How to Call Internationally from 🇮🇳 India
This guide covers everything you need to know about making international calls from India. 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 0123 (India to US mobile)
How to Dial International Numbers from India
To place an international call from India, you need to dial the exit code followed by the destination country code and then the local number. The exit code for India 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 international; only use the country code and subscriber number
Dialing Examples
- Mobile: 00 1 415 555 0123 (India to US mobile)
- Landline: 00 44 20 7946 0018 (India to UK landline)
Toll-free numbers: Many foreign toll free numbers do not work from India or are charged as normal ISD
Before You Call
There are a few things to check before making international calls from India to ensure your call connects successfully and you understand the costs involved.
- •Ensure your SIM is KYC verified; unverified or inactive SIMs may block international calls
- •Contact your operator to enable ISD (international calling) if not active by default
- •Use 00 or + before the destination country code when dialing abroad
- •Corporate or prepaid connections may have ISD barred by default; request unbar via customer care or app
- •Check that sufficient main balance or an ISD pack is available before placing international calls
Carrier International Rates
If you dial internationally using your mobile carrier in India, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Jio | $0.20-1.50 | Typical ISD rates vary by destination; cheaper to popular countries like USA, UK, UAE |
| Airtel | $0.25-1.80 | Offers discounted ISD packs and roaming bundles for frequent travelers |
| Vi (Vodafone Idea) | $0.25-1.70 | Per minute ISD with optional add on packs for specific country groups |
Rates are approximate and may vary. Check with your carrier for current pricing.
Cost Considerations
Ways to Call Internationally from India
There are several methods available for making international calls from India. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks in terms of cost, convenience, and call quality.
Carrier ISD direct dial
Dial 00 or +, then country code, area or mobile code, and number from your Indian SIM
Drawbacks: Higher per minute cost than data based calls; requires ISD enabled and sufficient balance
International calling cards or access numbers
Call a local or toll access number, enter a PIN, then dial the international destination
Drawbacks: Extra dialing steps, variable quality, possible hidden fees or expiry of unused credit
International roaming on foreign SIM
Use your home country SIM while visiting India; calls route via your foreign operator
Drawbacks: Often very expensive without roaming packs; local Indian numbers may be cheaper using an Indian SIM
Destination Guides
Select a destination below to see detailed instructions for calling that country from India, including the exact dialing sequence, current rates, and tips specific to that route.
Call Australia
+61
Call Bangladesh
+880
Call Canada
+1
Call China
+86
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 India?
Dial 00 or +, then the country code, then the area or mobile code without leading 0, followed by the local number.
Should I use roaming or Wi Fi or VOIP when calling abroad from India?
Using local data with apps like WhatsApp or Wi Fi calling is usually cheaper than standard ISD or roaming, especially for long calls.
How expensive are international calls from India?
Rates vary by destination and operator but often range from about USD 0.20 to over 1.50 per minute; check your plan or ISD pack for exact tariffs.
Will my caller ID show correctly when I call India or abroad?
Most operators send your Indian mobile number as caller ID, but some international routes or VOIP services may show unknown or different numbers.
Calling from Another Country?
We have similar guides for making international calls from other locations:
Related Resources
Need to call abroad from India?
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.