To call a UK number from abroad, simply dial your country’s international exit code, followed by +44, and then the local phone number without the leading zero. For example, if the local number in the UK is 020 1234 5678, you would dial it internationally as +44 20 1234 5678.
Topics Covered in This Article:
- What Does the Country Code +44 Mean?
- How to Call the UK Using the +44 Country Code
- Dialing a UK Landline vs. a Mobile Number
- Tips for Making Affordable International Calls
- Best Apps for UK International Calls
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Calling the UK
- Final Summary of Key Points
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What Does the Country Code +44 Mean?
A country code is a numeric prefix used to identify a country during international calls. The UK’s country code is +44, which allows the telecommunications system to route your call correctly. When you see a phone number with +44, you know it is registered in the United Kingdom.
For example:
- A UK phone number may look like this locally: 020 1234 5678.
- Internationally, this becomes +44 20 1234 5678.
Key Points About the UK Country Code:
- The + symbol represents the code to access international dialing (such as 011 in the U.S.).
- Always omit the leading zero from a UK area code when dialing internationally.
How to Call the UK Using the +44 Country Code
Follow these steps to call the UK from another country:
- Dial your country’s exit code.
- Examples:
- From the U.S. or Canada, dial 011.
- From Australia, dial 0011.
- Enter the UK country code, +44.
- Dial the UK phone number.
- If the number starts with a leading zero (e.g., 020 1234 5678), drop the zero.
- Example call sequence from the U.S.: 011-44-20-1234-5678.
Helpful Tip:
If you're using an international calling app like Talk360, the app typically automates the process for you, so there’s no need to manually enter the exit code or country code.
Dialing a UK Landline vs. a Mobile Number
UK landline numbers and mobile numbers differ in format. Knowing these differences ensures you’re dialing correctly:
UK Landline Numbers
- Format: Area Code + Local Number
- Example (London): 020 1234 5678
- Dial internationally as +44 20 1234 5678 (drop the zero in the area code).
UK Mobile Numbers
- Format: 07 + Local Number
- Example (Mobile): 07123 456789
- Dial internationally as +44 7123 456789 (drop the initial 0 in 07).
Tips for Making Affordable International Calls
Calling the UK doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some tips to save money on international calls:
- Use an International Calling App
Apps like Talk360 allow you to call UK numbers (landline or mobile) over the internet at highly competitive rates. Popular alternatives include Skype and WhatsApp, though many require both users to have the app.
- Check Your Mobile Plan
Some mobile providers offer international calling plans or add-ons that reduce the cost of calling abroad.
- Choose Off-Peak Times
International call rates are often lower during off-peak hours or weekends.
- Wi-Fi Calling
Many apps and smartphones support Wi-Fi calling, enabling free or low-cost calls when connected to a Wi-Fi network.
- Prepaid Calling Cards
Purchase a prepaid calling card dedicated to UK calls if you don’t want to rely on an app or phone plan.
Best Apps for UK International Calls
Whether making frequent calls or just a few, using an app can simplify the process.
- Talk360 – The recommended choice for international calls to UK landlines and mobiles, offering greater reliability and ease of use compared to alternatives for Skype. With Talk360, you don’t need both parties to have the app, making it more versatile for connecting with anyone in the UK.
- WhatsApp – Free calls to other users of the app, but both parties must be online.
Why Choose Talk360?
- No subscription required.
- Works without needing the person you're calling to have an internet connection or the app.
- Reliable call quality for both landlines and mobile numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Calling the UK
Q1. What does +44 replace in a UK phone number?
The +44 replaces the initial 0 in the UK number. For example, 020 1234 5678 becomes +44 20 1234 5678.
Q2. Can I call a UK number without the +44?
No, when dialing internationally, you must always include the UK country code, +44.
Q3. Do I need an internet connection for apps like Talk360?
Yes, Talk360 requires an internet connection to connect your call but doesn’t require the recipient to have internet.
Q4. Are international calls to UK landlines cheaper than calls to mobiles?
Yes, calling landlines is generally more cost-effective than calling mobile numbers due to rate differences.
Final Summary of Key Points
- The UK’s country code is +44, essential for dialing internationally.
- Drop the leading zero from UK numbers when using +44.
- Landline and mobile numbers differ slightly in format—ensure you dial correctly.
- Affordable options for calling the UK include apps like Talk360, checking mobile plan add-ons, and using Wi-Fi calling.
- Talk360 is a highly recommended app for international calling, offering simplicity, reliability, and great rates.
By following these tips and choosing the right app, you can make your international calls to the UK hassle-free and budget-friendly!
Ready to make easy, affordable calls to the UK?
Download Talk360 today and experience crystal-clear, reliable international calling!
