How to Call an International Number?

An international call is a telephone call made from one country to another. This type of call involves connecting through a global telecommunications network, which often leads to higher costs compared to domestic calls.

The international phone number format involves dialing an exit code and country code before the person’s phone number. Exit code, also called an international access code for your country, lets the phone system know you are making an international call. Country code tells the system where the call should go (the country you are calling). Finally, the regular phone number helps connect to the person you want to reach.

Knowing how to dial out of the country empowers you to connect with people worldwide, conduct international business effectively, and help you stay prepared for emergencies while abroad.

Here are some of the reasons why understanding how to dial internationally is important:

If you frequently travel abroad or do business with international clients, understanding international dialing procedures is essential. It ensures smooth communication with your partners or clients abroad.

Many services like financial institutions, educational programs, and healthcare providers operate internationally. Making international calls can help you find information, ask questions, and get help from these organizations. Additionally, calling international helps you contact admissions, student support, or financial aid offices if you're studying abroad or planning to study.

If you're looking to maintain or expand your network personally or professionally, learning how to dial international numbers can help. Having international connections provides you with new perspectives, ideas, and opportunities for career advancement and business partnerships.

Knowing how to call overseas lets you connect with suppliers, distributors, or customers in different countries when involved in global trade or e-commerce. Maintaining a competitive edge in global markets requires effective communication, real-time problem-solving, and real-time resolution of issues.

Knowing how to dial internationally lets you keep in touch with loved ones abroad. You can also be at their side in cases of emergency, health issues, or financial emergencies, or just stay in touch if you can make an international phone call.

To call an international number, first dial your country's exit code, then the country code of the country you're calling, followed by the area code (if needed) and the local phone number.

Here is a short explanation of each step:

Exit codes are the first numbers you enter when making an international call. It tells your phone system that you want to call another country. Different countries have different exit codes. Some common exit codes are “011” for the United States/Canada, “00” for the United Kingdom, and “0011” for Australia.

After the exit code, dial the country code of the country you are calling. Every country has its own unique code. Usually, it has two digits or three digits, although some countries use one digit.

Area codes are usually 1 to 4 digits long and help direct your call to a specific region or city within that country.

(Note: In some places, area codes are a must for all calls, while in others, it is required only for landlines. So, before making a call, check if the country and city you're calling require an area code.)

And lastly, dial the phone number of the person or business you're trying to reach. The phone number is unique to each individual. It is typically between four to seven digits, depending on the country.

For instance, calling from the United States to the United Kingdom, you need to
 

• Dial 011 (the exit code for the U.S.).
• Dial 44 (the country code for the U.K.).
• Dial the area code (e.g., 20 for London).
• Dial the local phone number (e.g., 1234 5678).

So, the full number you need to dial is “ 011-44-20-1234-5678.”

Dialing an international number can vary depending on the device you're using. The steps might differ slightly if you're calling from a landline, a mobile phone, or using an app. Some devices, like smartphones, may automatically add the exit code, while others might require you to dial it manually. Knowing how to dial correctly on each device will ensure your call goes smoothly.

To make an international call on a landline phone, simply start by dialing the country exit code, destination’s country code, area code, and phone number.
 

1. Start by dialing your country’s exit code (e.g., 011 for the U.S. and Canada, 00 for the U.K.).
    
2. Next, dial the country code for the country you're calling (e.g., 44 for the U.K., 91 for India).
    
3. If the country you're calling uses area codes, enter the area code for the region or city.
    
4. Finally, dial the local phone number of the person or business you're calling.

To make an international call on a cell phone, dial your country's exit code or press and hold 0 to use the "+" symbol, followed by the destination country's code, area code, and local phone number, and then press the call button.
 

1. First, enter your country's exit code (e.g., 011 for the U.S. and Canada).
   
   (Note: Most smartphones let you use the "+" symbol by pressing and holding the "0" key, which replaces the exit code.)
    
2. Next, dial the country code for the country you are calling (e.g., 44 for the U.K., 91 for India).
    
3. Then, enter the area code for the region or city you’re calling (if needed).
    
4. Dial the local phone number of the person or business you are trying to reach.
    
5. Press the call button to connect your call.

How to Dial Internationally Using an iPhone?
 

To make a call overseas using an iPhone, follow the following steps:
 

• Open the phone app on your iPhone.
• Press and hold the “0” key until the "+" symbol appears. The "+" automatically adds the exit code for your country.
• Dial the country code for the country you're calling (e.g., 44 for the U.K., 91 for India).
• Enter the code for the region or city of the country you're calling (if needed).
• Finally, dial the local (regular) phone number.
• Tap the call button to connect the call.

How to Dial Internationally Using an Android Phone?

To dial internationally using an Android phone, follow the below-mentioned steps:
 

• Open the dialer app on your Android phone.
• Dial and hold the “0” key to insert the "+" symbol, which replaces the need for an exit code.
• Dial the country code for the country you’re trying to reach.
• Add the area code of the country or region you’re calling (if needed).
• Enter the remaining part of the local number.
• Tap the call icon to make the call.

How to Dial International Numbers Using VoIP Cloud Telephony Services?

VoIP services allow you to make online calls rather than traditional phone lines. The popular VoIP apps for making international calls include Viber, WhatsApp, and Skype, which allow you to make calls without worrying about the high cost.

Cloud telephony services like Calilio, RingCentral, Nextiva, and Dialpad also offer VoIP to make international calls through virtual phone numbers.

Here are the steps to dial international numbers using VoIP cloud telephony apps:
 

• Download and Install the App: First, download the VoIP or cloud telephony app that meets your requirements.
• Create an Account: Register on the app by providing basic details like your username, phone number, and email address.
• Open the Dialer: Go to the app dialer interface or select the contact you wish to call internationally.
• Dial the Country Code: Enter the country code for the country you are calling.
  
  (Note: Most apps will automatically add the + symbol for you (which replaces the exit code).
• Enter the Area Code and Local Number: After the country code, enter the area code (if required) and the local phone number of the person you want to reach.
• Start the Call: Press the call button to connect the call through the internet using VoIP.

Calling international can be expensive, but with the right tools, making free international calls is possible. Online communication apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Facebook Messenger offer free voice and video calls. And, VoIP services like Google Voice, Calilio, and Ooma provide affordable international calling plans.

Internet-based service apps (WhatsApp, Viber, and Skype) allow you to make free international calls via the Internet. However,  both you and the person you're calling should be using the same app. These apps use VoIP technology to route calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data, saving you money on international calls.

To make a free international call, you only need to download one of these apps, create an account, and connect with the person you want to call. Your calls will be free if you have a stable internet connection.

Another option is to use international calling cards, which allow you to make affordable international calls by purchasing a call per minutes in advance. These prepaid cards often offer lower rates for making international calls. They can be bought online or at convenience stores.

So, how it works? First, you buy a card with prepaid minutes. The card gives you a local or toll-free number to dial. Afterward, you enter a PIN from the card and the international phone number, including the country code.

International calling cards come very handy for calling landlines or when you don't have internet access.

Making international calls doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. However, whether you're calling from a landline, mobile phone, or using internet-based VoIP services, understanding the correct dialing format is essential.

Following the steps provided and using tools like free communication apps or international calling cards, you can stay connected with family, friends, or business contacts worldwide without breaking the bank. Remember to check your plan to avoid unnecessary charges and consider using VoIP services like Calilio for cost-effective and flexible international communication.

Consider using internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype, which allow free calls over Wi-Fi. You can also use international calling cards or VoIP services like Google Voice and Vonage for affordable rates.

The best option for international calls depends on your needs. For free calls, apps like WhatsApp or Skype are great if both parties use the app. If you're calling landlines or need reliable business service, VoIP services like RingCentral or Calilio are good options.

You can call another country by dialing your country’s exit code, followed by the destination country's code, the area code, and the remaining phone number.

You can avoid international call fees using free internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or Facebook Messenger over Wi-Fi. Alternatively, VoIP services often offer affordable rates for international calls.

Common issues when making international calls include poor call quality, incorrect dialing codes, or restrictions from your mobile provider. Calls may not go through due to blocked international numbers or connection issues.

To troubleshoot international calling issues, use the correct exit and country codes. If the call quality is poor, switch to a stronger internet connection or use a different calling method, like VoIP. And if your international calls are blocked, contact your phone provider to resolve the issue.