Andorra Country Report

Andorra, officially the Principality of Andorra, is a small landlocked European nation situated in the heart of the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain. Andorra is a stable, democratic co-principality of monarchs in France and Spain. While Catalan is the official language, French, Spanish and also Portuguese are widely spoken. There are no internal or external threats to the nation. The country’s developed economy and low taxes make Andorra very attractive to foreign business investments. Tourism accounts for the main portion of the country’s GDP. Andorra is not a member of the European Union (EU), but enjoys a special relationship with it and uses the euro as its de facto currency. Infrastructure, while well-developed, can be hampered by harsh winter conditions.

The security risk in Andorra is negligible.

The vast majority of travel and operations in the country are conducted safely. Andorra does not face any internal or external threat.

The lack of an international airport within the country can render travel to Andorra. Entry to Andorra can only be done via Spain and France.

The roads are well-maintained and it is safe to drive in Andorra. During winter, roads may be hindered due to periodic snow and rain storms.

Andorra la Vella Port is a river port and it is very safe and reliable.

Utilities are good in Andorra.

There is a low threat of cyber attack towards Andorra.

While local infrastructure is well maintained, harsh weather conditions and periodic heavy rain and snowstorms generate a localized risk of travel and service disruptions. The risk of avalanches is highest from mid-winter to early summer, while landslides occur year-round, especially after heavy rain.

Adequate healthcare facilities are available in Andorra, but healthcare can be limited in rural areas. Serious injuries or cases may require evacuation to France or Spain. Pharmacies and online pharmacies are widely available. Prescriptions for medications must be obtained from a local doctor. Drinking water is generally safe in Andorra.

Andorra is a unitary multi-party parliamentary constitutional co-principality. The Prime Minister is the head of government and the co-princes are the heads of state. The co-princes are the Bishop of Urgell, named by the Vatican, and the President of France, elected by the French. The Prime Minister and the Executive Council form the government and exercise executive power. The unicameral parliament, or General Council, exercises legislative power. General elections take place once every four years. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are typically required to form the government. Government collapses are rare. State institutions are competent and effective and provide reliable services across the country.