How to Call Norway from the US? A Complete Guide

So, one day, you just wake up and suddenly want to connect with your friend living in Norway, one of the happiest countries in the world. But boom! You have no idea how to make the calls to Norway? Well, you’ve just come to the right place!

Making international calls might sound difficult, but all it takes is precisely a few steps to make it easier than you think. This guide will take you through the whole process, giving you all the necessary comparisons in cost estimates, dialing codes, and tips for the best time to call.

So, let’s find out exactly how to call Norway from the US!

Understanding Norway Dialing Code and Format

Let’s start with the basic format and the dialing code of Norway; this will provide the background for making calls to Norway from the US successfully.

Norway Dialing Format

To call Norway from the United States, you will have to use the following general dialing pattern: Exit Code + Country Code + Area Code + Local Number

• Exit Code: This is 011 for the US and Canada when using a landline. For mobile phones, you can typically use the “+” symbol instead.
• Country Code: Norway’s country code is 47.
• Area Code: Unlike many countries, Norway doesn’t use separate area codes. Instead, all Norwegian phone call numbers are 8 digits long.
• Local Number: This is the specific 8-digit number you’re trying to reach.

For example, to call a Norwegian number 12345678, you would dial: 011 47 12345678

Where,

• 011: The US exit code to initiate an international call.
• 47: Norway’s country code.
• 12345678: The 8-digit Norwegian local number.

Norway Area Codes

Norway does not use traditional area codes in the same way many other countries do. Instead, all phone call numbers in Norway are structured under the +47 country code, and the first digits of the number can indicate the type or region of the phone line. It typically uses 2- or 3-digit area codes depending on the region.

Key Number Prefixes in Norway:

• 2xx, 3xx: Landline numbers, often linked to specific regions.
• 4xx, 5xx, 9xx: Mobile numbers.
• 8xx: Special numbers, including toll-free and premium-rate services.

How to Call Norway From US Using Landline?

Calling Norway from a US landline is straightforward. Follow these steps:

• Dial 011, the US exit code
• Dial 47, the country calling code for Norway
• Dial the local number: Finish by entering the local number of the person or business you’re trying to reach.

For example, if you’re making a local call to a number in Oslo (21 23 45 67), you would dial: 011 47 21 23 45 67

Tip: Double-check the number format to avoid dialing errors, especially if using an international calling card. 

How to Dial Norway From the US Using a Mobile Number?

The process for calling Norway from a US mobile phone is similar, with a slight variation. You can use the‘ +’ button instead of dialing “011” as the US exit code.

• Dial “+”; simply hold down the “0” key (which replaces 011 on most mobile phones)
• Dial 47 (Norway’s country code)
• Dial the local Norwegian phone number

Using the same Oslo number example, on a mobile phone, you would dial: +47 21 23 45 67

Tip: Many mobile carriers offer international calling plans that significantly reduce costs. Check with your provider for the best rates. 

How to Call Norway From the USA Using the Internet?

Calling Norway from the USA is easier and cheaper than ever, thanks to the internet! You can make calls using two simple methods: VoIP services and messaging apps.

I. Use VoIP Services

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) platforms like Zoom or Skype allow you to make phone calls over the Internet rather than using traditional home phone lines. These services work by converting your voice into digital signals that travel over Wi-Fi or mobile data.

How it Works:

• Choose a VoIP service like Google Voice, Skype, or Zoom.
• Download and install the app on your device (smartphone, tablet, or computer).
• Sign in or create an account.
• Select Norway from the list of countries (you’ll usually find this in the dial pad or contact section).
• Enter the 8-digit home phone number you want to call.

II. Use Messaging Apps

Apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Viber allow you to call for free as long as both you and the person you’re calling have the app and an internet connection. These apps don’t charge extra fees, so you can chat without worrying about the cost.

How it Works:

• Open the messaging app on your phone (WhatsApp, Messenger, or Viber).
• Make sure you’re connected to the internet (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
• Find your contact (they must have the app too).
• Tap the call button to make a voice or video call.

Both methods make calling Norway from the USA simple, cost-effective, and hassle-free. You typically don’t need to dial the country code. Instead, you can usually select Norway from a list of countries and then enter the local 8-digit number.

Norway Emergency Contacts: Dialing Codes and Numbers

Where there is an emergency, it is always vital to know how to reach Norwegian emergency services. Some of the critical numbers if you happen to need them are as follows:

These numbers are accessible from any phone, including international calls. If you are in the US and need to call an emergency number from the US to Norway, you still need to use the international dialing format.

When calling from the US, dial 011(US exit code) and +47(Norway country code) along with the emergency number.

For instance, to reach police in Norway from the US, you could dial: 011 47 112

Remember, these numbers should only be used in genuine emergencies.

When Is the Best Time to Call Norway from the US?

Norway operates on Central European Time (CET). This means that it is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) and 9 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time (PST). Here’s how to determine the best time to make your call:

Planning your local call around this time difference ensures you won’t interrupt someone during odd hours.

Best Times for Calling Norway from USA:

1. From the East Coast (EST): Late afternoon or evening (from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.) in the US works well since it’s morning or early afternoon in Norway.
2. From the West Coast (PST): Early morning (from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.) or late at night in the US matches daytime hours in Norway. This will match with business hours in Norway.

Things to Keep in Mind when Calling Norway:

1. Business Hours in Norway: Most Norwegian businesses operate from 8 AM to 4 PM local time. Avoid calling during these hours unless it’s work-related.
2. Daylight Saving Time (DST): During summer, Norway switches from DST to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which might slightly change the time difference. Always double-check the current time before calling.
3. Time Difference: If it’s 9 a.m. in New York (EST), it’s already 3 p.m. in Oslo. For the US West Coast (PST), 9 a.m. in Oslo is midnight in Los Angeles.
4. Weekends and Holidays: For personal calls, weekends are great. But keep in mind that Norway observes different public holidays.

To make sure your local calls to Norway are perfectly timed and convenient for everyone, remember to consider the Norwegian time zone. Scheduling your call during Norway’s waking hours will really help create a smooth and effective conversation, whether you’re connecting personally or for business.

Cost of Calling Norway from the US

The cost of calling Norway from the US can vary, depending on how you make the call. Here’s a breakdown of the different options and what you can expect to pay.

1. Standard Carrier Rates

Calling Norway using traditional landline or mobile services will cost anywhere between $0.10 and $0.50 per minute. The exact cost will depend on your service provider and whether you’re calling a mobile or landline number in Norway.

• Calls to Landlines: Typically cost between $0.10 to $0.25 per minute.
• Mobile Calls: These are generally more expensive, ranging from $0.20 to $0.50 per minute.

2. Internet-Based Calling (VoIP)

If you want to call Norway from the United States but not at the standard cost, then internet-based calling services like Skype and Google Voice offer the most significant savings. The cost is much lower than with the standard carriers.

• Skype: You can call Norway for as little as 0.41 cents per minute when using Skype’s paid services.
• Google Voice: You can make calls to landlines in Norway for 1 cent and Norway mobile for just 4 cents.

3. Toll-Free Numbers

In Norway, these are numbers that start with 800. Although these numbers are free of charge to the receiver, calling from the US may involve international charges. It is best to confirm with your carrier to check the possible fees involved in calling a toll-free number abroad.

4. Calling Cards

Other options include international calling cards. These cards can reduce the cost for frequent international callers since they often tend to be relatively cheap. Their charges start from $0.055 per minute for landlines and $0.261 per minute for mobile phones.

5. Internet-Based Applications (Free Calls)

Apps like Skype, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger allow you to make free calls over the internet. As long as both you and the person you’re calling are connected to Wi-Fi or have mobile data, you can make calls to Norway without paying any additional charges.

Tips for Saving on Calls to Norway

If you’re planning to call Norway often, there are ways to keep your costs down:

• Use VoIP Apps: Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Facebook Messenger are great options for free or low-cost international calls.
• Check for International Calling Plans: Check if there is an international calling plan with your mobile carrier. Most carriers have such plans that will bring down the per-minute charge when calling Norway.
• Consider International Calling Cards: If you don’t want to rely on apps, international calling cards offer affordable rates for long-distance calls to Norway.
• Wi-Fi or Internet Calling: If you have access to Wi-Fi or Internet, use Wi-Fi calling options available on most mobile phones. This often bypasses high international fees.

Dialing Norway from the US Using Dialaxy

Dialaxy is a telephony services provider that provides virtual numbers for the United States and Canada mainly. These numbers could be used for calling other international countries, one of which is Norway. Here’s how to do it:

How to Use Dialaxy for Calling Norway:

• Sign Up: Create an account on the Dialaxy website or app.
• Purchase Virtual Numbers: Acquire a virtual number of your preferred country like the U.S. or Canada.
• Make the Call: Use your virtual number to dial the Norwegian number with the +47 country code.
• Connect: Enjoy high-quality calls through the Dialaxy platform.

Benefits of Using Dialaxy:

• Virtual Numbers: Establish a local presence in the US or Canada while communicating internationally.
• Affordable Rates: Access competitive pricing that reduces the cost of calls to Norway. Pay less for getting calls to Norway or any other international destinations with very competitive rates.
• Smooth Call Forwarding: Forward calls from your virtual number to Norway for smooth communication.
• Service Reliability: Connect calls and enjoy clear audio on your personal calls and on business calls.

Conclusion

Calling Norway from US is pretty straightforward if you have the right tools and information. You simply have to get the right dialing format and exit code and then explore some options within landline, mobile phone, or internet-based platforms: it is then almost effortless to keep in touch.

This blog gave you some tips to help your call go smoothly, whether for work or just keeping in touch with a buddy. Just don’t forget to check the current time difference so you’re calling at the perfect moment. With such low-cost services as Dialaxy, your costs will significantly drop, but communication won’t be strained anymore. Now go ahead and make that call, confident and carefree!

FAQs:

Can I call Norway toll-free from the US free of cost?

While you can’t call Norwegian toll-free numbers for free from the US, many internet-based services offer very low rates for international calls.