I remember reading something...somewhere, (this should already tell you that this might not be correct information) that the Swiss government offers introductory French lessons to expats. Would anybody know anything about this? We are relocating in April and I thought I remember seeing some type of Bienvenue classes for adults. I will be relocating to Geneva.

I also want to thank many of you for your posts for the past two years that I have read to prepare me for this move.

I am sure I will have many more questions to come.

Thanks,

Sameyeam

I think you were mistaken.

Does anyone have any recommendations for French lessons in Zurich? I am a beginner. Thanks!

I think there are, but not for everyone - refugees perhaps.

Well there are places where you can get classes almost free.

I did two courses in Lausanne for 40 CHF for 1 course and other was 22 CHF per month.

Which is almost free. You can check website of Salvation Army and have a look.

Aree de Salut will be the name in French.

Cheers!!

There are free lessons for migrants in 'precarious situations', either social or economic (http://www.francaisenjeu.ch/). I know of expats who were able to access these lessons.

There is also the association Lire et Ecrire (http://www.lire-et-ecrire.ch/page.php) which is primarily aimed at combating illiteracy, but which, if I have correctly understood, is also open to non-native speakers of limited means (I used to have a physiotherapist who volunteered there).

And some non-native speakers who receive social aid or unemployment benefits may be offered language courses.

But as far as I know, there are no free lessons automatically offered to people who move here.

it's not free courses. if ur family annual income is below some level, u can apply a kind of coupon -- about 1000 chf per year, and you can use it in some specific school to take courses, e.g. language, IT, etc.

Yes, it's called Universite Populaire de canton Geneve, you pay 50-100 fr only admin fee. Can be pretty good, if you come across a good prof.

Neuchatel has affordable options that are open to anyone: http://francaisne.cefna.ch/?cat=7&eco=32&cou=46
Haven't tried it yet, but have heard good things...

Thanks for the advice. If I ever find the exact one that I read about, I will post it.