How to Call Internationally from 🇨🇳 China
This guide covers everything you need to know about making international calls from China. 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
00
Dialing Format
00 + country code + area or mobile code + local number
Example
00 1 415 555 2671 (to a US mobile in San Francisco)
How to Dial International Numbers from China
To place an international call from China, you need to dial the exit code followed by the destination country code and then the local number. The exit code for China is 00. 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 any foreign trunk prefix such as 0 when dialing abroad; only use the country code and local part
Dialing Examples
- Mobile: 00 1 415 555 2671 (to a US mobile in San Francisco)
- Landline: 00 44 20 7946 0958 (to a UK landline in London)
Toll-free numbers: Foreign toll free numbers (for example, 800, 888) usually are not free and may not connect at all
Before You Call
There are a few things to check before making international calls from China to ensure your call connects successfully and you understand the costs involved.
- •Ensure your SIM is real-name registered; unregistered SIMs may be blocked from IDD and roaming
- •Enable international calling (IDD) with your carrier; many plans have IDD disabled by default
- •Maintain sufficient prepaid balance or an active postpaid plan; IDD calls are usually charged at premium rates
- •Dial 00 or use + before the destination country code, then area or mobile code and number
- •Business or call center users may need additional registration for high-volume international traffic
Carrier International Rates
If you dial internationally using your mobile carrier in China, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | $0.20-1.50 | Typical IDD rates vary by destination; roaming voice often higher than IDD from China |
| China Unicom | $0.20-1.20 | Discount IDD packages may reduce rates to popular destinations |
| China Telecom | $0.20-1.50 | Business plans may offer lower IDD rates with monthly fees |
Rates are approximate and may vary. Check with your carrier for current pricing.
Cost Considerations
Ways to Call Internationally from China
There are several methods available for making international calls from China. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks in terms of cost, convenience, and call quality.
Carrier IDD direct dial
Dial 00 or +, then country code, area or mobile code, and number from your mobile or landline
Drawbacks: High per-minute cost, especially without IDD bundles; charges start immediately when connected
International calling cards
Dial a local or toll access number, enter a PIN, then dial the international destination
Drawbacks: Access numbers may not be toll free; quality and advertised minutes can vary
Roaming with home SIM abroad
Use your Chinese SIM in foreign countries; calls route via your Chinese carrier
Drawbacks: Often the most expensive option; both outgoing and incoming calls abroad are charged
Destination Guides
Select a destination below to see detailed instructions for calling that country from China, including the exact dialing sequence, current rates, and tips specific to that route.
Call Australia
+61
Call Bangladesh
+880
Call Canada
+1
Call India
+91
Call Nepal
+977
Call Pakistan
+92
Call Philippines
+63
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 China?
Dial 00 or use +, then the country code, then the area or mobile code and local number, dropping any foreign trunk 0.
Should I use roaming voice or Wi-Fi or VOIP when abroad with a Chinese SIM?
Roaming voice is convenient but expensive; using Wi-Fi and VOIP or app calls (for example, WeChat) is usually much cheaper.
How expensive are international calls from China?
Typical IDD rates range roughly from 0.20 to over 1 USD per minute depending on destination and plan; check your carrier for exact rates.
Will my caller ID show correctly when I call from China?
In most cases your Chinese number is displayed, but some foreign networks may show it as unknown or blocked, especially for VOIP calls.
Calling from Another Country?
We have similar guides for making international calls from other locations:
Related Resources
Need to call abroad from China?
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.