How to Call Internationally from 🇿🇦 South Africa
This guide covers everything you need to know about making international calls from South Africa. 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 44 20 7123 4567
How to Dial International Numbers from South Africa
To place an international call from South Africa, you need to dial the exit code followed by the destination country code and then the local number. The exit code for South Africa 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 local trunk prefix (such as 0) from the foreign area or mobile code when dialing internationally.
Dialing Examples
- Mobile: 00 44 20 7123 4567
- Landline: 00 1 212 555 0123
Toll-free numbers: Foreign toll free numbers (for example 800, 888) usually are not free and may not be reachable from South Africa.
Before You Call
There are a few things to check before making international calls from South Africa to ensure your call connects successfully and you understand the costs involved.
- •Ensure international calling is enabled on your mobile or fixed line account; some plans block IDD by default.
- •Prepaid SIMs may require a minimum balance or specific international bundle before IDD calls work.
- •Complete RICA registration (SIM KYC) is required for active mobile service and may be needed to lift call restrictions.
- •Dial 00 or use +, then the destination country code, area or mobile code, and subscriber number.
- •Business PBX systems may require an extra access digit (such as 0 or 9) before the international prefix.
Carrier International Rates
If you dial internationally using your mobile carrier in South Africa, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Vodacom | $0.25-1.50 | Typical range for direct international calls depending on destination and whether an IDD add on is active. |
| MTN South Africa | $0.20-1.40 | Lower rates often available to popular destinations when using international calling bundles. |
| Telkom Mobile | $0.15-1.20 | Fixed line and mobile plans may have different IDD pricing and off peak discounts. |
Rates are approximate and may vary. Check with your carrier for current pricing.
Cost Considerations
Ways to Call Internationally from South Africa
There are several methods available for making international calls from South Africa. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks in terms of cost, convenience, and call quality.
Carrier IDD from mobile or landline
Dial 00 or +, then country code, area or mobile code, and number directly from your South African line.
Drawbacks: Often the most expensive option without bundles; per minute billing and connection fees may apply.
International calling bundles
Purchase an add on from your South African carrier that provides discounted minutes to selected countries.
Drawbacks: Limited to specific destinations and validity periods; out of bundle rates can be much higher.
Calling cards or access numbers
Dial a local or toll number, enter a PIN, then dial the international destination for lower rates.
Drawbacks: Call quality can vary; access numbers may not be toll free and can consume local minutes.
Destination Guides
Select a destination below to see detailed instructions for calling that country from South Africa, 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 India
+91
Call Nepal
+977
Call Pakistan
+92
Call Philippines
+63
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 South Africa?
Dial 00 or +, then the country code, area or mobile code without its leading 0, and the local number, for example 00 44 20 7123 4567.
Is it cheaper to roam on my South African SIM or use Wi Fi or VOIP when abroad?
Wi Fi or VOIP apps are usually cheaper, especially without a roaming bundle; roaming voice can be convenient but often costs more per minute.
How expensive are international calls from South Africa?
Rates vary by destination and carrier but are often around USD 0.20 to 1.50 per minute; bundles can significantly reduce the cost.
Will my caller ID show correctly when I call overseas from South Africa?
In most cases your South African number and +27 country code will display, 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 South Africa?
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.