How to Call Internationally from 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
This guide covers everything you need to know about making international calls from United Kingdom. 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 (UK to US mobile or landline in New York)
How to Dial International Numbers from United Kingdom
To place an international call from United Kingdom, you need to dial the exit code followed by the destination country code and then the local number. The exit code for United Kingdom 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 UK leading 0 only when dialing UK numbers from abroad; when calling other countries from the UK, drop their local trunk 0 after the country code
Dialing Examples
- Mobile: 00 1 212 555 0123 (UK to US mobile or landline in New York)
- Landline: 00 33 1 44 55 66 77 (UK to French landline in Paris)
Toll-free numbers: International toll free numbers (e.g. 00800, foreign 800) are not always reachable or may be charged
Before You Call
There are a few things to check before making international calls from United Kingdom to ensure your call connects successfully and you understand the costs involved.
- •Enable international calling with your mobile or landline provider; some plans block IDD by default
- •Use 00 or + before the destination country code when dialing abroad
- •Prepaid SIMs may require sufficient balance or an international add on before IDD works
- •Roaming must be activated to call from the UK while abroad; check EU and non EU rules
- •Business lines may have international prefixes or specific destinations restricted by the administrator
Carrier International Rates
If you dial internationally using your mobile carrier in United Kingdom, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| EE | $0.20-2.00 | Lower rates with international add ons; higher when roaming outside Europe or without bundles |
| Vodafone UK | $0.15-2.50 | Offers international extras and roaming passes; standard IDD and roaming can be costly without them |
| O2 UK | $0.15-2.00 | Some plans include discounted international rates; premium and satellite destinations cost more |
Rates are approximate and may vary. Check with your carrier for current pricing.
Cost Considerations
Ways to Call Internationally from United Kingdom
There are several methods available for making international calls from United Kingdom. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks in terms of cost, convenience, and call quality.
Direct carrier international dialing (IDD)
Dial 00 or +, then country code, area or mobile code, then local number from your UK line
Drawbacks: Often the most expensive option, especially without international add ons or bundles
International calling cards or access numbers
Call a UK access number, enter a PIN, then dial the overseas number to use discounted rates
Drawbacks: Access numbers may not be included in bundled minutes and can incur local call charges
Roaming with UK SIM abroad
Use your UK number overseas; calls route via your UK carrier with roaming tariffs or passes
Drawbacks: Can be very expensive in non inclusive countries; incoming calls may also be charged
Destination Guides
Select a destination below to see detailed instructions for calling that country from United Kingdom, 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 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 States
+1
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I dial an international number from the UK?
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 or Wi Fi or VOIP when abroad as a UK user?
Roaming is convenient but can be costly; using Wi Fi calling or VOIP apps usually reduces costs, especially outside Europe.
How expensive are international calls from the UK?
Rates vary by carrier and destination, from a few US cents to several dollars per minute; check your plan or buy an international add on.
Will my caller ID show correctly when I call UK numbers from abroad or via apps?
Direct calls usually show your number in international format; some VOIP apps may show a generic or local access number instead.
Calling from Another Country?
We have similar guides for making international calls from other locations:
Related Resources
Need to call abroad from United Kingdom?
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.