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Whether you're traveling in the U.S. and need to call abroad or you're a resident looking to connect with another country, there are various methods to dial internationally. Once you understand the basic steps for international dialing, you'll be able to call anyone using any device.
Steps
Dialing Internationally on Mobile or Landline
Dial “011” on the keypad. This is the international direct dialing (IDD) prefix for the United States, used before the phone number. This prefix indicates that the number you're calling is outside the U.S.
- Remember that “011” is specific to the North American Numbering Plan. If you're calling from a country other than the U.S., look up that country's IDD code.
- Sometimes international numbers include a “+” symbol at the beginning. If using a mobile phone, you can enter the “+” (usually on the same key as “0”) instead of “011”. Alternatively, you can replace the “+” with “011” if preferred.
Add the country code. Identify the country code of the destination you're calling. This number varies depending on the country but generally consists of 1-3 digits.
- For example, if you're calling Australia, the country code is “61”. You would dial 011 (IDD) followed by 61 (country code).
- Note: Some countries share the same country code. For instance, the U.S., Canada, most Caribbean regions, Guam, and other U.S. territories all use the country code “1”.
- Additional digits might be required if the country has specific rules for mobile versus landline calls. For example, in Mexico, you need to add a “1” after the country code (“52”) to call a mobile number.
Dial the area/city code (if applicable). After entering the IDD and country code, input the city or area code (usually included as part of the local number). This narrows down the call to a specific city or region within the country.
- Area/city codes typically consist of 1-3 digits.
- Note: Smaller countries may not use area or city codes, in which case you only need to dial the provided number.
- Note: If the phone number doesn't include an area/city code, ask the person directly instead of guessing based on their location. Their current address or hometown might not match the area code, as they could have purchased the phone elsewhere.
Enter the remaining phone number. Dial the rest of the phone number after entering the IDD, country code, and area/city code. Finally, press the call button to connect.
- Note: International phone numbers may be longer or shorter than the standard 7-digit U.S. format.
- If the number starts with a “0”, skip it and dial the remaining digits. The “0” is often used for domestic calls in many countries but isn't required for international dialing.
- For example, to call the British Museum in London, UK, from the U.S., you would dial the IDD “011”, the UK country code “44”, the London area code “20”, and the local number “7323 8299”. The complete number would be 011 44 20 7323 8299.
Using Online Calling Services
Use Skype to make international calls. You can directly dial international numbers using the Skype app on your computer or mobile device. You’ll need to purchase Skype credit or subscribe to a monthly plan to cover call costs.
- Open the dial pad in the Skype app, which resembles a standard phone keypad. Select the destination country from the dropdown menu. The country code will be added automatically, so you only need to enter the remaining digits, including the area code. No IDD is required.
- If the recipient has a Skype account, you can skip dialing entirely and make free calls. Simply add them as a contact and initiate a free voice or video call anytime.
Try using alternative services like MagicApp or PopTox. You can use other Internet-based platforms to call international numbers. These apps can be used on computers with an Internet connection or mobile devices with a data plan to call regular phone numbers.
- Consider services like PopTox if you want to call directly from your computer browser without downloading any apps or software.
- Explore mobile apps such as MagicApp and Talkatone for free international calls. Alternatively, you can try services like Google Hangouts, Rebtel, or Vonage for affordable calling options.
Consider online services that don’t require a phone number. Ask the person you’re calling if they use any online applications that don’t rely on traditional phone numbers. These VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services allow you to register and call other users within the same app for free.
- Try popular services like Google Hangouts, Viber, or Facebook Messenger. These apps only require you to sign up to make free calls to other users on the same platform.
- Ensure both parties have a stable Internet connection before initiating a call via the app on a computer or phone. Data charges may apply if you use the app on a mobile device without Wi-Fi.
Determine the cost of calling
Check if the international number is a mobile or landline. Determine whether the foreign number is a landline or mobile phone. This will affect the rates you’re charged when calling from the U.S. and the dialing method.
- International calls to mobile phones are often more expensive than calls to landlines. Identify the type of phone you’re calling and choose a landline if possible.
- Some countries have specific standards to distinguish landlines from mobile numbers, usually through one or more prefix digits.
Ask your phone carrier about international calling rates. Speak with the service provider of the phone you’ll use to make international calls before dialing. Inquire with both landline and mobile carriers (if you have both), as their rates may differ.
- If you plan to call internationally frequently, ask your provider about international calling plans. Alternatively, inquire about the charges for making a one-time international call.
- Some carriers may provide specific instructions on how to dial internationally. Note: When making an external call from a company landline, you may need to dial “9” first.
Explore international calling plans in detail. Conduct preliminary research on all fees associated with international calling plans, prepaid calling cards, and other calling options. It’s crucial to understand exactly what you’ll be charged for overseas calls, especially if you call frequently.
- Be cautious with carrier-provided international calling plans. While advertised rates may seem competitive, hidden fees or additional charges for these services can be concerning. These plans are only cost-effective if you make a certain number of calls each month.
- International calling cards and online services are often more affordable than mobile or landline plans. Prepaid cards ensure you only pay for what you use, while Internet-based services may offer free or flexible pricing options. Regardless of your choice, make sure you fully understand all policies and costs.
Tips
- Familiarize yourself with international dialing codes. While this information is readily available online, searching for it every time you call can be time-consuming. You don’t need to memorize every country code, just the ones you use frequently.
- Check the time zone. It might be midday for you, but it could be midnight for the person you’re calling. It’s impolite to wake someone up for a non-urgent matter.
- Research general cultural norms. You might unintentionally make a social faux pas, so it’s better to be cautious.
- For example: If you’re calling Guatemala from the U.S., dial the U.S. exit code (011), followed by Guatemala’s country code (502), and then the recipient’s phone number. The sequence would look like this: 011-502-xxxx-xxxx
