What is the difference between SOS Holidays and calling your consulate?
SOS Expat & Travelers1 min
In summary
The consulate and SOS Holidays play complementary but very different roles.
- Availability: The consulate is open during office hours (often 9am-12pm on weekdays). SOS Holidays is available 24/7.
- Response time: The consulate may take hours to call back. SOS Holidays connects you in under 5 minutes.
- Local expertise: The consulate protects you as a national but doesn't intervene in private disputes. SOS Holidays connects you with a local expert (local law, customs, procedures).
- Type of help: The consulate helps with emergency official documents. SOS Holidays helps with disputes, local legal questions, and practical guidance.
- Language: The consulate speaks your national language. SOS Holidays is available in 9 languages.
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