UK Dialing Codes Explained
Understanding UK dialing codes is essential whether you’re making a call within the UK or dialing internationally. With different prefixes for local, national, and international calls, knowing the correct format ensures your call reaches the right destination without unnecessary delays or extra charges.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about UK dialing codes, including how to make calls to various international destinations such as India, Turkey, Greece, Germany, and more.
What Are UK Dialing Codes?
UK dialing codes are prefixes used to direct calls to specific regions, cities, or mobile networks. The UK’s country code is +44, which must be used when calling from abroad. Local landlines within the UK require area codes, while mobile numbers have unique prefixes assigned to different providers.
UK Dialing Codes by the numbers
- UK Country Code: The UK’s country code is +44, which must be used when calling from abroad. Learn more in our guide on UK Dialing Code: How to Make International Calls.
- Local Calls in the UK: Dial the area code followed by the local number. Mobile numbers typically begin with 07.
- Calling the UK from Abroad:
- Dial your country’s international access code (e.g., 011 from the US, 00 from Europe).
- Enter +44.
- Omit the leading zero of the UK area code or mobile number.
- Calling Turkey from the UK:
- Dial 00 (UK’s international exit code) + 90 (Turkey’s country code) + area code + local number.
- Read more in our Turkey Dialing Code: How to Make Calls.
- Calling Greece from the UK:
- Dial 00 + 30 (Greece’s country code) + area code + number.
- See full details in our Dialing Code to Greece: A Complete Guide.
- Calling India from the UK:
- Dial 00 + 91 (India’s country code) + area code or mobile number.
- Check our guides on India Dialing Code: International Calling Guide and India Country Dialing Code: Making International Calls.
- Calling Germany from the UK:
- Dial 00 + 49 (Germany’s country code) + area code + number.
- Learn more in our Germany Dialing Code: How to Call from the UK.
- Calling France from the UK:
- Dial 00 + 33 (France’s country code) + area code + number.
- See full instructions in our France Dialing Code: How to Call from the UK.
- Calling Australia from the UK:
- Dial 00 + 61 (Australia’s country code) + area code + number.
- Get more information in our Australia Dialing Code: Calling from the UK.
- Calling Canada from the UK:
- Dial 00 + 1 (Canada’s country code) + area code + number.
- Learn more in our Dialing Code of Canada: Calling from the UK.
- Calling the US from the UK:
- Dial 00 + 1 (US country code) + area code + number.
- For details, see our US Dialing Code: How to Call from the UK.
Common Issues with International Dialing
- Incorrect Exit Code: Double-check that you’re using 00 when dialing internationally from the UK.
- Missing Country Code: Each country has a unique code that must be dialed after the UK’s exit code.
- Leading Zero Errors: Remember to omit the initial zero when dialing a UK number from abroad.
- Blocked International Calls: Some providers require international calling activation, so check with your carrier.
- High Call Charges: Use VoIP services or international calling plans to avoid expensive rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the UK’s dialing code?
The UK’s country code is +44, used when calling from abroad.
2. How do I call a UK landline from another country?
Dial your country’s international access code, then +44, followed by the UK area code without the leading zero, and then the local number.
3. How can I save money on international calls from the UK?
Consider using VoIP services such as Skype, WhatsApp, or Google Voice, or purchase an international calling plan from your mobile provider.
4. Why isn’t my international call going through?
Check that your phone plan allows international calls, ensure you have the correct dialing format, and confirm that the recipient’s number is active.
5. Can I use a UK mobile number to call internationally?
Yes, but be aware of roaming charges. Use Wi-Fi-based calling apps when possible to reduce costs.
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