We all hope it will never happen, but it helps to be prepared for an emergency, so here are the primary contact numbers for emergencies in Spain.

The first number you need to know is 112, the leading emergency number in Spain (equivalent to calling 999 in the UK). Besides Spain, you can use this number in any European country.

When calling 112 in Spain, it’s handy if you have someone who speaks Spanish with you, though English speakers may be available if you ask. 

Here are some other numbers of interest if you are in an emergency. 

If you dial 112, the call will always be free, and you can be transferred to 061, 062, 080, 085… but you may waste a few seconds, which in some circumstances may be crucial. The costs above are an average, it can a few cents depending on your phone company.   

There is also a Foreign Tourists Helpline called SATE. You can call the Tourist Emergency Helpline – 902 102 112 (in English, French, German and Italian). The Servicio de Atención al Turista Extranjero (SATE) handles foreigner’s security matters. You can report lost documents, a crime, damage, assault, robbery, break-in or an accident to this service. After calling, you will typically receive a visit from your local police within 48 hours to verify your complaint is legitimate.  

If you would like to contact SATE directly, here are the numbers of a few cities in Spain:

Madrid: 915 488 537 | 915 488 008

Malaga: 951 926 161 | 951 999 818

Sevilla: 954 564 767

We hope you never need to use it, but it may not be a bad idea to add this post to your favorites on your phone.