How to Call France from the USA? A Comprehensive Guide

Did you know that France consistently ranks among the top international call destinations for Americans? 

Whether you’re dialing to discuss business, share exciting news with a friend, or simply say “bonjour,” the process is simpler than you think!

International calling can feel like solving a puzzle, but with the right steps, it’s a breeze. This guide will break down everything from dialing formats to cost-saving tips so you can connect with France effortlessly.

So, ready to make your first (or next) international call without any hiccups? Let’s get started and learn How to call France from the USA!

Key Takeaways:

• Mobile calls may cost more than landline calls when making a call to France.
• Dial landline numbers as: 011 + 33 + Area Code + Number, Mobile numbers as: 011 + 33 + Mobile Prefix + Number, and Toll-free numbers as: 011 + 33 + Toll-Free Code + Number.
• Typically, calls from the US to France begin at approximately $4 per minute, depending on the carrier.
• In France, the ideal hours for making business calls are Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 6 pm CST.
• Before calling France from US, it’s important to consider exit codes, number types, dialing codes, area codes, international rates, and time differences.

Things to Think About While Calling France

Since you are learning how to dial France from US, let’s look at a few key things to consider that will help you to make the dialing process flawless before you begin. Here’s what you should know before communicating with someone in France:

1. Format for Dialing and Area Code

Knowing the right dialing sequence and area codes is crucial while making an international call. Dialing a number incorrectly might cause calls to inattentive recipients or failed connections.

In the same way, a good call to France depends on the dialing technique. When phoning France from the USA, you have to use the correct international dialing technique in a specific order:

• Exit Code: 011 (US international exit code)
• Country Code: 33 (France’s country code)
• Area Code: Every region in France has its own area code; for mobile numbers, the format begins with a 6 or 7 (omitting the leading 0 when dialing from abroad)
• Local Number: At last, dial the local phone number.

2. Time Zones Variations

France runs on Central European Time (CET), that is usually six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST). This means if it’s noon in New York, it’s already 6 PM in Paris. Knowing these time differences will help you avoid phoning at odsd hours.

3. Working Hours in Business

Monday through Friday, most French companies run from 9 AM to 6 PM. If your call is business-related, try to schedule it for regular French working hours to maximize your chances of reaching someone. For professional communication, avoid weekends and public holidays.

4. Mobile Compared to Landline

You will use different prefixes when phoning mobile numbers in France than for landlines. Landline numbers will vary depending on their area codes; mobile numbers usually begin with ’06’ or ’07. Remember that calling a mobile number could cost more than calling from a landline.

5. Call Etiquette

In communication, politeness is absolutely important. Depending on the time of day, start your chat with a suitable greeting like “Bonjour” (good day) or “Bonsoir” (good evening). Unless you are personally acquainted, always treat people formally.

Understanding France Area Codes

France’s area codes are integrated into its phone numbers and vary by region. Knowing these codes ensures your call reaches the right destination.

Regional Breakdown of France Dialing Codes

France Area Codes for Major Cities

The French Number Format for Landlines, Mobiles, and Toll-Free Numbers when Dailing from the US

1. Calling France’s Landline Number From the US

When dialing a French landline from the USA, your number format should look like this: 011 + 33 + Area Code + 8-digit landline number.

For example, calling a Paris number might look like 011 33 1 45 87 39 40. (Paris’ area code is 1. It starts with a 0 locally, but the 0 is omitted in international calls).

Here:

• 011 is the US exit code.
• 33 is the France country code.
• 1 is the area code of Paris.
• 45 87 39 40 is the telephone number.

2. Calling France’s Mobile Number From the USA

For mobile numbers, follow this format: 011 + 33 + 10-digit mobile phone number with Mobile Prefix (06 or 07).

For instance: 011 33 7 31 30 56 97.

In this example:

• 011 is the US exit code.
• 33 is the France country code.
• 7 is the mobile prefix (0 is omitted).
• 31 30 56 97 is the telephone number.

3. Calling France’s Toll-Free Number From US

When dialing a French toll-free number from the USA, the format should look like this:
011 + 33 + Toll-Free Code + Toll-Free Number

For example, calling a toll-free number in France might look like this: 011 33 800 234 567.

Here:

• 011 is the US exit code.
• 33 is the France country code.
• 800 is the toll-free code.
• 234 567 is the toll-free phone number.

Three Different Methods to Call France from the USA

An international call shouldn’t necessarily be a headache. Be it your telephone, a prepaid calling card, or the internet, there is a way that will do just fine for you. Here’s how you can connect with France from the USA:

Method 1: Using a US Cell Phone or Landline

Method 2: Using Prepaid Calling Card

Method 3: Using Internet

How to Call France From US Cell Phone or Landline?

1. Dial the Exit Code: Start with “011” for landlines or “+” for mobile phones.
2. Enter Country Code: Dial “33” for France.
3. Enter Area Code: Input the area code without leading zero.
4. Dial Local Number: Complete by dialing the local phone number.

This method is straightforward and effective for reaching any number in France.

How to Dial France from the US Using a Prepaid Calling Card?

1. Select a Card: Choose a prepaid card that allows calls to French landlines.
2. Locate Your PIN: Find the PIN number on your card.
3. Dial Access Number: Call the access number provided with your card.
4. Enter PIN: Input your PIN when prompted.
5. Dial French Number: Finally, dial the French number using the format discussed earlier.

Prepaid cards can offer significant savings compared to traditional phone services.

How to Call a French Number from the US via the Internet?

I. Use VoIP services

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services allow you to make phone calls over the Internet instead of using traditional phone lines. VoIP technology transforms your voice into digital signals that travel over Wi-Fi or mobile data.

How it Works:

• Choose a VoIP service like Dialaxy, Google Voice, or Zoom.
• Download and install your preferred app on your device (smartphone, tablet, or computer).
• Sign up for an account, and if needed, purchase credits or a subscription plan for international calls.
• Dial the French number with the country code (+33) and connect instantly over the internet.

II. Smartphone Apps

Download apps specifically designed for international calls, such as WhatsApp, Viber, or Rebtel. Many of these apps allow free calls between users or provide affordable rates for calling landlines in France.

How it Works:

• Install the app of your choice and register.
• Add the contact’s French number or connect through their profile (if using app-to-app).
• Place the call once both users are online.

III. Video Calls

Platforms like FaceTime (for Apple users) or Google Meet offer the advantage of video calls without the traditional charges that apply to telephoning. They are a great option for personal and business communications alike.

How it Works:

• Choose a platform and schedule a video call with the French recipient.
• Use their contact information (email or phone number) to initiate the call.
• Enjoy high-quality video and audio communication.

How Much Does it Cost to Call France from the US?

The cost of calling France from the USA depends on factors like your service provider, call method, and type of phone number you’re dialing (landline, mobile, or toll-free). Here’s a structured breakdown to help you understand:

1. Calling via Traditional Carriers

• Landline Calls: Rates range from $0.05 to $0.20 per minute.
• Mobile Calls: Rates are typically higher, around $0.10 to $0.30 per minute.
• Toll-Free Numbers: While these are free for the receiver in France, you may incur charges depending on your provider, often at the same rates as landline calls.

Traditional carriers can also charge connection fees, so be mindful of hidden costs.

2. Using VoIP Services (e.g., Dialaxy, Skype)

VoIP services are very affordable, offering some services at as low as $0.01 per minute for landline and mobile calls. Most VoIP platforms offer free calls to other users of the same service or heavily discounted rates for international calls.

3. Prepaid Calling Cards

Prepaid cards are another economical choice, with rates often between $0.02 and $0.10 per minute, depending on the provider. Check for any hidden costs, such as connection fees or card expiration policies.

4. Free Internet-Based Methods

The apps like FaceTime, Zoom, and WhatsApp offer free calls to France. But both the caller and receiver should have an internet connection and the app downloaded. These are ideal for casual or frequent calls since they completely eliminate per-minute costs.

Call France from the USA with Dialaxy

Calling France from the USA isn’t necessarily a headache anymore. Dialaxy makes it easy, affordable, and smooth, just like chatting with a friend down the street. The virtual French phone number lets you connect with your loved ones or handle business calls without any hassle of confusing dialing codes or high costs. It’s simple, clear, and reliable; all one could want in a calling service.

Why overthink it? Dialaxy provides an easy, hassle-free way of keeping close to the people and places that matter most. Whether it’s a quick hello or an important call, you will feel just a local phone number away from your loved ones.

Wrapping Up

You are ready to call France from the USA like a pro! With the right dialing code and a good sense of how this works, calling internationally is easier than it has ever been. Whether for personal or business calls, following these steps will ensure your call goes through with ease.

Not international codes, nor time zones, will be able to hold you back from connecting. Just call the people and enjoy the luxury of a familiar voice to get important updates, no matter where they are. Remember, all you need is good preparation for a successful call.

FAQs:

Is the area code needed to call France from the US?

Yes, to direct your call accurately, you must include the area code (omitting the leading 0) when dialing France from the US.