How to Call Internationally from 🇫🇷 France
This guide covers everything you need to know about making international calls from France. 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 (no leading 0) + local number
Example
00 1 212 555 0123 (France to US mobile or landline in New York)
How to Dial International Numbers from France
To place an international call from France, you need to dial the exit code followed by the destination country code and then the local number. The exit code for France 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 the leading 0 from foreign area or mobile codes when dialing internationally from France
Dialing Examples
- Mobile: 00 1 212 555 0123 (France to US mobile or landline in New York)
- Landline: 00 44 20 7946 0123 (France to UK landline in London)
Toll-free numbers: Foreign toll free numbers (e.g. 800, 888) are often not free or not reachable from France; check local access numbers
Before You Call
There are a few things to check before making international calls from France to ensure your call connects successfully and you understand the costs involved.
- •Ensure your mobile plan includes international calling; many French bundles exclude non-EU destinations by default
- •For prepaid SIMs, verify sufficient credit and that international calls (appel international) are enabled in your account
- •Some operators block high cost destinations by default; enable specific zones via customer service or online account
- •When dialing abroad, use 00 or +, then country code, then number without the local trunk 0
- •Business lines may have international barring; request admin or PBX manager to lift IDD restrictions if needed
Carrier International Rates
If you dial internationally using your mobile carrier in France, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Orange France | $0.10-1.50 | Lower rates or bundles for EU and select destinations; higher for mobiles and premium zones |
| SFR | $0.15-1.80 | International options and passes reduce standard IDD and roaming tariffs |
| Bouygues Telecom | $0.10-1.60 | Some plans include unlimited calls to fixed lines in popular countries; mobiles usually extra |
Rates are approximate and may vary. Check with your carrier for current pricing.
Cost Considerations
Ways to Call Internationally from France
There are several methods available for making international calls from France. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks in terms of cost, convenience, and call quality.
Standard carrier IDD from mobile or landline
Dial 00 or +, then country code and number; charges appear on your regular bill or are deducted from prepaid credit
Drawbacks: Can be expensive for non EU destinations and long calls; limited cost control without add ons
International calling add on or bundle
Add a monthly or one off option that includes minutes to specific countries or zones
Drawbacks: Covers only listed destinations; overage minutes revert to high standard rates
Physical or virtual calling cards
Buy a card or online PIN, dial an access number in France, then the international destination number
Drawbacks: Access numbers may not be free from mobiles; connection fees and rounding can increase effective cost
Destination Guides
Select a destination below to see detailed instructions for calling that country from France, including the exact dialing sequence, current rates, and tips specific to that route.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I dial an international number from France?
Dial 00 or +, then the country code, then the area or mobile code without its leading 0, then the local number.
Should I use roaming voice or Wi Fi and VOIP when I travel from France?
Within the EU, roaming voice is usually affordable; outside the EU, Wi Fi and VOIP apps are often cheaper than standard roaming minutes.
How expensive are international calls from France?
EU calls are often included or capped, but calls to non EU countries can range from about 0.10 to over 1.50 USD per minute depending on destination and plan.
Will my caller ID show correctly when I call France from abroad or via apps?
Standard international calls usually display your number if supported; VOIP apps may show an app ID or alternate number, so inform contacts in advance if needed.
Calling from Another Country?
We have similar guides for making international calls from other locations:
Related Resources
Need to call abroad from France?
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.