last edited Dec 11, 2019
Health and Safety in Spain
Official Recommendations
In France, both for individuals and professionals, the "travel advice" from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding precautions for each country has legal value. A similar online travel advice system exists in several countries:
Health
No vaccinations are mandatory to enter the country, though it is still advisable to be up to date with your "basic vaccines."
Illnesses and Hygiene
Nothing particular to report.
Local Healthcare Facilities
Local infrastructure is good. For healthcare, nationals of countries in the European Economic Area must present their European Health Insurance Card (formerly form E-111), which guarantees the same rights to everyone—otherwise, they will have to pay their medical expenses. Other visitors must rely on their insurance or pay the full cost of care.
Safety
Crime and Delinquency
Spain is a safe destination, on par with the European average, though like anywhere else—and especially in tourist areas—it has its share of petty crime, particularly pickpocketing. However, with some basic precautions and common sense, there is no risk.
Scams and "Tourist" Harassment
The country also has a local specialty when it comes to road travel: vehicle checks and searches by fake police officers (leading to theft and/or extortion), or thefts by people offering to help with a supposed problem (either imaginary or one they created) with your vehicle. That said, such incidents remain very rare and primarily require vigilance if you encounter them.
Socio-Political Risks and Terrorism
Climate, Nature, and Wildlife
Foreign Consulates in Spain
If you run into problems while traveling abroad, your country’s consular services can assist you. It’s also worth noting that if you are a citizen of the European Union and your country is not represented, you can contact any other EU member state’s representation.
France
Consulate General: Calle Marques de la Ensenada, 10 28004 Madrid. Tel.: (91) 700 78 00.
Beyond the Canary Islands or Spanish enclaves in Morocco, there are three other consulates general (Bilbao, Barcelona, and Seville), as well as a dozen French honorary consulates in mainland Spain.
Other Countries
- Belgium:
- Canada:
- Switzerland: