Ever tried dialing a number abroad and ended up more confused than connected? Calling internationally, especially from a country like Ireland with its unique telecommunications landscape, can seem like navigating a maze. Whether you’re trying to reach family, conduct business, or simply check in with friends across the globe, getting the dialing code and format right is crucial. A simple misstep can lead to frustration, wasted time, and unnecessary charges.
Understanding the correct procedures for making international calls from Ireland is therefore essential for anyone living in or visiting the country. Knowing the right exit codes, country codes, and area codes ensures your call goes through smoothly and cost-effectively. It removes the guesswork and allows you to focus on what truly matters – connecting with the people or organizations you need to reach, wherever they may be.
What are the most common questions about calling internationally from Ireland?
What's the international exit code from Ireland?
The international exit code from Ireland is 00. This code must be dialed before any country code when you are calling a number outside of Ireland.
When making an international call from Ireland, you first dial 00, which signals to the Irish phone network that you are about to make a call to a different country. Following the 00, you then dial the specific country code of the country you wish to reach. For example, to call a US number, you would dial 00 followed by the US country code (1), and then the area code and the local number. Therefore, the general format for making an international call from Ireland is: 00 + Country Code + Area Code (if applicable) + Local Number. It's crucial to ensure you have the correct country code before dialing to successfully connect your call. Some online resources and apps can help you quickly look up country codes if you are unsure.Do I need a different code if calling a mobile vs. landline?
Yes, when calling from Ireland, you will need to use a different area code depending on whether you are calling a mobile phone or a landline in the destination country. Mobile phone numbers typically have a different prefix than geographic landline numbers.
When calling internationally, and specifically from Ireland, it's crucial to use the correct dialing format. This includes the exit code for Ireland (00), the country code for the country you are calling, and then the relevant area code (if calling a landline) or mobile network code followed by the subscriber number. The most common mistake is to forget to remove the leading '0' from the area code or mobile network code when calling internationally. For example, if a landline number in the target country is (01) xxx-xxxx, you would dial it as 00 + country code + 1 + xxx-xxxx (assuming '1' is the area code for that specific city). For mobile numbers, the same principle applies - remove the leading '0' from the mobile network code. To illustrate further, suppose you are calling a United States mobile phone with the number 087-xxx-xxxx (an Irish mobile number starting with '087' is used as an example of phone number with a leading '0'). You would dial: 00 + 1 (US country code) + 87xxx-xxxx. Always double-check the specific dialing instructions for the country you are calling to ensure you have the correct format, as incorrect dialing can result in a failed call or a connection to the wrong number.What is the country code to call your specific location from Ireland?
To determine the country code needed to call a specific location from Ireland, you must know which country you are trying to reach. The country code is a one, two, or three-digit number that prefixes the phone number when dialing internationally. For example, if you are trying to call the United States, the country code is +1.
Once you know the country you want to call, you can easily find its corresponding country code. Many online resources provide lists of country codes. Simply search "country codes" on any search engine, and you will find numerous websites that allow you to look up the code for your destination. Common examples include the United Kingdom (+44), France (+33), Germany (+49), and Australia (+61). Always use the "+" symbol before the country code when dialing from a mobile phone, as it represents the international access code that automatically adjusts based on your location.
Beyond the country code, you will also need the area code (or city code) and the recipient's local phone number. The area code directs the call to a specific region within the country. When calling from Ireland, dial the international access code (00), followed by the country code, then the area code (if applicable), and finally the local phone number. So, the dialing sequence would be: 00 + Country Code + Area Code + Local Phone Number. Remember to drop any leading zeros from the area code or phone number that might be used within the destination country itself.
How do I avoid international calling charges from my Irish provider?
The easiest way to avoid international calling charges from your Irish provider is to use a Wi-Fi-based calling app or service, such as WhatsApp, Skype, FaceTime, or Viber, when calling a number outside of Ireland. These apps use your internet connection to make calls, bypassing your mobile network's international calling rates.
Several strategies can further reduce or eliminate these charges. Firstly, ensure you are connected to a stable Wi-Fi network before making any calls. This prevents your phone from switching to mobile data and incurring charges. Secondly, research if your Irish mobile provider offers international calling add-ons or bundles. These can significantly reduce the cost of international calls if you frequently call numbers outside Ireland. Compare these options carefully, considering the cost per minute and any included call allowances.
Finally, consider the person you are calling. If they also have access to a Wi-Fi-based calling app, using the same app will allow both of you to call each other without incurring any international or long-distance charges. Ensure both parties understand how to use the chosen app correctly to avoid accidentally using mobile data and incurring unwanted charges.
Should I use a calling app to call from Ireland instead?
Yes, using a calling app is generally a cheaper and more convenient way to call internationally from Ireland, particularly if you're calling a mobile phone or a landline outside of Ireland. Calling apps leverage Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, routing your calls over the internet instead of traditional phone lines, which drastically reduces costs.
Calling apps like WhatsApp, Skype, Viber, and others offer free calls to other users of the same app, requiring only an internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data). Even when calling regular phone numbers, these apps often have significantly lower per-minute rates compared to traditional phone companies. This is because they avoid the high international call tariffs imposed by telecom providers. To maximize savings, ensure you're connected to a stable Wi-Fi network to avoid excessive mobile data charges. Before committing to a specific app, compare the rates for calling the specific number you need to reach, as pricing can vary. Also, consider the call quality, which can be affected by internet connection strength. Most apps offer free test calls to evaluate the service before you add credit or subscribe to a plan. Be aware that using some apps might require the person you are calling to also have that app installed.What's the time difference, to avoid calling at inconvenient hours?
Ireland operates on Irish Standard Time (IST) which is Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) + 1 hour during Daylight Saving Time (typically late March to late October) and GMT during the rest of the year. Therefore, the time difference between Ireland and your location depends on your location's time zone and whether Daylight Saving Time/Summer Time is in effect in both locations.
To determine the best time to call, you'll need to know your own time zone offset from GMT/UTC. A quick online search for "current time in [Your City]" will usually provide this information. Then, compare that to Ireland's current time (GMT+1 or GMT depending on the time of year). For example, if you are in New York (EST, GMT-5), and it's summer in Ireland, the time difference is 6 hours (GMT-5 vs GMT+1). So, if it's noon in Ireland, it's 6 AM in New York.
As a general guideline, if you are calling Ireland from the Americas, it's best to call in the afternoon or evening Irish time (Irish time = lunchtime to after work in the USA), to avoid waking people up in the middle of the night. If you are calling from Asia or Australia, the best time to call is generally in the morning Irish time, to align with business hours in your location. Weekday mornings and afternoons (Irish time) are generally considered suitable for business calls.
Is there a cheaper way to call you from Ireland than directly dialing?
Yes, there are significantly cheaper options than directly dialing an international number from Ireland. Direct dialing usually incurs high per-minute charges from your Irish mobile or landline provider. Utilizing Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, calling cards, or apps that leverage internet connectivity can drastically reduce the cost.
Alternatives offer lower rates primarily because they bypass the traditional telecommunications infrastructure and associated international call charges levied by phone companies. VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, and Google Voice use the internet to transmit voice data, often requiring only a minimal data charge or a subscription fee, which is far less than international call rates. Calling cards provide a pre-paid balance specifically designed for international calls, offering competitive rates compared to direct dialing. When considering which method to use, factor in the call recipient's capabilities. If they have a smartphone and internet access, apps like WhatsApp or Skype are excellent, essentially free, options. If they only have a landline, a calling card or a VoIP service that allows calls to regular phone numbers is more appropriate. Consider the call duration as well; frequent, long calls justify exploring subscription-based VoIP plans for even lower per-minute rates.And that's all there is to it! We hope this guide makes calling us from Ireland a breeze. Thanks for taking the time to learn how, and we look forward to hearing from you soon. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance, and feel free to visit us again whenever you need help with other international calling tips!