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International Calling Codes: A Complete Guide

31 Jan 2025


Do you know what an international dialing code is and what its role is in making an international money transfer? In today's world, staying connected with the globe has become crucial for many purposes. People need to communicate with distant relatives or for business purposes. People are connected through networks and signals. For successful calling, international calling codes are used. International calling codes are like prefixes, which are always entered before dialing the actual number of a person. International codes are used to specify the calling region. Each country or region uses a specific calling code that is not accessible to others.

Country phone codes may comprise two or more digits. The number of countries on this Earth varies between 193 to 239. However, there are 249 regions that are using different calling codes to connect with the world. A person calling someone in another country must enter that specific region's calling code to make a connection. Similarly, your calling code will change if you are moving from your hometown to another region. In this article, you will learn about the working of calling code and its importance:

Why are international Calling Codes Used?

International calling codes are used to eliminate the confusion that can occur during international communication. Many people dial the number of their loved ones simultaneously, which can disrupt the process. It may cause delays, or servers may connect your line with the wrong number since many phone numbers can overlap across countries. So, assigning codes to different regions has become easier for people. These codes ensure that the right person is connected instantly without any delay.

Supports International Calls

Calling codes support international codes. Many businesses organize phone meetings, which require Country phone codes for the specification. It helps the people of two different countries connect. Each country has a unique code that ensures a calling connection in a particular region.

Connecting Mobile Networks

Every mobile network follows an exit code, which helps it connect with the global world. A calling code helps individuals connect to the network and access international calling.

Supporting Emergency Services

International calling codes also support emergency international calling requirements. Some countries have emergency phone numbers that require international dialing codes to reach them. These codes help connect with satellites as soon as possible and direct the person to the international receiver. 

Ensuring Security for Transactions

International dialing codes are used to secure international transactions such as remittances. An OTP or a PIN code is sent to the receiver number having the calling code. This code ensures the code reaches its destination. Global money transfer codes are sent via SMS to the recipient's phone number using the correct country code.  

Read more about the importance of secure money transfer.

The Evolution of International Calling Codes

The concept of international calling codes was introduced in 1960. The team at the International Telecoms Union introduced this system to ensure safe and secure cellular calling and to organize and simplify global communication. Each country was issued a unique calling code, which people had to enter each time they called or dialed a number.

Structure of Calling Code

Each country follows a specific structure for calling code, and it works with the following:

Exit Code + Country Code + Area Code (if required) + Local Number

Exit Code

The exit code is the first part of the country-calling codes. It is usually comprised of 00 or has a + sign in the beginning, such as +9 or ++. The exit code tells the calling server you are making an international phone call.

  • The exit code of Canada is 011
  • The exit code of the UK is 00

Country Code

After the exit code, the country code is entered, with  1 to 3 digits. The country code helps in identifying which country the call is routed to, such as:

  • Country codes of the United States and Canada are +1
  • The country code of the United Kingdom is +44

Area Code

International phone number formats also include area numbers or city codes to specify the region of the country where the call is routed. However, it is totally optional. These codes vary depending on the country and region. Not all countries use area codes.

Local Number

Local phone number means the personal contact number of a caller ( senders or receivers). Each individual has a unique phone number, and its length depends on the country’s networking system.

Working on Global Calling Codes

International dialing codes help make successful calls. To make an international call, a caller performs the following steps:

  • Enters the exit code to notify that you are making an international call
  • The second step is to enter the unique code of the country to specify the call destination
  • Lastly, individuals must enter the receiver's unique number to make a successful call.

Signal Routing Process

Once the sender initiates a call, it transfers through several routes. First, it reaches the sender's telecom service provider, who forwards it to the International Gateway Exchange (IGE) after identifying the international call. The IGE is like a central call room for international calls. It reads the country code to determine the destination country and forwards the call to the telecom provider of the receiving country, who again forwards it to the receiver. 

Recipient's Network Connection

Throughout the International communication process, the sender and receiver telecom service plays a significant role in maintaining the call. They ensure correct routing and signal clarity and generate a bill based on the duration of the call.

Benefits of Using International Calling Code

Calling codes is a standard international calling system that offers several benefits for ensuring smooth global connectivity:

  • International calling codes allow people to connect across borders without delays or connectivity problems. Without these codes, identifying the destined calling country takes a lot of time, which can lead to a wrong connection.
  • Calling codes worldwide gives each country a unique identity and helps telecom services identify the country swiftly.
  • The standard calling system eliminates confusion and ensures calls reach the intended recipient.
  • International calling codes are helpful for meeting urgent international calling needs. Sometimes, immigrants living in distant countries have to connect with their families in emergency cases or to confirm an online money transfer. In such emergencies, calling codes help individuals connect with their families instantly.
  • Calling codes has made international businesses easier by connecting them with the globe. Country calling codes have made it easier to communicate with clients, partners, and customers in different countries.
  • These codes are also used in internet calling, ensuring call signals are directed to the right individual.
  • These codes are used for making transactions in many banking apps and services and generate and send a secret code to the sender to confirm the transaction. These messages are also sent considering the country codes.
  • International calling codes enable families and friends to stay connected with each other, overcoming the distance between countries.
  • International dialing codes have made travel easier. Individuals can now contact tourists, companies, and managers of other countries while living in one country.
  • International calling codes are universally accessible. All you need is your personal contact number to reach others.

How to Find an International Calling Code?

Finding an international calling code is relatively simple. These codes are readily available on many websites. You can search for it on Google and find or follow the below process:

Identify the exit code of the country to which you want to send a call. You can search for the exit code on Google. Country phone codes are prefixes that are entered before entering the personal number of the receiver. This code will inform your telecom provider that you request an international call.

Search Engines

Search engines like Google and Safari are the best ways to find an international calling code. Enter the country's name and the “country code” command to find one.

Check Official Telecommunications Websites

Many telecommunication websites provide country-specific calling codes to help users find international calling codes. You can also visit the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)website to find the calling codes.

Can You Make a Phone Call Without an International Calling Code?

It is not possible to make a phone call without an international calling code. The international calling code is essential for directing your call to the correct country. You may connect with the wrong receiver if you try to make a phone call without country phone codes.

Popular International Calling Codes

Here is the list of the popular international calling codes across the world:

  • +1  United States
  • +86  China
  • +44  United Kingdom
  • +61  Australia
  • +81  Japan
  • +91  India
  • +49  Germany
  • +33  France
  • +34 Spain
  • +52 Mexico
  • +54 Argentina

Special Codes and Their Usage

Some codes are not specific to any country or location and are used for particular purposes, such as:

+800 dialing code is used to make free international calling. Many companies have also set their calling codes for reliable international communication.

Common Challenges and Solutions in International Dialing

Although international calling has made connecting with people across the globe easier. However, individuals may face challenges in routing their first international call:

  • Finding the exact exit code number can be challenging for some people
  • The time difference between the countries can also cause problems with international calls.
  • International calls are usually more expensive than domestic calls, as they must pass through different telecom providers and require international calling access.

Solutions

You can confirm the international dialing code from the receiver or find it on search engines or telecom websites by searching “country calling code.” Always consider the time zone of the receiving country before initiating any call to avoid delays and overlaps.

You can make international calls through apps like WhatsApp, Imo, Zoom, or Viber to avoid expenses and additional costs. These apps require free internet access.

How to Use Calling Codes?

Using calling codes is simple and follows a simple structure. Before using a calling code, you must know its structure, which consists of an exit code, country code, area number, and receiver number. Once you find all the codes, enter them in a sequence and make the call. You can also seek help from a telecom service provider to learn how to make a call abroad. The central part of any international call is its exit number and country number. These prefixes are necessary for international calls.

Tips for Making International Calls Efficiently

To make efficient calls, you must ensure great care and follow the tips below:

  • Always ensure dialing the whole complete number following International phone number formats
  • Send a message to the receiver for confirmation. Calling apps like WhatsApp, Imo, Zoom, Skype, or Viber can help.
  • Before making an international call, ensure you have enough credit in your account. Many telecom providers offer international calling plans with discounted rates. Availing discount offers will help you make calls at low prices.
  • Always learn the process of making international calls and ensure whether your telecom provider supports the global call.

Role of International Calling Code in Remittance Transfer

International calling codes also play a critical role in remittance transfer. It's like an additional security system when a sender has to send money online across the globe. For completing a transaction, remittance services require the contact number of the receiver so they can ensure the authenticity of the recipient. Sending a message without proper country phone codes is not possible.

Beneficiary Identification

Expats usually send a considerable amount, which requires proper security. The correct international calling code ensures that you send money to the right person.

Commencing with Customer Service

Remittance services have to connect with people worldwide, so country calling codes help them ensure transactions. 

Read more about tips for safe and secure remittance.

2FA and Multi-Factor Authentication

Banks and remittance services send their customers a code or PIN for multiple security checks. This code is sent through an international number requiring the proper country code to ensure that the number is to the right person. Moreover, receivers have to enter the confirmation by following a time limit, such as within 60 seconds before the code expires. Calling codes help in making a quick call with an instant message to the receiver so they can quickly enter the number.

Mobile Wallets

To link a mobile wallet for remittance, it is necessary to add the country code to ensure smooth communication and transactions.

International calling codes play a prominent role in making a successful international call. Each country has a specific code that acts as a prefix and is added before entering the recipient number. Country codes follow the exit code, area code, and local number code formats. These codes eliminate the time consumed in finding the intended destination country for the sender. Without these codes, making a global call would not be possible. Calling codes are readily available on search engines and telecommunication websites. You can type the name of the country, and the command to find the calling code will help you find the number quickly.

Stay Connected Worldwide: The Power of Country Calling Codes

In this world, calling codes has made staying connected with distant family members easier. These codes are used to specify the origin where a person wants to make a call. Many businesses and immigrants are connected to each other through international calls. Making an international call with the correct code reduces the time needed to find the country of origin. Individuals must know how to use calling codes to make a successful call. Users must always follow the format of adding the exit code, country code, area code, and, lastly, the recipient's unique number.

There are numerous advantages of country-calling codes. The main thing is that it helps deal with emergency situations and for keeping the security of money transfers. However, people may face challenges in finding the correct calling code. Moreover, international calls are expensive, but the alternative is to make international calls through internet calling websites to overcome the cost. Always confirm with your telecom service provider if they support international calling because when you initiate a global code, it is the responsibility of the telecom providers to forward the call internationally. Following the Global calling tips will help you ensure you have a call on time.

FAQs

What is international calling?

International calling means making a phone call to a person who lives in another country and follows a different calling code. Each country has a specific country calling code which is necessary to be added before making any call.

How to make an international call?

You can make an international code by entering the recipient's region's exit, country, and area codes. After adding these codes, you have to enter the personal contact number of the receiver. Usually, + or 00 is used as an exit code, which notifies the telecom companies that the particular individual requests to make an international call.

How do you find the calling codes of the countries?

The country's calling codes can be found on search engines and telecommunication websites. Type “country code for (specific country),” and you will find the code instantly.

Is it necessary to know the recipient's calling code to make a remittance transfer?

Yes, knowing the recipient's country of calling is necessary for making a remittance transfer. Reputable banks and digital remittance services, such as ACE Money Transfer, require the receiver's calling code to authenticate the recipient's validity and avoid scams and theft.

Why international calling is expensive?

International calling is expensive because of its protocols and distant signal connection. Before reaching the destination, international calls have to pass through various processes. However, making international phone calls through Viber and Skype is highly affordable.


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