Crisis prevention made easy: ELEFAND app for safe trips abroad

Crisis prevention made easy: ELEFAND app for safe trips abroad

Ensuring your own safety abroad is becoming increasingly important for many travelers. The Federal Foreign Office therefore recommends that German citizens use the “ELEFAND” app to prepare for crises when traveling abroad. The app, which has been available for smartphones and tablets since June 12, 2024, is intended to enable easy registration and updating of travel data. It is free to use and is available for both Android and iOS. This means travelers can receive help more quickly in the event of a crisis.

“ELEFAND” stands for “Electronic Recording of Germans Abroad” and offers the option of storing personal data as well as travel information such as contact options, travel destinations and whereabouts. This information is crucial if help is needed in the event of a crisis, as it allows authorities to know where the affected people are. Users also have the option of entering multiple travel stages, for example on cruises.

Importance of registration

The Federal Foreign Office issues a clear warning: crises can occur unexpectedly and the existing infrastructure can be overloaded or damaged. It is therefore crucial to get on the crisis preparedness list before starting a trip. This enables information and support to be provided quickly in an emergency. Registration can be done easily via the website or directly in the ELEFAND app.

The entries in the crisis preparedness list are automatically deleted at the end of the trip. However, the account can be reused for future trips. The app also allows you to store emergency contacts, which can be important in the event of a crisis.

Communication in crisis situations

In the event of a crisis event, ELEFAND offers the possibility for authorities to reach registered users quickly and efficiently. In addition, logged in users receive letters from compatriots with important information by email or SMS. A consulate finder in the app shows the responsible German contact abroad. It is also recommended that Germans living abroad permanently include relevant information about federal and European elections in the app.

It is important to emphasize that there is no obligation to register for Germans abroad, but registration is strongly recommended in order to be able to receive consular assistance in the event of a crisis or disaster. This also includes entry on the crisis preparedness list, regardless of the country of travel and the security situation.

Finally, those responsible at the Foreign Office appeal to everyone to register before going abroad. Given the limited internet availability in crisis areas, the app can be an important source of support and information in such situations.

For more information and to register, please visit the pages Mercury and Foreign Office.