Emergency numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Police, ambulance & what to do

If something goes wrong in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the numbers you need are simple: 122 for police, 124 for ambulance, and 123 for fire. Keep these saved before you land, and read on for what else to know about embassies, lost documents, and getting medical help.

What are the emergency numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Police: 122, Ambulance: 124, Fire: 123 (current as of 2024). If your car breaks down or you need towing, call 1282 in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina or 1285 in the Republika Srpska — the country is split into two entities with different roadside assistance lines, so know which region you're in.

What if I need medical help in Sarajevo?

For life-threatening or serious conditions, call 124 for 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance, or contact the Emergency Medical Institute of Sarajevo Canton directly at Kolodvorska 14, Sarajevo, +387 33 611 111. For non-life-threatening acute illness, pediatric or dental care, go to the Public Health Center of Sarajevo Canton, Vrazova 11, Sarajevo, +387 33 292 500. Pharmacies across Sarajevo generally open 08:00–20:00, and Public Institution 'Apoteke Sarajevo' runs 24/7 on-duty pharmacies for after-hours needs. Note these details are specific to Sarajevo; other cities and regions may differ.

What do I do if I lose my passport or documents?

Report the loss or theft to local police first and get a police report — this is a legal requirement before you can get a replacement. Then apply for a travel document (putni list) from the nearest Bosnian embassy or consulate so you can return to or leave Bosnia and Herzegovina.

When should I contact my embassy?

If you're a U.S. citizen, the Embassy in Sarajevo (1 Robert C. Frasure Street; +387 33 704-000, press '0' after hours for the duty officer; SarajevoACS@state.gov) can help in several situations:

• Arrested or detained: request the embassy be notified — a consular officer can inform authorities you're under consular protection, ask to visit you, and give you a list of attorneys (legal costs are yours).
• Fall ill: a consular officer can help you find medical facilities (treatment costs are yours).
• Serious accident: the officer will inform your family through relevant authorities and, if requested, discuss continued hospitalization (costs remain yours).

Embassy help generally covers advice, contacts, and facilitation — not the cost of medical care, legal defense, or repatriation. Confirm specifics with your own embassy before travel. Also contact your travel provider and insurer for any serious incident, as they can advise on what support they offer.

One practical note: staying connected helps you reach these numbers or your embassy quickly if needed — check options for the country at /destinations/bosnia-and-herzegovina.

FAQ

Do I need to declare cash when entering Bosnia and Herzegovina? Yes — amounts exceeding 10,000 Euros or the equivalent must be declared on arrival.

Who do I call for a car breakdown? 1282 in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, or 1285 in the Republika Srpska, depending on which entity you're in.

Will the embassy pay for my medical treatment or lawyer? No — consular officers help with advice and contacts, but medical, legal, and repatriation costs are your responsibility.

Sources

• Getting help - Bosnia and Herzegovina travel advice
• https://adoptions.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/BosniaandHerzegovina.html
• https://zzjzks.ba/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/zdr-turisti-en.pdf
• https://www.bihambasada.se/putni-list/
• https://www.bihambasada.se/kakvu-pomoc-ambasada-moze-pruziti/