Bulgaria Emergency Numbers (2026)
Country Code: +359 · Currency: BGN
Verified emergency numbers for Bulgaria: European 112, Police 166, Ambulance 150, Fire 160, Mountain Rescue. Sourced from Bulgarian Ministry of Interior.
📞 Emergency Phone Numbers in Bulgaria (Police, Ambulance, Fire)
112 is the unified European emergency number in Bulgaria. Connects to police, fire, ambulance, and mountain rescue. Operators speak Bulgarian and English. The 112 Bulgaria mobile app sends GPS location.
Police emergency number. Also reachable via 112. Handles criminal emergencies and public safety.
Ambulance and emergency medical services via 150. Also reachable via 112. Response faster in Sofia and major cities.
Fire emergency number 160. Also reachable via 112. Handles fires, rescues, and civil protection.
🔢 Police, Ambulance, and Fire Numbers in Bulgaria
View dedicated guide, instructions, and alternate numbers for specific emergency services in Bulgaria.
📍 Find Nearest Emergency Services
Use GPS to locate the nearest hospital, police station, or fire station near your current location.
🗣️ Emergency Phrases in Bulgaria
Use these phrases to communicate in an emergency when language is a barrier. Tap the speaker to play pronunciation.
⚠️ When NOT to Call Emergency Services
- • Do not call 112 for non-urgent medical advice - contact your GP
- • Do not call 166 for non-urgent police matters - visit the local police station
- • Do not make false emergency calls - punishable by fines under Bulgarian law
- • Do not call 112 for road conditions - use the Road Infrastructure Agency information
- • Do not use emergency lines for weather forecasts
✈️ Travel Notes — Bulgaria
Emergency response is generally reliable in Sofia and major cities. Response in rural and mountainous areas may be slower. The 112 Bulgaria app provides GPS location to emergency services. Mountain Rescue Service is experienced. Private hospitals in Sofia offer good emergency care.
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Emergency Services in Bulgaria — Essential Traveler Guide
If you are planning a trip to Bulgaria or reside there, understanding the local emergency service system is critical for your safety. The international calling code for calling Bulgaria is +359. Emergency operators are available 24/7, but translation capabilities may vary, so keeping local phrases handy is advised.
Police, Ambulance, and Fire Brigade Numbers in Bulgaria
Bulgaria provides multiple standard emergency service channels, which are free to call from any phone. To call the universal emergency in Bulgaria, dial <strong>112</strong>. To call the police in Bulgaria, dial <strong>166</strong>. To call the ambulance in Bulgaria, dial <strong>150</strong>. To call the fire brigade in Bulgaria, dial <strong>160</strong>. To call the mountain rescue in Bulgaria, dial <strong>112</strong>.
How to call emergency services in Bulgaria
Emergency lines can be dialled from standard landlines, payphones, and mobile networks. In most cases, these emergency calls can be completed even if your mobile device does not have a SIM card installed or if you do not have a positive credit balance. If you need to make a call, remember to stay calm, clearly explain the issue, and provide the exact location to the operator.
Frequently Asked Questions — Bulgaria
Does 112 replace 150, 160, and 166 in Bulgaria? ▼
112 is the unified emergency number that connects to all services, but the traditional short codes (150, 160, 166) remain active. Both systems work.
Can I call 112 from a mobile without a SIM card in Bulgaria? ▼
Yes. GSM phones can dial 112 without a SIM card. Emergency calls are free.
Are emergency calls free in Bulgaria? ▼
Yes. All emergency calls to 112, 150, 160, and 166 are free of charge from any phone.
Do emergency operators speak English in Bulgaria? ▼
Yes. 112 operators are trained to handle calls in Bulgarian and English. English proficiency is common in tourist areas.
What number do I call for mountain rescue in Bulgaria? ▼
Call 112 for mountain rescue. The Mountain Rescue Service (PSS) is dispatched through the 112 system and covers all Bulgarian mountains including ski resorts.
Is there an emergency app for Bulgaria? ▼
Yes. The 112 Bulgaria mobile app automatically sends your GPS location to the emergency center and provides direct access to emergency services.