International Dialing Tool – How to Call Abroad Step by Step
Not sure how many zeros, plus signs or country codes you need when calling abroad? Use this tool to generate the correct international dialing format and see clear, human-readable steps before you place the call.
Quick tip
On mobile phones you can usually replace your country’s international access code (like 00 or 011) with the + sign.
Example: +44 20 1234 5678 calls a London number from almost any country.
This determines the international access code (IDD prefix) you dial first, such as 011 or 00.
This determines the country calling code like 1, 44, 49, 86, etc.
Please select where you’re calling from, your destination country and enter a local number.
Result – international dialing format
Full international number
+[country code] [area / local number]
This is the global “+” format that works from most mobile phones.
Step-by-step dialing instructions
- 1. Select your origin and destination, then click “Generate dialing format”.
- 2. We will show your international access code (IDD prefix) plus the correct country code.
- 3. Dial area code and local number – usually without the leading trunk “0”.
This tool shows general dialing rules for common countries. For special services, toll-free numbers or satellite phones, check your carrier’s instructions.
Number copied to clipboard.
How international dialing works
When you place an international call, you normally dial three main parts in order:
- International access code (IDD prefix) from the country you are calling from.
- Country calling code for the country you are calling.
- Area code and local subscriber number, usually without the local trunk prefix “0”.
For example, if you are calling a London landline from the United States, you would dial:
- 011 – the IDD prefix from the USA & Canada.
- 44 – the country calling code for the United Kingdom.
- 20 – the London area code (the local “0” is dropped).
- 1234 5678 – the local subscriber number.
So the full string from a US landline might look like 011 44 20 1234 5678, while on a mobile phone you could often simply dial +44 20 1234 5678.
International access codes (IDD prefixes)
The international access code is controlled by the country you are calling from. Common examples include:
| Country / region | Example country | IDD prefix | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| North America (NANP) | United States, Canada | 011 | Used from most NANP countries when calling abroad. |
| Most of Europe | Germany, France, Spain | 00 | Standard IDD prefix across EU and many other countries. |
| Australia & New Zealand | Australia, New Zealand | 0011 | Some carriers also offer carrier-specific prefixes. |
| China | China | 00 | Dial 00 then the destination country code. |
| Japan | Japan | 010 | Mobile carriers may provide alternative prefixes for cheaper international calls. |
| Middle East (example) | United Arab Emirates | 00 | Dial 00 then the country code for your destination. |
Instead of memorizing these prefixes, many people simply use the + sign on mobile phones, which automatically substitutes the correct international access code for the network you are on.
Dropping the local trunk “0”
In many countries, local landline numbers start with a trunk prefix such as 0. This “0” is dialed only for domestic calls. When calling from abroad, you normally drop this trunk prefix. For example:
- UK local: 020 1234 5678 → international: +44 20 1234 5678
- Germany local: 030 1234567 → international: +49 30 1234567
- Italy local: 06 1234567 → international: +39 06 1234567 (no trunk removal)
Our tool automatically removes the leading trunk “0” for destinations where it is normally dropped, if you keep the checkbox enabled. You can always edit the result manually to match the exact format shown on your customer’s or partner’s website.
Combine international dialing with local time checks
Before calling overseas, it is a good idea to confirm the local time so you do not disturb your contact at night. Use our World Time tool to see the current time in major cities across the globe, then use this international dialing tool to compose the correct number.
FAQ about international dialing
What is the difference between “+” and 00 / 011 when dialing? ▶
The + symbol is a universal shortcut for “international access code”. On mobile phones, when you dial +, the network automatically converts it into the correct IDD prefix (like 00 or 011) based on your current country and operator. On older fixed landlines you usually have to dial the numeric prefix manually.
Do I always remove the leading “0” from the local number? ▶
In many but not all countries the initial “0” is a domestic trunk prefix and should be removed when dialing from abroad. For example, a German number 030 1234567 becomes +49 30 1234567. However, in some countries (like Italy) the leading “0” is part of the full number and must be kept. Our tool follows common patterns, but if you are unsure, check the formatting on the official website or contact.
Why are toll-free or premium numbers sometimes not reachable from abroad? ▶
Toll-free numbers (like 800 numbers in the United States) and premium-rate services are often restricted to domestic callers only. Even if you dial the correct country code and format, your carrier may block the call or charge a different rate. For customer service, look for a regular geographic phone number that explicitly states it can be called from abroad.
How can I find the correct country code and number format for a specific country? ▶
Use our country directory. Each country page (for example Germany or Brazil) includes the country calling code, typical number formats, trunk prefixes and emergency numbers. This international dialing tool then puts everything together into a single step-by-step guide.