Emergency and Safety Services in Portugal
Portugal is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index. For foreign nationals residing in or visiting the country, the emergency infrastructure is centralized, professional, and increasingly multilingual. Understanding how to navigate these services is essential for effective integration and personal safety.
The Primary Emergency Number: 112
The unified emergency number in Portugal is 112. This number is free of charge and can be dialed from any mobile phone or landline, even without a local SIM card or if the phone is locked. The 112 service connects callers to a centralized dispatch center that coordinates three main services:
- Medical Assistance: Dispatched via the National Institute of Medical Emergency (INEM).
- Police Intervention: Dispatched to the PSP or GNR depending on the location.
- Fire and Rescue: Dispatched to the local fire departments (Bombeiros).
Operators usually speak Portuguese and English. In some cases, French or Spanish speakers may be available. When calling, you should state your location clearly, the nature of the emergency, and the number of people involved.
Law Enforcement Agencies
Portugal utilizes a dual-force system for policing, supplemented by specialized investigative bodies. The jurisdiction is primarily determined by geography and the nature of the incident.
PSP - Polícia de Segurança Pública
The PSP is the urban police force. They are responsible for safety in large cities and metropolitan areas (e.g., Lisbon, Porto, Faro). They handle public order, traffic control in cities, and petty crime prevention.
GNR - Guarda Nacional Republicana
The GNR is a gendarmerie force (military nature) responsible for rural areas, smaller towns, and the national highway network. They also manage coastal patrolling and fiscal customs.
PJ - Polícia Judiciária
The PJ is the criminal investigation police. They handle serious crimes such as organized crime, terrorism, money laundering, and complex homicides. Foreigners typically only interact with the PJ in the context of major investigations.
Reporting Crimes
Non-emergency crimes (e.g., theft without immediate danger) can be reported at any local police station (Esquadra). You may also use the "Queixa Eletrónica" portal for certain minor offenses. Filing a police report is free of charge (0 EUR) ($0 USD, Jan 2026).
Medical Emergencies and Health Helplines
For life-threatening situations, 112 is the correct contact. However, for urgent but non-life-threatening health issues, Portugal offers a dedicated triage line.
SNS 24 (National Health Service Line)
The SNS 24 service can be reached at 808 24 24 24. This is a crucial resource for foreigners. Nurses provide triage and can direct you to the nearest health center or hospital, or even prescribe medication over the phone. They offer an English-speaking service (select option 9).
Emergency Costs
Emergency medical care at public hospitals (Serviço Nacional de Saúde - SNS) is generally provided at the point of need. For residents registered with the SNS, most "taxas moderadoras" (user fees) for emergency visits have been abolished as of 2022/2023. However, non-residents or those using private hospitals will face costs. A standard private emergency consultation can range from 80 EUR to 150 EUR ($87 USD to $163 USD, Jan 2026), depending on the facility and required tests.
Fire Services and Civil Protection
The "Bombeiros" (Firefighters) in Portugal are highly respected and often operate on a volunteer or hybrid basis. They handle fire suppression, mountain rescues, and emergency medical transport (ambulances).
Forest Fire Safety
During the summer months (June to September), Portugal faces a high risk of forest fires. The National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC) issues alerts. It is illegal to burn garden waste or use fire in rural areas during "critical periods." Fines for non-compliance are high, often starting at 250 EUR ($272 USD, Jan 2026) for individuals.
Specialized Support Services
Specific organizations provide assistance for vulnerable situations or specific demographics:
- APAV (Victim Support): A private, non-profit organization supporting victims of crime, including domestic violence. Their helpline is 116 006 (free and confidential).
- Safe Communities Portugal: A non-profit providing comprehensive safety information specifically for the English-speaking community. Website: safecommunitiesportugal.com.
- Maritime Authority (Polícia Marítima): For emergencies at sea or on beaches, they coordinate with the Lifeguard service (ISN).
Summary of Essential Contacts
Emergency (General): 112
Health Triage (SNS 24): 808 24 24 24
Victim Support (APAV): 116 006
Forest Fire Reporting: 112 or 117