Bosnia and Herzegovina Phone Number Format: A Detailed Guide

Imagine needing to connect with a friend or business partner in Bosnia and Herzegovina but feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of international dialing.

Understanding the phone number format is crucial, yet many find it daunting.

By the end of this blog, you’ll be equipped with all the essential knowledge to dial confidently, whether it’s a landline in Sarajevo or a mobile number in Banja Luka.

So, let’s get Started🚀

What is Bosnia and Herzegovina Phone Number Format?

Bosnia and Herzegovina phone numbers follow a structured format, starting with the country code +387. The area codes vary by region, each representing different cities or areas. Typically, the subscriber number is 7 digits long, though it can differ based on whether it’s a mobile or landline number.

For example, a Bosnia and Herzegovinan phone number might look like this:

+387 33 123 456 (for a landline in Sarajevo) or +387 61 123 456 (for a mobile number)

Where,

Country Code: +387

Area Code: 33 (varies by region, each representing specific cities or areas)

Subscriber Number Length: Typically 7 digits

Phone Number types in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina, like many countries, use different types of phone numbers for various purposes. These phone number dialing formats are organized into four primary categories:

1. Mobile Numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mobile phone numbers are an essential feature of the country’s telecommunication topography. Normally, mobile numbers consist of 8-9 digits, including a particular prefix that indicates the name of the used network. The normal pattern is that such numbers begin with the country code +387, followed by a network-specific and subscriber number in that order.

Prefix: The prefix, often two digits long, identifies the mobile network. Examples include:

• +387 60 for HT Mostar
• +387 61 for BH Telecom
• +387 62 for M:tel

Example of a Mobile Number Format:

• +387 60 123 4567 (HT Mostar)
• +387 61 123 4567 (BH Telecom)
• +387 62 123 4567 (M:tel)

These mobile phone numbers are used for personal communication, text messaging, mobile internet, and a variety of other services available via mobile networks.

2. Landline Numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Landline numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina are essential for businesses and households. These only consist of 6-7 digits after the country code and area code. Landlines and mobiles both start with the country code +387.

Area Codes: Each city or region has a specific area code that comes after the country code.

• +387 33 is the area code for Sarajevo (the capital city)
• +387 51 is the area code for Banja Luka
• +387 32 is the area code for Tuzla

Example of a Landline Number Format:

• +387 33 123 456 (Sarajevo)
• +387 51 123 456 (Banja Luka)
• +387 32 123 456 (Tuzla)

Landline numbers are crucial for local businesses, service providers, and institutions that need to maintain consistent, reliable communication with customers and clients.

3. Toll-Free Numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Toll-free numbers are special phone numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina that allow callers to reach businesses, government agencies, and customer service centers without being charged for the call. These numbers are typically used for customer support, helplines, or inquiries related to specific services.

Prefixes: Toll-free numbers usually begin with a specific prefix like 0800 or 0900.

Example of a Toll-Free Number Format:

• +387 800 123 456
• +387 900 123 456

Toll-free numbers are commonly used by companies and institutions to encourage customers to make calls without worrying about call charges. They are essential for businesses to boost customer engagement.

4. Emergency Numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Emergency numbers are crucial for public safety and efficient emergency response in Bosnia and Herzegovina. These numbers provide direct access to emergency services, such as police, fire, medical assistance, and other critical services.

Key Features of Emergency Numbers:

• Short and Direct: Emergency numbers are generally short and designed for easy recall during critical situations.
• No Area Code: These numbers do not require an area code; they are simply dialed with the country code +387.

Some Emergency Numbers:

These emergency services are vital for public health and safety, ensuring that citizens can quickly reach the appropriate help in times of need.

How to Dial Bosnia and Herzegovina?

1. Domestic Calls: Dialing Within Bosnia and Herzegovina

When making calls within Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is essential to include the area code of the city or region you are calling. Area codes are vital for both landline and mobile numbers. Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Identify whether the call is to a landline or mobile number.
• Step 2: For landline numbers, dial the area code (e.g., 033 for Sarajevo or 051 for Banja Luka). Mobile numbers do not require area codes but use network-specific prefixes like 060, 061, or 062.
• Step 3: Dial the 7-digit subscriber number.

Example 1: Landline Call Within Bosnia

If someone in Sarajevo wants to call a friend in Banja Luka, they need to dial,051 234 567.

Where,

• 051 is the area code for Banja Luka.
• 234 567 is the local subscriber number.

Example 2: Mobile Call Within Bosnia

If a person in Mostar needs to call someone with a BH Telecom mobile number, they dial 061 123 456

where,

• 061 is the mobile prefix for BH Telecom.
• 123 456 is the subscriber number.

2. International Calls: Dialing To and From Bosnia and Herzegovina

For international calls, the process involves dialing exit codes, the country code, and the recipient’s number in the correct format. Here’s how:

1. Calling Bosnia and Herzegovina From Abroad

When calling Bosnia and Herzegovina from another country, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Dial the exit code of your country. For example:

• 011 (USA)
• 00 (Europe)

• Step 2: Enter the country code for Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is +387.
• Step 3: Dial the area code without the leading zero (e.g., 33 for Sarajevo).
• Step 4: Add the local number.

Example 1: Calling a Landline in Sarajevo from the USA

If someone in New York wants to call a business in Sarajevo, they need to dial 011 387 33 123 456, Where,

• 011 is the exit code for the USA
• 387 is the country code for Bosnia and Herzegovina
• 33 is the area code for Sarajevo
• 123 456 is the local number

Example 2: Calling a Mobile Number from the UK

If a person in London wishes to call a mobile user in Bosnia, they dial 00 387 61 987 654

Where,

• 00 is the UK’s exit code.
• 387 is Bosnia’s country code.
• 61 is the mobile prefix.
• 987 654 is the recipient’s number.

1. Calling International Numbers from Bosnia and Herzegovina

If you are calling internationally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Dial the exit code for Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is 00.
• Step 2: Enter the country code of the destination country (e.g., 1 for the USA, 44 for the UK).
• Step 3: Add the area code and local number of the recipient.

Example 1: Calling the USA from Bosnia

If someone in Tuzla wants to call a relative in Chicago, they dial 00 1 312 555 6789

Where,

• 00 is the exit code for Bosnia.
• 1 is the country code for the USA.
• 312 is the area code for Chicago.
• 555 6789 is the local number.

Example 2: Calling the United Kingdom from Bosnia

If a person in Mostar needs to call a business in London, they dial:00 44 20 7946 0123

Where,

• 00 is Bosnia’s exit code.
• 44 is the UK’s country code.
• 20 is the area code for London.
• 7946 0123 is the recipient’s number.

Know more about: ✈️International Phone Number Formats & Examples here.

Popular Area Codes for Bosnia and Herzegovina

Here’s the table with area codes of Bosnia and Herzegovina arranged in alphabetical order by city/region:

Time Zone Differences

Here’s a time zone difference table for Bosnia and Herzegovina (Central European Time – CET, UTC+1) with respect to other countries:

Dialing Tips and Recommendations

To save time, avoid errors, and keep costs manageable, follow these essential dialing tips and recommendations.

I. Cost-Effective Methods for International Dialing

International calls can be expensive, but there are several ways to minimize costs while staying connected with family, friends, or business associates in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

• Use VoIP Services: VoIP applications like Skype, WhatsApp, and Google Voice offer low-cost or free international calling options. These are especially useful for calling mobile and landline numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• International Calling Plans: Check with your telecom provider for affordable international calling packages that include Bosnia and Herzegovina. These plans often provide reduced per-minute rates.
• Local SIM Cards: If you’re visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina, consider purchasing a local SIM card from providers like BH Telecom, HT Eronet, or M:tel. This allows you to make domestic and international calls at lower rates.
• Calling Cards: International calling cards can also provide competitive rates for calls to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ensure the card supports the destination and provides a clear dialing format.
• Wi-Fi Calling: Many smartphones now support Wi-Fi calling, allowing you to make international calls over a Wi-Fi network at a lower cost than traditional cellular networks.

 II. Avoiding Common Dialing Mistakes

Even small mistakes in dialing can prevent your call from connecting. Here are some common errors related to Bosnia and Herzegovina Phone Number Format to avoid:

• Incorrect Country Code: Always include Bosnia and Herzegovina’s country code (+387) when dialing internationally. Missing or entering the wrong code will result in failed calls.
• Omitting the Exit Code: When dialing internationally from another country, include your country’s exit code (e.g., 011 for the US, 00 for most of Europe).
• Leading Zeros in Area Codes: Remove the leading zero from the area code when dialing from abroad. For example, Sarajevo’s area code 033 becomes 33.
• Misidentifying Mobile Prefixes: Mobile numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina use specific prefixes like 060, 061, or 065. Double-check the number format before dialing.
• Using Outdated Numbers: Ensure the number you’re dialing is up to date, especially if it belongs to businesses or government offices that may change their contact details.

III. General Tips for Seamless Dialing

• Check Time Zones: Bosnia and Herzegovina is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which may differ from your local time. Avoid calling during early mornings or late nights unless necessary.
• Save Numbers in International Format: Store all numbers in your phone’s contact list with the +387 country code. This ensures they can be dialed easily, whether locally or internationally.

Navigating the Bosnia and Herzegovina phone number format doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right information at your fingertips, you can easily connect with anyone across this beautiful country.

Whether you’re dialing for business or pleasure, remember these tips and tricks to ensure your calls are successful and hassle-free. Stay connected and enjoy the conversations that await!

FAQs

What is the country code for Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The country code for Bosnia and Herzegovina is +387.

How do I call Bosnia and Herzegovina from the US?

To call Bosnia and Herzegovina from the US, dial 011 (exit code), followed by 387 (country code), the area code (without the leading 0), and the local phone number.

Can I call Bosnia and Herzegovina for free?

Yes, you can make free calls to Bosnia and Herzegovina using VoIP services such as WhatsApp, Skype, or Google Voice, provided both parties have internet access and the service supports free international calls.

Can I use a VoIP service to make calls to Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Yes, you can use VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, and Google Voice to make calls to Bosnia and Herzegovina. These services offer low-cost or free options for international communication.

Are there any emergency numbers I should know in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Yes, here are the key emergency numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

• General Emergency: 112
• Police: 122
• Fire Department: 123
• Ambulance: 124
• Military Police: 1206