Colombia Phone Number Format: A Quick Review

Dialing a phone number in Colombia can feel like solving a puzzle, especially if you’re new to the country’s specific phone number format. Whether you’re a business owner looking to connect with clients across different regions or just trying to stay in touch with loved ones, dialing the correct format is key to avoiding those annoying call errors. 📞

Colombia’s phone numbering system has its own set of rules, including distinct codes for landlines and mobiles, and missing just one detail can leave you redialing and frustrated. If you’ve ever been stuck figuring out which code goes where you’re definitely not alone! 😫

In this guide, We’ll walk you through Colombia phone number format, step-by-step dialing structure, and useful tips to ensure every call connects seamlessly, whether you’re calling locally or internationally.

Let’s get started!!!

What is Colombia’s Phone Number Format?

The Colombia phone number format is a structured sequence used to ensure calls reach the correct destination within the country. This format comprises the country code, an area or network prefix, and a local subscriber number.

To call a Colombian number, start with the country code +57, followed by a 3-digit area code for landlines or a 3-digit prefix for mobile numbers. The local number, which follows the code, typically includes seven digits for both landlines and mobile numbers.

For example, a complete Colombian number would look like this: +57 601 1234567

Here’s the breakdown:

• +57 represents Colombia’s international country code.
• 601 serves as the area code (in this example, for Bogotá).
• 123 4567 is the individual’s local subscriber number.

Types of Colombia Phone Numbers

Colombia’s phone system includes various types of numbers tailored to different needs. Here’s an overview of the main types:

1. Landline Numbers

Landline numbers in Colombia are region-specific, with each area assigned a unique area code. Landlines are commonly used by both households and businesses, often conveying a sense of local reliability. Many companies in Colombia prefer landline numbers as they signal a stable, nearby presence, making customers feel more at ease when reaching out.

Structure of a Colombian Landline Number: A Colombian landline number format includes the country code (+57), followed by the area code (3 digits), and then the local subscriber number (7 digits).

Example: +57 604 1234567

• +57 – Colombia’s country code.
• 604 – Area code (example for Medellín).
• 1234567 – Subscriber’s unique phone number.

Dialing Instructions:

From within Colombia:

• Simply dial the area code followed by the 7-digit local number.

Example: 604 1234567

From outside Colombia:

• Start with your country’s exit code (e.g., 011 from the USA).
• Dial +57 (Colombia’s country code).
• Enter the area code.
• Finish with the local 7-digit number.

Example: 011 57 604 1234567

2. Mobile Numbers

Mobile numbers in Colombia are structured to include the country code, a mobile prefix, and the subscriber’s number. These numbers are assigned to individual mobile devices and used for calls, messages, and internet access.

Structure of a Colombian Mobile Number: A Colombian mobile number format includes the country code (+57), a 3-digit mobile prefix, and a 7-digit subscriber number.

Example: +57 310 2345678

• +57 – Country code.
• 310 – Mobile prefix (assigned to different carriers).
• 2345678 – Subscriber’s unique number.

International Dialing Note: To dial a Colombian mobile number from abroad, replace “XX” with your country’s exit code.

Example: XX 57 310 2345678

3. Toll-Free Numbers

Colombian toll-free numbers start with 01-800 and are often used by businesses to provide free customer service or support lines. These numbers are free for callers, with the business covering the call charges.

Structure of a Colombian Toll-Free Number: The format is +57 01-800, followed by a 7-digit number.

Example: +57 01-800 5671234

• +57 – Colombia’s country code.
• 01-800 – Toll-free prefix.
• 5671234 – Subscriber’s toll-free number.

Dialing Tip for International Calls: When calling internationally, dial “XX” (your country’s exit code) before the toll-free number.

Example: XX 57 01-800 5671234

4. Emergency Numbers

Emergency numbers in Colombia are essential for fast response in urgent situations. These numbers connect users to emergency services like police, medical assistance, and fire departments.

Examples of Colombian Emergency Numbers:

• 123 – General emergency.
• 125 – Medical emergencies.
• 127 – Traffic police.

Codes for Dialing Colombia Numbers

Colombian phone numbers require a combination of codes to ensure accurate connections, whether dialing locally or from abroad. Here’s a breakdown of the essential dialing codes for Colombia:

1. Colombia Country Code: +57

The country code for Colombia is +57 and is required for any calls originating from outside the country. This code indicates that the call is meant for a Colombian recipient and must be dialed first when making international calls to Colombia.

Example: If calling from the United States to Colombia, start by dialing 011 (US exit code), followed by 57 (Colombia’s country code), and then the area code and local number.

2. International Dialing Prefix

When making an international call to Colombia, you need to use the international dialing prefix specific to your country. This code, also known as the “exit code,” allows calls to leave the country of origin and reach the destination’s country code. Some common exit codes include:

• 011 for the United States and Canada.
• 00 for most European countries.
• 001 for Japan.

To place an international phone number format call to Colombia, combine the exit code, +57, and then the rest of the Colombian number.

3. Area Codes for Landline Numbers

Colombian landline numbers include 3-digit area codes that identify specific regions or cities. Here are some notable examples:

• Bogotá – Area code 601
• Medellín – Area code 604
• Cali – Area code 602

When calling a Colombian landline internationally, use the format exit code + 57 + area code + 7-digit local number.

Example: To call a Medellín landline from Canada, dial 011 57 604 1234567.

4. Mobile Number Prefixes

Unlike landlines, Colombian mobile numbers do not use area codes but instead have 3-digit prefixes that indicate the mobile network. Common mobile prefixes include:

• 300, 301, 302 – Various mobile networks
• 310, 311, 312 – Assigned to different carriers

To call a Colombian mobile phone, you need to dial exit code + 57 + mobile prefix + 7-digit number.

Example: To reach a Colombian mobile from the UK, dial 00 57 310 7654321.

5. Toll-Free Numbers

Colombian toll-free numbers allow callers to reach businesses or organizations without incurring charges. These numbers generally start with the prefix 01-800 and are used mainly for customer support and service hotlines.

To dial a Colombian toll-free number internationally, combine exit code + 57 + 01-800 + 7-digit toll-free number.

Example: Dialing from the US might look like 011 57 01-800 1234567.

How Many Area Codes Are There In Colombia?

How to Dial Colombia Phone Numbers

Step-by-Step Guide for International Call

To call a number in Colombia from abroad, follow these steps:

1. Dial the Exit Code: Start with your country’s exit code (e.g., 011 for the U.S. and Canada).
2. Enter the Colombia Country Code: Use +57.
3. Add the Area or Mobile Code: Landline numbers need the city’s area code (e.g., 1 for Bogotá), while mobile numbers use the three-digit network prefix.
4. Dial the Subscriber Number: Finish by entering the seven-digit subscriber number.

Example: To call a Bogotá landline, dial 011 + 57 + 1 + seven-digit number.

Step-by-Step Guide for Local Calls

When calling within Colombia, use these simple steps:

1. Landline to Landline: Dial the area code and subscriber number directly.
2. Mobile to Mobile: Just dial the full 10-digit mobile number (prefix + subscriber number).
3. Landline to Mobile or Vice Versa: Include the area or network code if calling between a landline and mobile.

What Is the Best Time To Call Colombia?

Colombia operates on Colombia Time (COT), which is UTC -5 and does not observe daylight saving time. For business calls, the best time is 9 AM to 6 PM COT, matching typical working hours, while personal calls can be made between 9 AM and 9 PM COT. 

When calling from other time zones, keep in mind the following: Eastern Standard Time (EST) is the same as Colombia’s time, Pacific Standard Time (PST) is 3 hours behind, and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is 5 hours ahead. Using a World Clock or timezone app can help you make calls at convenient hours.

Final Words 

Calling Colombia is straightforward when you understand the country code, area codes, and dialing procedures. Whether you’re dialing locally or from abroad, this guide equips you with the knowledge to make smooth and reliable calls. Always check the local time before calling to ensure it’s convenient for the person you’re contacting.

FAQs

How is a Columbian phone number formatted?

Start with the country code (+57), add the area or network code, followed by the seven-digit subscriber number.

How many digits are in a Columbian phone number?

Colombian landline numbers are 7 digits, while mobile numbers consist of a 3-digit prefix plus 7 digits.

What are the common mistakes to avoid when dialing Columbian numbers?

Ensure you dial the correct country code and area code, as incorrect codes may connect you to a different location.

How do I write a Colombian phone number?

Include +57, the area code (for landlines), or the mobile prefix, followed by the subscriber number.

What country code is 57 304 Colombia?

The code +57 304 is a mobile prefix in Colombia. The 57 is the country code for Colombia, and 304 is a prefix used for mobile numbers assigned to specific cellular providers.

What country code is 57 302?

The code +57 302 is also a mobile prefix in Colombia. The 57 country code represents Colombia, and 302 is another prefix for Colombian mobile numbers, indicating a specific mobile network.

Which country code is 57 317?

The code +57 317 follows the same format, with 57 as Colombia’s country code and 317 as a mobile prefix. This prefix is used by certain cellular carriers in Colombia for mobile numbers.