Buzz
Calling China might appear complicated at first glance, but it’s actually quite simple. To place a call, start by entering the exit code of your country, followed by the country code 86, and then the landline or mobile number you wish to reach. Alternatively, you can use a Wi-Fi-enabled app to make the call. Both methods ensure you can effortlessly connect with anyone in China.
Steps
Calling via Phone
Enter the exit code of your country. The exit code, also known as the international prefix or dial-out code, is the number that allows you to make calls outside your country. Each country has a unique exit code. For instance, the U.S. uses 011, Nigeria uses 009, and Vietnam uses 00.
- You can find the exit code by contacting your telecommunications provider or conducting a quick online search. Simply type your country’s name followed by “exit code” or “international dialing code.”
Dial 86 to connect to China. This is the country code for China. Country codes typically consist of 1-3 digits. This code identifies the country you are calling; each country has a unique code.
Determine if the number you are calling is a landline or mobile number. In China, mobile numbers have 11 digits (excluding the exit and country codes) and always start with 1, while landline numbers usually have 6-8 digits (excluding the exit and country codes).
- It’s crucial to know whether the number is a landline or mobile, as you won’t need to dial an area code for mobile numbers in China.
Dial the mobile number to make the call. If you’re calling from Vietnam to China, the number you’ll dial will look something like this: 00-86-155-5555-5555. Here, 00 is the exit code, 86 is the country code, and 155-5555-5555 is the mobile number.
Dial the area or city code for landline calls. The area code narrows down the specific region in China you’re calling.
- Area codes in China consist of 2-4 digits. For example, Shanghai’s area code is 21, while Ganzhou’s is 0787.
- The Chinese government portal provides a complete list of area codes. You can view it at http://www.china.org.cn/english/MATERIAL/120745.htm
Dial the landline number after the area code. For example, if calling a landline in Shanghai from Vietnam, you would dial: 00-86-21-55-5555. Here, 00 is the exit code, 86 is the country code, 21 is Shanghai’s area code, and 55-5555 is the landline number.
Check the local time. Although China spans five geographical time zones, the entire country operates on a single standard time known as Beijing Time, which is 8 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+8). For example, if it’s 1 PM in London (GMT), it’s 9 PM in China. If it’s 1 PM in Washington, DC (EDT), it’s 1 AM in China. Vietnam is 1 hour behind China. Always check the local time before calling to avoid inconvenient hours.
- Many websites allow you to check the current time in China, making it easy to ensure you call at an appropriate time.
Consider purchasing an international calling card. These cards are available online or at convenience stores. They often offer cheaper rates than your phone carrier and are prepaid, so you won’t be surprised by unexpectedly high phone bills.
Use apps to call China
Ensure you’re connected to Wi-Fi. If you have a Wi-Fi-enabled device, you can use apps to make calls to China. Make sure your phone, tablet, laptop, or other device is connected to Wi-Fi.
- If you don’t have Wi-Fi at home, look for a Wi-Fi hotspot at a library, café, or restaurant and connect there.
- Remember that many apps like Facebook or WhatsApp are banned in China. Ensure the app you choose works in China.
Use Skype to call China. Log in to Skype and click the phone icon. This will open a dial pad. The screen will also display the call rates, which vary depending on the selected country.
- Click the country name above the dial pad. A dropdown menu will list countries; select China, and the country code will be automatically entered.
- Enter the area code (for landline calls) and the phone number you want to call. Remember, if calling a mobile number, the first digit must be 1.
- After entering the number, click the green call button, and your call will be connected.
Call China using FaceTime. If you own an Apple device, the FaceTime app is pre-installed. Open the app and log in with your Apple account. If you’re using an iPhone, you’ll be logged in automatically.
- Enter the phone number or email address of the person you want to FaceTime, then tap the video or audio icon to start the call. If you choose the audio icon, the call will be voice-only.
- To use FaceTime, the person you’re calling must also have FaceTime.
