Police and Emergency — Your Rights and Important Numbers

Status: March 2026. All information without guarantee.

Emergency Numbers

| Number | When | Who arrives |
|--------|------|-----------||
| 110 | Police (crime, danger, accident) | Police |
| 112 | Fire brigade / Ambulance (fire, medical emergency) | Fire brigade / Emergency doctor |
| 116 117 | Medical on-call service (not life-threatening) | Doctor / Advice |
| 0800 111 0 111 | Telephone crisis counseling (24/7, free, anonymous) | Psychological help |
| 0800 111 0 222 | Telephone crisis counseling (alternative) | Psychological help |
| 08000 116 016 | Helpline Violence against women | Advice in 18 languages |

112 works throughout Europe and is free — even without a SIM card.

Filing a Report

When to file a report?

• For every crime (theft, fraud, assault, threats, discrimination)
• Even based on suspicion — the police will investigate

How?

• In person at any police station (no appointment needed)
• Online in many states (police online reporting)
• By phone at 110 (in case of immediate danger)

Interpreter:

• You have the right to an interpreter at the police — free of charge!
• Ask for one directly at the entrance

Your Rights During a Police Check

• You must identify yourself (passport, residence permit always with you)
• You have the right to know why you are being stopped
• You do not have to make a statement about an accusation (right to remain silent)
• You have the right to a lawyer (if arrested: immediately!)
• Racial profiling is prohibited — if you suspect it, you can file a complaint

Help for Crime Victims

• Weißer Ring (weisser-ring.de) — free victim support, accompaniment to police and court
• Victim assistance in every major city — psychological and legal counseling
• Court cost assistance for victims with low income
• Victim Compensation Act — state compensation for victims of violence

Tips

• Save emergency numbers in your phone (for children too!)
• For domestic violence: 08000 116 016 (free, anonymous, 18 languages)
• Filing a report is free — it has no negative consequences for your residence status
• Photograph documents (passport, residence permit) — in case they are stolen