Andorra

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 110 for police.
• Dial 112 for emergencies.
• Dial 116 for medical emergencies.
• Dial 118 for fire brigade.
• Dial 181 for toll-free domestic violence hotline.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Andorra has a low crime rate.

• Use common sense. Stay alert to your surroundings. 
• Take the same personal security measures you would take in a large city or at a tourist destination.
• Always keep track of your passport, including on flights and other transportation. Avoid carrying your passport unless needed for travel, especially in tourist areas. Instead, carry a copy or photo of your passport's bio page.   
• You will need your passport to check in to any hotel in Andorra.

Scams

The prevalence of scams in Andorra is low.

• Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.
• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 110.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Consulate General Barcelona and local law enforcement for assistance.
• Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Andorra are severe. You can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail.
• Your U.S. passport won’t help you avoid arrest or prosecution. 
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Andorra seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. Consulate General Barcelona immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Andorra.
• Andorra allows for civil unions for same-sex couples. According to Andorran law 34/2014, the same sex “civil union” is accorded all the same benefits as a “marriage” and differs in name only. 
• Andorra recognizes same-sex marriages performed in other countries where it is legal if neither spouse is an Andorran citizen. If 1 or both spouses are Andorran, the same sex marriage performed elsewhere would be recorded in Andorra’s Civil Registry as a “civil union.” 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Andorra prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual or mental disabilities in employment, education, access to health care, and the provision of other state services. The law is enforced.
• The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and ease of movement or access.
• Taxis that can accommodate wheelchairs are available but must be called in advance.
• In some areas, sidewalks can be narrow and very steep. You should take this into account when planning your visit. 
• Andorra ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in March 2014. The government continues to adapt infrastructure to the needs of disabled persons to ensure accessibility to public transportation, museums, commerce, restaurants, and other buildings throughout the country.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your Andorra prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Traveler Information provides Andorra specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 116 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available. Ambulance services are reliable and well-coordinated, with rapid response times given the country’s size.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Andorra. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Healthcare facilities are modern and well-equipped, particularly in the capital, Andorra la Vella.

• The country’s primary hospital is Hospital Nostra Senyora de Meritxell.
• Specialized or complex cases may be referred to Spain or France.
• The U.S. Consulate in Barcelona  maintains a list of doctors and hospitals.  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront or proof of insurance prior to service or admission. 
• Medical staff in private and major public facilities often speak English, though this is not guaranteed in all settings.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They don't follow the same rules. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.

• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Andorra.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications. 
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Andorra.  
• Although Andorra has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, the quality of care varies widely.
• If you plan to undergo surgery in Andorra, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified. 
• Anyone traveling to Andorra for medical treatment must have the proper residency permit. Check the Government of Andorra’s website for more information.

Prescription medications

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with the Andorra Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Andorra.
• Pharmacies (“Farmàcia”) are widely available and well-regulated.
• Medications are not commonly counterfeit g
• Foreign prescriptions are generally accepted at Andorra drugstores ("farmacies") as long as the prescription is clearly legible and includes complete details of the physician and the patient.  Also, the medication (or the equivalent active ingredient available in Europe) must be authorized and marketed in Andorra and the medication must not be subject to special controls (e.g., psychotropics, opioids, or narcotics); in such cases, a specific Andorran prescription or the intervention of a local physician may be required.
• Some medicines prescribed in the United States do not have a local equivalent. 
• To bring medication into Andorra you need to have a prescription or medical report justifying your need. 
• Carry the medication in its original packaging, labeled with your name and the prescription
• Andorran legislation does not allow the shipping of medication by mail.  Medications sent by mail will be stopped at customs and either returned (at your expense) or destroyed.
• Check with the Spanish embassy to ensure the medication is legal in Spain (before bringing medication from Andorra into Spain).
• Check with the French Embassy to ensure the medication is legal in France (before bringing medication from Andorra into France).
• Review the European Agency for Medication list prior to travel.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• Surrogacy is  illegal in Andorra

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.

Altitude

• Much of Andorra is at high altitude (900–2,000+ meters).
• Ski resorts like Grandvalira are significantly elevated.
• Travelers may experience mild altitude symptoms.
• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Andorra.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

• Andorra’s transportation infrastructure is largely road-based. The road network has a length of 167 miles of which 123 are paved.
• In winter, the main roads are quickly cleared of snow and remain accessible. However, storms might cause traffic disruptions.
• Drivers in Andorra should be prepared for snow and icy conditions during winter, especially in higher elevations. 
• Snow tires or chains are required in all vehicles from November 1 to May 15.

Traffic laws

You must obtain an International Driving Permit prior to your arrival if you plan to drive in Andorra. The permits are only valid for 1 year.

• Liability insurance is required to drive any car or motorcycle.
• If stopped by local authorities, you may be fined on the spot. You will get a receipt for payment.
• Drivers must carry all travel documentation including driving permits, documents related to vehicle ownership, and vehicle insurance.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis are available for local, regional, and international travel.

Public and commercial transportation

Andorra has a widely available efficient public bus system.

• Visit the website of the Andorra’s national tourism authority and Andorra’s national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.
• Andorra has available electric bicycle rentals through Cicland - Public electric bicycle service
• Helmets are not available from rental stations. You must bring your own.

Aviation safety oversight

• Andorra does not have an international airport. The nearest airports in Spain are La Seu d'Urgell, Barcelona, Lleida, Reus, and Girona.
• The nearest airports in France are Toulouse, Carcassonne, and Perpignan.
• Most offer coach or minibus service to Andorra.
• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that France and Spain’s Civil Aviation Authorities meet international standards for aviation safety oversight.
• FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather Consitions

Heavy snowfall and avalanches

•  Most likely in winter between December to March, especially in the mountains.
• Monitored by local authorities and ski resorts.

Flooding

•  Possible in spring between March and May. Also, common in autumn between September and November due to snowmelt or heavy rain.
• Andorran Civil Protection issues alerts.

Landslides and rockfalls

•  These can occur in spring and autumn after heavy rain or rapid snowmelt.
• Monitored by Ministry of Environment.

Thunderstorms

•  Most common from May to September.
• Weather warnings from Andorran Meteorological Service.

Local resources:

• For weather and road conditions check www.mobilitat.ad
• Civil Protection (Protecció Civil)
• Andorran Meteorological Service (Servei Meteorològic d’Andorra)
• Andorra Police
• Fire Brigade

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates