Living in Marseille as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Expatriates require a long-stay visa (VLS-TS) to reside in Marseille. EU nationals and Switzerland do not require a visa. Expatriates from other countries can apply via the Prefecture de Police (Police Department) in Marseille.

Language resources

Marseille's culture is predominantly French, although Italian and North African dialects are also spoken in the city. The Alliance Française de Marseille, a cultural organization, offers French language courses at various levels. Language exchanges and online resources are also available for expats wishing to learn the French lingo.

Housing

The cost of housing in Marseille varies depending on location. Shared accommodation in a central neighborhood can cost around 350 euros per month, while a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from 600 to 900 euros per month. A two-bedroom apartment in Marseille costs an average of 1200 euros per month, while a three-plus-bedroom house costs approximately 1600 euros per month.

Groceries

Marseille's food is renowned for its freshness and variety. Expats can spoil themselves at local markets such as Les Capucins and Pointe Rouge, where they can find fresh produce, fish, and charcuterie. The average cost of groceries is around 250 euros per month for a single person.

Transportation

Marseille offers affordable transportation options. A single bus or metro ticket costs 1.50 euros, and a day ticket costs 5 euros. The Cost Web car-sharing scheme allows members to borrow a car for a specific period, with prices starting at 3 euros per hour. Marseille's proximity to the train station and the airport further reduces travel costs.

Marseille has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. The temperatures in summer can soar up to 32°C, and the winters are relatively mild, with temperatures barely dropping below 5°C. However, the mistral, a strong wind that blows through the city, can make winter days feel much colder.

Marseille's economy is thriving, and it is a hub for various industries, including energy, finance, technology, and healthcare. Annual job fairs such as the Biotech & Entrepreneurship Convention and the Marseille Employment Fair offer opportunities for expats in these fields. Additionally, the city's growing start-up scene offers many successful ventures, including OpenClassrooms, Movinga, and Cultivaced.

Marseille has some of the best healthcare facilities in the country. The cities' two main hospitals, La Muette and La Timone, are both internationally recognized. The French social security covers newcomers, and expats can choose between the French health insurance scheme (sécurité sociale) and international health insurance schemes provided by private insurers.

Marseille's public transportation system is efficient, with regular bus and tram services. The metro is available in the city center, but it is limited in scope. The Ferrières de Marseille, a steam trains network that links Marseille with other cities such as Aix-en-Provence and Martigues, is a unique transportation option. The city also offers car-sharing schemes, including Zipcar and Engie Mobility.

Marseille is generally safe, with lower crime rates compared to other European cities. However, certain areas, such as La Belle de Mai and the port area, are less safe and are advised to be avoided, particularly at night. Expats are recommended to take precautions, such as carrying wallets in front pockets and closing the door behind you when entering a building.