Studying abroad is an exciting adventure filled with new experiences and challenges. One crucial skill every student should have in their toolkit is knowing how to make international phone calls. Whether you’re reaching out to family back home, contacting local services, or handling an emergency, being able to dial internationally is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate international calls with ease.
Why International Calling Matters
While texting and internet-based communication are common, knowing how to make a phone call is invaluable. Internet access isn’t always guaranteed, and in emergencies, a phone call might be your best option. Here’s everything you need to know to stay connected.
Steps to Make an International Call
Making an international call involves a few specific steps. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Dial the International Direct Dial (IDD) Code: This is the code you use to call out of your country. In the US, the IDD code is 011.
- Enter the Country Code: Each country has a unique code. For instance, the UK is +44, Japan is +81, and France is +33.
- Include the Area Code (if needed): Some countries use area codes for specific regions.
- Dial the Local Number: This is the recipient’s phone number.
Example: Calling Brazil from the US
- Dial 011 (IDD code)
- Enter 55 (country code for Brazil)
- Add the area code (e.g., 21 for Rio de Janeiro)
- Dial the local number
So, to call a number in Rio de Janeiro, you would dial: 011 – 55 – 21 – XXXXXXXX.
Example: Calling the US from Brazil
- Dial 00 (IDD code for Brazil)
- Enter 1 (country code for the US)
- Add the area code (e.g., 212 for New York)
- Dial the local number
So, to call a number in New York, you would dial: 00 – 1 – 212 – XXXXXXX.
FAQs About International Calling
- What is a Country Code?
Country codes are numerical prefixes that route your call to the correct country. For example, the US uses +1, while Australia uses +61. Knowing these codes ensures your call reaches the right destination.
- How to Make International Calls from a Cell Phone?
The steps are similar to those for a landline. However, check with your mobile provider to ensure your plan supports international calls and to understand any costs involved.
- How to Call a US Cell Phone While Abroad?
To call a US cell phone from abroad, dial the exit code for the country you’re in, followed by the US country code (1), and then the area code and phone number.
- How to Make Free International Calls?
Apps like WhatsApp, Viber, and Skype offer free international calling using the internet. These apps can save you money and are often more convenient than traditional phone calls.
Comprehensive List of Country Codes
- Afghanistan: +93
- Albania: +355
- Algeria: +213
- American Samoa: +684
- Andorra: +376
- Angola: +244
- Argentina: +54
- Armenia: +374
- Aruba: +297
- Ascension Island: +247
- Australia: +61
- Austria: +43
- Azerbaijan: +994
- Bahamas: +1-242
- Bahrain: +973
- Bangladesh: +880
- Barbados: +1-246
- Belarus: +375
- Belgium: +32
- Belize: +501
- Benin: +229
- Bermuda: +1-441
- Bhutan: +975
- Bolivia: +591
- Bosnia and Herzegovina: +387
- Botswana: +267
- Brazil: +55
- British Virgin Islands: +1-284
- Brunei Darussalam: +673
- Bulgaria: +359
- Burkina Faso: +226
- Burundi: +257
- Cambodia: +855
- Cameroon: +237
- Canada: +1
- Cape Verde: +238
- Cayman Islands: +1-345
- Central African Republic: +236
- Chad: +235
- Chile: +56
- China (People’s Republic): +86
- Colombia: +57
- Comoros and Mayotte: +269
- Congo: +242
- Cook Islands: +682
- Costa Rica: +506
- Croatia: +385
- Cuba: +53
- Cyprus: +357
- Czech Republic: +420
- Denmark: +45
- Diego Garcia: +246
- Dominica: +1-767
- Dominican Republic: +1-809, +1-829, +1-849
- Djibouti: +253
- Ecuador: +593
- Egypt: +20
- El Salvador: +503
- Equatorial Guinea: +240
- Eritrea: +291
- Estonia: +372
- Ethiopia: +251
- Falkland Islands: +500
- Faroe Islands: +298
- Fiji: +679
- Finland: +358
- France: +33
- French Guiana: +594
- French Polynesia: +689
- Gabon: +241
- Gambia: +220
- Georgia: +995
- Germany: +49
- Ghana: +233
- Gibraltar: +350
- Greece: +30
- Greenland: +299
- Grenada: +1-473
- Guam: +1-671
- Guatemala: +502
- Guinea: +224
- Guinea-Bissau: +245
- Guyana: +592
- Haiti: +509
- Honduras: +504
- Hong Kong: +852
- Hungary: +36
- Iceland: +354
- India: +91
- Indonesia: +62
- Iran: +98
- Iraq: +964
- Ireland: +353
- Israel: +972
- Italy: +39
- Ivory Coast: +225
- Jamaica: +1-876
- Japan: +81
- Jordan: +962
- Kazakhstan: +7
- Kenya: +254
- Kiribati: +686
- Kuwait: +965
- Kyrgyzstan: +996
- Laos: +856
- Latvia: +371
- Lebanon: +961
- Lesotho: +266
- Liberia: +231
- Libya: +218
- Liechtenstein: +423
- Lithuania: +370
- Luxembourg: +352
- Macau: +853
- Macedonia: +389
- Madagascar: +261
- Malawi: +265
- Malaysia: +60
- Maldives: +960
- Mali: +223
- Malta: +356
- Marshall Islands: +692
- Martinique: +596
- Mauritania: +222
- Mauritius: +230
- Mexico: +52
- Micronesia: +691
- Moldova: +373
- Monaco: +377
- Mongolia: +976
- Montserrat: +1-664
- Morocco: +212
- Mozambique: +258
- Myanmar (Burma): +95
- Namibia: +264
- Nauru: +674
- Nepal: +977
- Netherlands: +31
- Netherlands Antilles: +599
- New Caledonia: +687
- New Zealand: +64
- Nicaragua: +505
- Niger: +227
- Nigeria: +234
- Niue: +683
- North Korea: +850
- Norway: +47
- Oman: +968
- Pakistan: +92
- Palau: +680
- Panama: +507
- Papua New Guinea: +675
- Paraguay: +595
- Peru: +51
- Philippines: +63
- Poland: +48
- Portugal: +351
- Puerto Rico: +1-787, +1-939
- Qatar: +974
- Reunion: +262
- Romania: +40
- Russia: +7
- Rwanda: +250
- Saint Kitts and Nevis: +1-869
- Saint Lucia: +1-758
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: +1-784
- Samoa: +685
- San Marino: +378
- Sao Tome and Principe: +239
- Saudi Arabia: +966
- Senegal: +221
- Serbia: +381
- Seychelles: +248
- Sierra Leone: +232
- Singapore: +65
- Slovakia: +421
- Slovenia: +386
- Solomon Islands: +677
- Somalia: +252
- South Africa: +27
- South Korea: +82
- Spain: +34
- Sri Lanka: +94
- Sudan: +249
- Suriname: +597
- Swaziland: +268
- Sweden: +46
- Switzerland: +41
- Syria: +963
- Taiwan: +886
- Tajikistan: +992
- Tanzania: +255
- Thailand: +66
- Togo: +228
- Tokelau: +690
- Tonga: +676
- Trinidad and Tobago: +1-868
- Tunisia: +216
- Turkey: +90
- Turkmenistan: +993
- Tuvalu: +688
- Uganda: +256
- Ukraine: +380
- United Arab Emirates: +971
- United Kingdom: +44
- United States: +1
- Uruguay: +598
- Uzbekistan: +998
- Vanuatu: +678
- Vatican City: +39
- Venezuela: +58
- Vietnam: +84
- Yemen: +967
- Zambia: +260
- Zimbabwe: +263
Tips for Cost-Effective International Calls
Use Free Apps
Several apps allow free international calls using Wi-Fi or mobile data. Some popular options include:
- WhatsApp: For voice and video calls, as well as messaging.
- Viber: Similar to WhatsApp but with additional features like Viber Out for calling landlines.
- Skype: Great for video calls and also offers low-cost calling to landlines and mobiles.
- FaceTime: For Apple users, allows video and audio calls.
- Google Duo: A user-friendly option for high-quality video calls.
Check Your Mobile Plan
Before you leave, talk to your mobile provider about international plans. Many providers offer packages that include international calls and data, which can save you money compared to pay-as-you-go rates.
Use Local SIM Cards
Consider buying a local SIM card in your destination country. This can provide cheaper rates for local and international calls, and you can avoid high roaming fees.
Explore VOIP Services
Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) services can be a cost-effective way to make international calls. Services like Vonage, VOIPBuster, and VOIPStunt offer various plans that can suit different needs and budgets.
Staying Connected in an Emergency
In an emergency, knowing how to make an international call can be a lifesaver. Here are some tips:
- Keep Important Numbers Handy: Save important numbers, such as your home country’s embassy, local emergency services, and family contacts.
- Learn the Local Emergency Number: Emergency numbers vary by country, so make sure you know the local one (e.g., 112 in many European countries, 999 in the UK).
- Have a Backup Plan: If your phone doesn’t work, know where to find public phones or how to get help from local authorities.
Additional Resources for Study Abroad Students
Preparing for Your Trip
Before you leave, ensure you have all necessary documents, including passports, visas, and health insurance information. Research your destination’s culture, language, and local customs to better integrate and avoid misunderstandings.
Managing Finances Abroad
Open a bank account that doesn’t charge international fees, and always have some local currency on hand. Use credit cards that offer favorable exchange rates and notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid having your card blocked.
Staying Safe
Enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrolment Program (STEP) to receive updates and help from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow local safety advice.
Connecting with Other Students
Join local student groups and online forums to meet other international students and share experiences. These connections can provide support and make your time abroad more enjoyable.
Health and Well-being
Ensure you have adequate health insurance that covers you abroad. Familiarize yourself with local healthcare facilities and know how to access them in case of illness or injury.
Conclusion
Being able to make international calls is a critical skill for study abroad students. Whether for staying in touch with family, handling everyday tasks, or dealing with emergencies, this guide provides the information you need to stay connected. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the steps and tools available to ensure a smooth and enjoyable study abroad experience.
For more tips and resources, visit Study Abroad 101 and explore our blog for additional guides and advice on making the most of your time abroad. Safe travels!