✅ France Phone Code and International Dialing Format
Introduction
Understanding the French calling code is essential for anyone wishing to connect with individuals or businesses in France. This professional guide provides a clear overview of dialing procedures, international prefixes, and regional considerations to ensure seamless communication. Whether you are making calls for personal or professional purposes, mastering the France Calling Code will enhance your ability to connect effectively across borders.
What Is France’s International Calling Code
France’s international calling code is +33.
When calling France from another country, you dial your international exit code first (such as 00 or +), then 33, followed by the French phone number without the leading zero. That zero is used only for domestic calls within France and must be dropped for international dialing.
General Dialling Format to Call France
Calling France from abroad follows a standard international dialing format that works the same way across most countries.
You begin with your country’s international exit code, which is usually 00, or you can use the + symbol on a mobile phone. Next, dial 33, which is France’s international calling code. After that, enter the French phone number without the leading zero.
French phone numbers always start with a zero when dialed domestically. That zero is only used inside France and must be removed for international calls. So a French number written locally as 06 12 34 56 78 becomes +33 6 12 34 56 78 when called from abroad.
This same format applies whether you’re calling a landline or a mobile. If you save French numbers in your contacts using the +33 format, they will work correctly no matter where you’re calling from or whether you’re using a phone network or internet-based calling.
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How to Call a French Landline
1. Start With the International Exit Code
From outside France, you first need your country’s international exit code. This is usually 00; you can also use the + symbol when calling from a mobile phone.
2. Dial France’s Country Code
Next, enter 33 to route the call to the French telephone network.
3. Drop the Leading Zero
French landline numbers always begin with a zero when dialed within France. This zero must be removed for international calls; the call will not connect.
4. Use the Correct Landline Prefix
French landlines start with specific digits that indicate the region. Numbers beginning with 01 cover Paris and the surrounding area; 02 covers the northwest; 03, the northeast; 04, the southeast; and 05, the southwest. When calling internationally, you use these digits without the zero.
5. Dial the Remaining Local Number
After the area prefix, dial the rest of the landline number exactly as provided. These digits stay the same for both local and international calls.
6. Example for Reference
A Paris landline written locally as 01 44 55 66 77 should be dialed as +33 1 44 55 66 77 from abroad.
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How to Call a French Mobile Number
1. Begin With the International Exit Code
When calling from outside France, start with your country’s international exit code. This is usually 00; you can also use the + symbol on a mobile phone.
2. Dial France’s Country Code
Next, enter 33 to connect the call to the French mobile network.
3. Remove the Leading Zero
French mobile numbers always start with a zero when used domestically, most commonly 06 or 07. For international calls, that zero must be dropped.
4. Dial the Remaining Mobile Number
After removing the zero, dial the remaining number exactly as given. The remaining digits do not change.
5. Example for Clarity
A French mobile number written locally as 06 12 34 56 78 should be dialed internationally as +33 6 12 34 56 78.
6. Save Numbers in International Format
Saving French mobile numbers in the +33 format ensures they work worldwide and across standard and internet-based calling apps.
What are the area codes for France?
| Prefix (Domestic) | International Format | Region/Type | Examples of Areas Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
33 1 |
Paris & Île-de-France |
Paris, Versailles, Boulogne-Billancourt |
|
2 |
33 2 |
Northwest France |
Nantes, Rennes, Le Mans |
|
3 |
33 3 |
Northeast France |
Strasbourg, Reims, Metz |
|
4 |
33 4 |
Southeast France |
Lyon, Marseille, Nice |
Time Zone Considerations
When calling France, it’s essential to factor in the time zone to avoid calling at an inconvenient hour. France operates on Central European Time (CET) and switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST) during daylight saving. This places France one hour ahead of Western Europe for most of the year. Business hours are usually 9:00 am to 5:00 pm local time, with lunch breaks taken seriously. Early mornings, late evenings, and Sundays are generally not ideal for calls unless agreed in advance.
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Conclusion
Calling France is straightforward once you understand the dialing structure. Using the correct country code (+33), removing the leading zero from French numbers, and knowing whether you’re calling a landline or a mobile makes all the difference. When you combine the correct dialing format with basic time zone awareness, calling France from abroad becomes reliable, transparent, and hassle-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the international calling code for France?
The international calling code for France is +33. This code is required when calling any French number from outside France. It connects the call to the French telephone network.
2. How do I call France from another country?
First dial your country’s international exit code. Then dial 33, followed by the French phone number without the leading zero. This format works for both landline and mobile numbers.
3. What is the exit code used before dialing France?
The exit code depends on where you are calling from. Many countries use 00, while the United States and Canada use 011. The exit code allows the call to leave your local network.
4. Do I need to remove the zero when dialing France?
Yes, the leading zero in French numbers is only used for domestic calls. When calling internationally, the zero must be removed. Keeping the zero may cause the call to fail.
5. How do I call a French mobile number from abroad?
Dial your exit code, then 33, followed by the mobile number without the first zero. French mobile numbers usually start with 6 or 7. The dialing steps are the same worldwide.
6. Are French landline numbers different from mobile numbers?
Yes, landline numbers use regional prefixes based on location. Mobile numbers are not location-based and follow different prefixes. Both types require the +33 code for international calls.
7. What is France’s exit code for calling other countries?
France uses 00 as its international exit code. People calling abroad from France dial 00 before the destination country code. This applies to both landline and mobile calls.
8. How much does it cost to call France internationally?
Costs vary depending on your service provider and calling plan. Standard international rates can be high without a special package. Using international plans or internet-based calling services can reduce expenses.
9. Can I call France using internet calling services?
Yes, many people use internet calling apps to contact numbers in France. These services usually only require a stable internet connection. They are often cheaper or free compared to traditional calls.
10. What should I check before dialing a number in France?
Confirm the full number format and remove the leading zero. Check your international calling rates to avoid unexpected charges. Correct dialing ensures the call connects smoothly.