-schengen-visa/
How to apply for a Schengen Visa?
Please refer to the guidelines from the French Government on the procedures and conditions regarding the issuing of these visas https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/web/france-visas
Do you need an official invitation letter?
An official invitation letter to support your visa application, funding request, etc. can be requested from the EFTA. Once your participation has been confirmed, invitation letters can be requested at efta-relates2025@symvoli.gr
Make sure your request includes all the information listed below:
• your full name as it appears in your passport
• your home address
• your email address
• your nationality
• your passport number
Please write VISA INVITATION LETTER in the subject line of your email.
HEALTH
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency Number: Dial 112 for any type of emergency, including medical, police, and fire services.
- Police: Dial 17 for police assistance.
- Medical Emergencies: Dial 15 for ambulance services.
- Fire Department: Dial 18 for the fire brigade.
Nearest Hospitals and Medical Facilities
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Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL):
- Hôpital Edouard Herriot: 5 Place d'Arsonval, 69003 Lyon.
- Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse: 103 Grande Rue de la Croix-Rousse, 69004 Lyon.
- Hôpital Lyon Sud: 165 Chemin du Grand Revoyet, 69310 Pierre-Bénite.
-
Centre Hospitalier Saint Joseph Saint Luc:
Address: 20 Quai Claude Bernard, 69007 Lyon.
Phone: +33 4 78 61 81 81. -
Clinique du Parc
Address: 155 Ter Boulevard Stalingrad, 69006 Lyon.
Phone: +33 4 72 44 88 44.
Health Services Information
- Consultation Fees: Consultation fees may apply for medical services, and having travel insurance that covers medical expenses is advisable.
- Travel Insurance: Recommended that all participants have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage.
Safety Tips
- Personal Safety: Lyon is generally safe, but like any major city, it’s wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas and at night.
- Pickpocketing: Be cautious of pickpockets in tourist areas and public transport. Keep personal belongings secure.
Local Regulations and Customs
Business Hours
- Shops: Most shops in Lyon are open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. Larger stores and shopping centers may stay open later, but smaller shops might close for lunch between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM.
- Banks: Typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Some branches may close for lunch from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM.
- Restaurants: Lunch is usually served from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM, and dinner from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Some restaurants may close on Sundays or Mondays.
- Cafés and Bars: Often open from early morning until late at night.
Smoking Regulations
- Indoor Smoking Ban: Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public spaces, including restaurants, cafes, bars, and public transport.
- Designated Areas: Look for designated smoking areas, usually outside buildings.
- E-cigarettes: Generally subject to the same restrictions as traditional cigarettes.
Local Laws
- Identification: Carry a form of ID (passport or national ID card) with you at all times.
- Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol in public places is generally prohibited, except in licensed outdoor seating areas of bars and restaurants.
- Illegal Substances: Drug use and possession are strictly prohibited and subject to severe penalties.