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Introduction

A country code is a unique numerical prefix that is used for international phone calls. Without a country code, your phone call will not connect to another country. Every country has a specific code for phone calls. The United States has one of the most recognized country codes, +1. Each call code is essential for facilitating international calling.

The Official U.S. Calling Code

If you plan to migrate to USA, it's useful to know that the official calling country code is +1, which is required for all international calls to the U.S. This is the international dialling prefix which is used for any phone call to any number throughout the United States, which includes all 50 states, U.S. territories (such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands), and parts of Canada and several Caribbean countries that are part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP).  

When calling from another country, you will usually start with your country's international access code (for instance, 00 or +) and then type 1, followed by the phone number (the area code + the local telephone number).

How to Dial the U.S. from Abroad

Calling someone in the United States from another country is easy when you follow the correct format. Every international call to the U.S. must include the exit code, the U.S. country code, and the area code of the person you are calling.

Here's how to call someone in the United States from another country, step by step — with clear examples so you know exactly what to do.

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Step 1: Dial your country's exit code

Every country has an exit code (also called an international access code).

It's the number you dial first to "get out" of your country's phone network and make an international call.

Here are a few examples:

• From the UK or most of Europe, it's 00
• From Australia, it's 0011
• From Japan, it's 010
• From India, it's 00
• From a mobile phone, you can use the "+" symbol instead of the exit code — super handy when travelling!

🗣 Example:

If you're calling from the UK, start with 00.

If you're on your mobile, just type +.

Step 2: Dial the U.S. country code

The country code for the United States is 1.

So right after your exit code (or the "+"), you'll dial 1.

🗣 Example:

If you're calling from the UK → 00 1

If you're on mobile → +1

Step 3: Dial the area code

The area code tells the phone system which region or city in the U.S. you're calling.

It's always three digits.

A few examples:

• New York City → 212
• Los Angeles → 310
• Chicago → 312
• Miami → 305

Step 4: Dial the local phone number

This is the actual 7-digit number of the person or business you're calling.

Step 5: Put it all together!

Let's say you want to call (212) 555-7890 in New York City.

Depending on where you're calling from, it looks like this:

• From the UK: 00 1 212 555 7890
• From Australia: 0011 1 212 555 7890
• From Japan: 010 1 212 555 7890
• From a mobile phone anywhere: +1 212 555 7890

Calling the U.S. from Different Regions

Every country has its own way of starting an international call, and once you know that first step, the rest is straightforward. After dialing your country's international access code, add 1 for the U.S., then the area code and local number. Here's how it works from different corners of the world.

Example calls from different countries

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Tips on International Calling

Calling internationally doesn't have to be complicated or expensive — just a few smart habits will make the process easier. Whether you are calling the United States or elsewhere, the tips listed here can help ensure you are connected efficiently and inexpensively. 

1. Double-check the time zone 

The United States, in particular, spans multiple time zones, from New York to California. Before the call, quickly check the local time of the person you are calling so you do not call in the middle of someone'stheir night or early morning.

2. Use “+” instead of an country exit code 

If you are calling from a mobile phone, you do not need to memorise the exit codes that vary by country. You can use just +(1) for the United States, and it will go through, or your mobile will calculate the correct international prefix code. 

3. Use internet-based apps to call.

Calling apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, or Google Voice let you call and video chat over WiFi instead of international phone rates. Just make sure both sides have stable WiFi connections. 

4. Check on your phone's international plan. 

Before calling internationally, check with your carrier about the cost to call the country you want to call. Some airlines offer more affordable international calling packages and add-ons. This is especially helpful if you plan to make international calls frequently, as it lets you budget your calls. 

5. Be cautious of toll-free numbers.

In the United States, toll-free numbers (like 1-800, 1-888, or 1-877) often do not function outside of the U.S. Be sure to check the company's website for international numbers or an alternative way to reach them.

6. Save contact numbers in international format.

Whenever you add a number to your phone, be sure to add the + sign, then the country code. That way, calls or texts will work wherever you are.

7. Prepare for long calls.

When calling from continent to continent, make sure your phone is charged, you have a stable WiFi connection, and you're in a quiet place. It will not only improve signal quality but also comfort.

Conclusion

When you are calling the United States, your primary focus is the country code +1. You must never forget to dial the country code when calling the United States; no matter where you are dialing from, you will always have to dial your home country's international access code (conveniently, it is common to use the "+" symbol on your mobile phone), and subsequently dial 1, the country code for the United States, and then the area code and local number.

Keep in mind that using the correct order and format will help your call connect as quickly as possible, without delays or confusion, whether it's for a business, family, or just an international customer service number. Using +1 gives you access to anyone reachable in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the international calling code for the United States?

The international calling code for the United States is +1. It's used before the area code and phone number when dialling from outside the country. This same code also applies to U.S. territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

2. How do I call a U.S. number from another country?

To call the U.S. from abroad, first dial your country's international access code (e.g., 00 or 011), then 1, then the area code and local number. For example, if you're calling from the UK, you'd dial 00-1-[area code]-[number]. Always check the time zone difference before calling.

3. Do all U.S. states share the same country code?

Yes, all 50 states use the same +1 country code, but each state or city has its own unique area code. For example, New York uses 212 or 646, while California includes 310, 415, and others. The area code identifies specific regions within the U.S. telephone system.

4. Is there a difference between +1 and 001 when dialling the U.S.?

No, +1 and 001 both represent the same country code for the United States. The "+" sign replaces the international access code used in your country. Mobile phones automatically use "+" as the correct international dialling prefix.

5. Can I call U.S. toll-free numbers from outside the country?

Most U.S. toll-free numbers (beginning with 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, or 833) cannot be reached internationally. You'll often need the company's regular international number instead. Some businesses provide an alternate contact number for callers outside the U.S.

6. Are Canada and the U.S. under the same calling code?

Yes, both the United States and Canada share the +1 country code, along with several other countries in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). This makes cross-border calling between the two nations simpler and often cheaper. However, local rates may still apply depending on your carrier.

7. What should I do if my call to the U.S. doesn't go through?

Double-check the number format — ensure you include the correct international prefix (+1) and area code. Also, verify that your carrier allows international calls and that the recipient's line is active. If problems persist, try using an international calling app or VoIP service.

8. How can I save money on calls to the U.S. from abroad?

Consider using VoIP or mobile apps such as Skype, WhatsApp, or Google Voice for cheaper international calls. Many of these services use Wi-Fi or data instead of traditional calling rates. Prepaid international call plans are another good option for frequent callers.

9. Can I send texts or WhatsApp messages using the same code?

Yes, the +1 country code also applies to text messages and online messaging apps. When saving a U.S. contact, always include +1 before the number. This ensures proper delivery of messages across different countries and networks.

10. What's the best way to remember the U.S. calling code?

Just think of the United States as "1" — it was the first country assigned a code under the international numbering system. Anytime you see a U.S. number starting with +1, it's valid nationwide. Keeping contacts stored in the full international format avoids confusion when travelling.