Medical emergencies in Germany

112 is the single emergency number for ambulance and fire across all of Germany (and the EU). For non-life-threatening urgent care, the out-of-hours GP service (Ärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst) is reached on 116 117.

Key points to understand

112: ambulance, fire, and life-threatening emergencies — free from any phone

112: ambulance, fire, and life-threatening emergencies — free from any phone. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

116 117: ärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst — out-of-hours GP service for urgent but non-emergency needs

116 117: ärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst — out-of-hours GP service for urgent but non-emergency needs. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Notaufnahme (A&E at hospitals) should be used for genuine emergencies only; expect long waits for minor issues

Notaufnahme (A&E at hospitals) should be used for genuine emergencies only; expect long waits for minor issues. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.