How to Call Internationally from 🇨🇦 Canada
This guide covers everything you need to know about making international calls from Canada. You will find the correct dialing format, exit codes, information about carrier rates, and links to detailed guides for specific destinations.
Quick Reference
Exit Code
011
Dialing Format
011 + country code + area or mobile code + local number (or +country code from mobiles)
Example
To call a UK mobile: +44 7XXX XXX XXX
How to Dial International Numbers from Canada
To place an international call from Canada, you need to dial the exit code followed by the destination country code and then the local number. The exit code for Canada is 011. If you are using a mobile phone, you can also use the plus symbol (+) instead of the exit code, and your phone will automatically convert it.
Drop the foreign trunk prefix (often 0) when dialing internationally; do not drop the Canadian 1 when calling other NANP countries.
Dialing Examples
- Mobile: To call a UK mobile: +44 7XXX XXX XXX
- Landline: To call a French landline: 011 33 1 XX XX XX XX
Toll-free numbers: Foreign toll free numbers (800, 888, etc.) usually do not work from Canada unless specifically enabled.
Before You Call
There are a few things to check before making international calls from Canada to ensure your call connects successfully and you understand the costs involved.
- •Ensure your mobile or landline plan includes international long distance; many basic plans are Canada/US only.
- •If international calls fail, contact your carrier to remove IDD blocks or enable pay per use long distance.
- •From mobiles, dial + then country code; from landlines, dial 011 before the country code.
- •Prepaid SIMs may require a top up or an international add on before IDD is allowed.
- •Business PBX systems may require a prefix (such as 9) before 011 for outside lines.
Carrier International Rates
If you dial internationally using your mobile carrier in Canada, you will typically pay per-minute rates that vary by destination. These rates can be significantly higher than internet-based calling options. The table below shows approximate rate ranges for major carriers.
| Carrier | Rate Range (USD/min) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rogers | $0.10-2.00 | Lower rates with international add ons; higher for distant regions and satellite destinations. |
| Bell | $0.10-1.80 | Discounted bundles for frequent calling to specific countries; standard pay per use otherwise. |
| Telus | $0.08-1.70 | Offers country specific and zone based long distance packages to reduce per minute costs. |
Rates are approximate and may vary. Check with your carrier for current pricing.
Cost Considerations
Ways to Call Internationally from Canada
There are several methods available for making international calls from Canada. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks in terms of cost, convenience, and call quality.
Carrier IDD from mobile or landline
Dial 011 or +, then country code, area code and number; charges appear on your regular bill.
Drawbacks: Often the most expensive option without an international add on; easy to incur high charges.
Calling cards or access numbers
Dial a local or toll free access number, enter a PIN, then dial the international number.
Drawbacks: Setup is slower; advertised minutes may exclude connection fees or maintenance charges.
Hotel or office PBX calling
Use the building phone system with a prefix to reach an outside international line.
Drawbacks: Per minute and service fees can be high; billing may be delayed or opaque.
Destination Guides
Select a destination below to see detailed instructions for calling that country from Canada, including the exact dialing sequence, current rates, and tips specific to that route.
Call Australia
+61
Call Bangladesh
+880
Call China
+86
Call France
+33
Call Germany
+49
Call India
+91
Call Japan
+81
Call Nepal
+977
Call Pakistan
+92
Call Philippines
+63
Call Saudi Arabia
+966
Call South Africa
+27
Call Spain
+34
Call United Arab Emirates
+971
Call United Kingdom
+44
Call United States
+1
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I dial an international number from Canada?
From landlines dial 011 + country code + area or mobile code + number; from mobiles you can dial +country code + number.
Is it cheaper to roam or to use Wi Fi or VOIP when abroad?
Wi Fi and VOIP apps are usually cheaper, while roaming passes offer convenience but can cost more for long calls.
How much do international calls from Canada cost?
Rates vary by carrier and destination, roughly from USD 0.05 to over 2.00 per minute without discounts or bundles.
Will my caller ID show correctly when I call from Canada?
Most carriers send your Canadian number as caller ID, but some foreign networks or VOIP routes may show Unknown or a gateway number.
Calling from Another Country?
We have similar guides for making international calls from other locations:
Related Resources
Need to call abroad from Canada?
HelloAirDial lets you make international calls directly from your web browser. Check the rates for your destination or try a call to see how it works.