If you are travelling or staying in Croatia, it is important to know how to quickly reach emergency services in case of an urgent situation. Croatia follows the European emergency system, which means that the universal emergency number 112 can be used nationwide to contact all essential services. By calling 112, you are connected to a central dispatch center that can forward your request to ambulance services, police, fire and rescue units, or other emergency responders depending on your situation. This number is free of charge and works from both mobile phones and landlines, even without a SIM card in some cases.
Need emergency help?
In addition to the general emergency number, Croatia also maintains direct contact numbers for specific services. These can be useful if you already know exactly which service you need or if you want to reach them directly without going through the central 112 system. Police can be reached at 192, fire services at 193, emergency medical assistance at 194, maritime search and rescue at 195, and roadside assistance is available at 1987. These numbers are widely published and operational throughout the country, providing fast access to help when needed. Knowing these contacts can significantly improve response time in emergencies and ensure you receive the right assistance as quickly as possible.
Emergency help phone number in Croatia
192 Police
193 Fire department
194 Emergency medical help
195 Maritime search & rescue
1987 Help on the road
What is the main emergency number in Croatia?
The main emergency number is 112, which connects you to all emergency services.
Is 112 free to call?
Yes, calling 112 is completely free of charge.
Can I call emergency numbers without mobile credit?
Yes, emergency numbers work even without credit or balance.
Yes, emergency numbers work even without credit or balance.
Yes, emergency numbers work even without credit or balance.
What is the police number in Croatia?
You can reach the police directly at 192.
What number do I call for medical emergencies?
For medical emergencies, call 194.
What should I use for roadside assistance?
Roadside assistance in Croatia is available at 1987.
Do I need insurance in case of an emergency in Croatia?
While emergency services will always provide urgent medical care regardless of insurance status, having travel or health insurance is strongly recommended. It helps cover hospital costs, treatments, medications, or transport back to your home country, which can otherwise become expensive for non-residents.
Is insurance required to receive emergency treatment?
No, insurance is not required to receive emergency treatment. However, without insurance you may be billed for certain medical services after the initial emergency care, depending on your situation and residency status.
Do I need to pay in case of an emergency in Croatia?
Emergency care is always provided first in urgent cases.
EU citizens with EHICare usually covered, non-EU visitors may be charged afterward.
Llinks: Government of the Republic of Croatia
Verified by: DR. Dr. med. Wilson Allakaj — Physician — Emergency medicine (Umag), Verified on June 2, 2026
