EUSA Orientations are mandatory. One of the main topics covered during orientation is Health and Safety information. In addition, prior to programme start health and safety is sent to participants via email. EUSA follows the recommendations published by the Forum of Education Abroad in their Standards of Good Practice. In particular, its standard 8 on Health, Safety, Security and Risk Management.

Staying Healthy and Safe 

The EUSA International Office wants you to enjoy your time in Seville as much as possible. To make sure you can focus on that, we’ve put together some important information for you. On this page you will find some helpful resources to help you navigate many of the health and safety issues you may have questions about. If you can’t find the information you’re looking for here, please contact the International Office so we can assist you.

HEALTH INSURANCE IS REQUIRED: All students must have valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or private health insurance for the entire time they are studying at EUSA. Students participating in EUSA Study Abroad Programme are required to secure Schengen Territory High Medical Coverage including medical expenses and repatriation. 

  Medical records: Be familiar with your own medical history and make sure you know how to access your medical records, including current or past health conditions, allergies, medications, immunisation records, and any recent hospitalisations.
 Medical conditions: If you regularly see a doctor for any type of health condition, it is a good idea to schedule an appointment with your doctor before you leave. Create a plan for continuing treatment of your health condition abroad.
 Prescription medications: Make sure to bring copies of all prescriptions to show that they belong to you. If you will need to refill your prescriptions while abroad, check to make sure what you need is available in Seville. If it is not available, consider bringing enough medication to cover your whole stay in Spain. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring a copy of your prescription and extra pairs.

Adapting to life in a foreign country can seem very easy at times and very difficult at others. You will likely experience high points and low points as you learn to navigate life in Seville. This is completely normal: everyone goes through different stages of cultural adjustment, and some people may be affected more seriously than others.

You are living in Spain now, even if it is only for a short time. Though it can sometimes feel like a long holiday, it’s important to take care of yourself abroad the same way you would at home. Try to create a routine that makes you feel comfortable.

  If you exercise regularly, find a way to keep it up in Seville. There are plenty of gyms, parks, and sports teams to join here. Do some research and you could make friends while keeping up with healthy habits.
 If you see a therapist regularly, find one in Seville. There are English-speaking therapists available. If you need help finding one, contact the International Office.
 Maintain a healthy diet: Eat meals on a regular schedule; try to eat a balanced diet.
 Alcohol: If you drink alcohol, know your limits and practice moderation. If you do drink too much, do not be afraid to seek help. Keep in mind that drinking too much can not only affect your health but can often lead to unsafe situations as well.
 Weather: Dress appropriately for the weather. It is often very hot and sunny in Seville. Make sure to wear sunscreen and drink enough water. Observe the locals and learn not to run errands at the hottest part of the day!

Even if you take care of yourself, it’s normal that you may get sick from time to time.

 You know yourself best: Decide when you need to take a day off to rest, when you need to take medication, or need to go to the doctor. The International Office can make an appointment at the doctor for you, and (for Study Abroad students only) go to the appointment with you if you don’t feel comfortable speaking in Spanish.
 Pharmacies in Seville: Each area of Seville has a “farmacia de guardia” that is open 24 hours a day. In Spain, if you describe your symptoms to the pharmacist they will be able to give you the medication you need. This is the easiest treatment option for minor illnesses and basic health needs.
 If you start to feel worse, go to the hospital. If it is an emergency, call 112 for emergency services first to make sure you get the medical help you need and then call the EUSA emergency phone (for Study Abroad students only). Someone answering the phone at the 112 number will speak English.

In case of emergency follow the instructions provided during orientation.  Find information about how to proceed in case of Force Majeure and Emergency Situations. Keep your phone on and periodically check your email inbox.

Important Safety Information

All students are required to have a working phone number and email address for the entire time they are studying at EUSA, and this information must be reported to EUSA. It is important that EUSA is able to get in touch with each student in the event of an emergency.

International students at EUSA from certain programmes will be provided with a phone number for 24/7 force majeure assistance (service not available during bank holidays, holiday periods and official festivities).

Please be aware that this number is not a replacement for official emergency services. If you need the help of police, the fire department, or ambulance services, call 112 immediately and then call the EUSA emergency phone number (for Study Abroad Students only).

  Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  Travel in groups when possible. If you travel alone, let someone know where you are going.
 Know the location of your country’s closest embassy and how to contact them. Many countries’ embassies also have safety programmes for travellers: if you sign up you receive safety updates and your embassy will be able to contact you if there is an emergency. If this programme exists for your country, it is a good idea to enroll in it.
  Have copies of your important documents. Make sure to keep them in a safe place and leave one with your emergency contact at home.
Do not carry large amounts of money or flash your money when you are out places. Keep a backup credit or debit/bank card (or some extra cash) at your accommodation in Seville in case your wallet is stolen.
 Do not leave your mobile phone on the table at restaurants or bars.
 Be more careful if you go out at night: stay in well-lit areas where other people are around. If you go to bars, clubs, or parties, go with a friend or a group of friends and make sure to watch out for each other. Even if you go out at night often at home, remember that you are in a foreign country and things may be different than you expect.
 Be aware of local laws and common scams.
 Keep up with current events that could affect you here in Seville. If you hear about a protest or demonstration, avoid it.
 Research Seville before you arrive and do your best to blend in. You do not need to change your identity to be safe in Seville, but if you understand the local culture you will be less likely to stick out as a “tourist.”

The most common type of crime you will encounter in Seville is pickpocketing or petty theft. Luckily, these crimes are typically nonviolent. Theft often happens in tourist areas, sometimes through scams intended to distract you while someone steals your phone, purse, or wallet. Read more about these scams here to make sure you don’t fall for them!

Feel prepared and comfortable for your time abroad in Seville!

*The EUSA emergency line and doctor assistance by an EUSA member is a service not included for Erasmus + and Exchange students.