Have you ever tried dialing any foreign number and found yourself in a battle with the format and codes involved?

Knowing how Icelandic phone numbers work will save you lots of time and frustration to make sure no mistakes are made in your communication, be it with a friend, business or contact center. 

This blog is all about explaining the very simple structure of Iceland’s phone number format and giving you some of the essential tips on how to dial properly.

So, let’s get going 🚀

🔑Key Takeaways
  • Iceland phone number format consists of a straightforward 7-digit subscriber number preceded by the country code +354.
  • Unlike many countries, Iceland does not use area codes.
  • The primary emergency number in Iceland is 112.
  • To call Iceland from another country, you must first dial the international exit code specific to your country, followed by +354 and then the 7-digit local number.
  • When calling Iceland, consider the time difference (GMT) and avoid weekends and public holidays.

What is the Iceland Phone Number Format?

what is iceland phone number format

Icelandic phone numbers have a straightforward format with no area codes. They include a country code followed by the subscriber number and follow the E.164 standard. It supports up to 15 digits in total, including the country code. Here are a few things to know before you get started:

Exit Code

To call Iceland from another country, begin with the exit code specific to the country you are calling from. For instance:

  • 011 for the US and Canada
  • 00 for most European countries

This code connects your call to the international network.

Country Code

Next, dial Iceland’s country code, +354, which ensures your call is routed to Iceland’s telecommunications network. The country code is mandatory for all international calls to Iceland.

Subscriber Number

Icelandic phone numbers consist of a 7-digit subscriber number. The numbering system is straightforward, with no area codes involved. This uniformity makes dialing and remembering Icelandic numbers easier.

For example:

  • Local format: 123 4567
  • International format: +354 123 4567

Key Features 

  • No Area Codes: All numbers across Iceland follow the same 7-digit structure.
  • Uniform Format: Both landline and mobile numbers adhere to this simple system.

What are the Types of Phone Numbers in Iceland

what are the types of phone numbers in iceland.

1. Landline Numbers

Icelandic landline numbers are part of the country’s closed numbering system. They consist of 7 digits and do not require an area code, as Iceland has no regional prefixes. This makes the system simpler than those of countries with multiple area codes.

  • Example: A landline number can look something like 456 7890.
  • International Format: When calling from outside Iceland, include the country code +354, resulting in a number like +354 456 7890.

2. Mobile Numbers

Mobile numbers in Iceland also follow the 7-digit format, starting with specific prefixes such as 6, 7, or 8. Unlike some countries, Iceland doesn’t use distinct formats for mobile numbers, which keeps the system uniform and easy to navigate.

  • For Example: A typical mobile number could be 678 1234.
  • International Format: To call from abroad, use the format +354 678 1234.
  1. Mobile Network Providers

Iceland has several mobile network operators offering services for local and international calls, SMS, and data. Some of the major providers include:

  • Síminn
  • Vodafone Iceland
  • Nova

Each provider may have specific prefixes assigned to its network, helping identify which carrier a number belongs to.

📝Note: Store numbers in the E.164 format (+354 678 1234) to ensure compatibility with international communication apps.

3. Special Numbers

  1.  Emergency Numbers

The primary emergency number in Iceland is 112. This number is free to call and connects users to services like police, fire departments, and medical assistance.

  • Format: Emergency numbers are typically 3 digits for quick and easy access.
  • International Standard: The number 112 is part of the European emergency call system, making it familiar to travelers from other European countries.
Service Number Description
Police and Emergency Services 112 The central number for police, fire, and medical emergencies
Poison Control  543 2222 For poison-related emergencies
Mental Health Services 112 Access to emergency mental health services
Tourist Emergency Helpline +354 444 1234 Assistance for foreign tourists in Iceland
  1.  Toll-Free Numbers

Toll-free numbers in Iceland generally begin with 800. These numbers allow callers to connect with businesses or services without incurring charges, as the recipient bears the cost.

  • Example: A toll-free number might be 800 1234.
  • Uses: Customer service lines, helplines, and business inquiries.
  1.  Premium Rate Services

Premium rate numbers in Iceland often start with 900. These numbers are used for services that incur higher charges, such as:

  • Entertainment services (e.g., voting lines or quizzes).
  • Information hotlines.
  • Paid consulting or technical support.
  • Example: For weather information service, dial 900 1234 for detailed forecasts.
💡You might also learn: How VOIP Outperforms Traditional Phone Service in Cost and Efficiency?

How to Call Iceland?

A. Calling Within Iceland

When making calls within Iceland, the dialing format is straightforward due to the absence of area codes. All phone numbers consist of 7 digits. Here are the key points:

Number Format: Local numbers are formatted as XXX XXXX.

Emergency Number: The universal emergency number in Iceland is 112.

Both mobile and landline numbers follow the same 7-digit format, with the first digit indicating the service type.

For instance, mobile numbers typically start with digits 3, 6, 7, or 8.

B. Calling Iceland from Abroad

To call Iceland from another country, follow these steps:

  • Dial the International Access Code: This varies by country. For example, in the US and Canada, it is 011.
  • Dial the Country Code for Iceland: The country code for Iceland is +354.
  • Dial the Local Number: After the country code, dial the local 7-digit number.

For example:

If you are calling a Reykjavik number (e.g., 123 4567) from the US, you will dial: 011 +354 123 4567

Alternatively, using a mobile phone, you can often use: +354 123 4567

C. Calling Abroad from Iceland

When calling internationally from Iceland, you need to follow these steps:

  • Dial the International Prefix: In Iceland, this is typically 00.
  • Dial the Country Code of the Destination: Each country has its own unique country code.
  • Dial the Local Number: Finally, enter the local number you wish to reach.

For example: To call a number in the United Kingdom (e.g., 20 1234 5678) from Iceland, dial 00 +44 20 1234 5678

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Calling Iceland

When dialing Icelandic phone numbers, it’s essential to be mindful of some common errors that can disrupt your communication.

  • Forgetting the country code.
  • Misunderstanding the local vs. international format.
  • Overlooking time zone differences.

How to Get a Virtual Iceland Phone Number?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started

Step 1: Choose a Provider:

Select a reliable virtual phone service provider (e.g., Google Voice, Sonetel, Global Call Forwarding).

Step 2:Select Number Type:

Choose between local, toll-free, or mobile Icelandic numbers.

Step 3:Sign Up and Verify:

Create an account, verify your identity, and link your payment method.

Step 4:Pick a Number:

Choose from available Icelandic numbers with country code +354.

Step 5:Set Up Features:

Configure call forwarding, voicemail, and other features.

Step 6: Download App/Use Web Access:

Manage calls and messages through an app or web portal.

💡Also Explore: Virtual Phone Number Providers for International Calling: Best Options

Best Times to Call Iceland

Only knowing the Iceland phone number format is not enough. When making a call to Iceland from abroad, one should check his or her clock and be sure he/she shall call at an opportune time. The Icelandic practice throughout the year is Greenwich Mean Time, which never uses daylight saving time. It gets rather complicated if you are going to call from countries practicing daylight saving time or from areas in other time zones altogether.

Tips on Optimal Calling Hours

  • Business Hours:

The typical working day in Iceland runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM GMT. If you’re calling for professional reasons, it’s best to reach out during these hours, ensuring that you’re contacting someone when they are likely to be available.

  • Personal Calls:

If you’re calling friends or family, it’s polite to avoid early morning or late-night calls. Aim for midday to early evening, which corresponds to reasonable waking hours in Iceland (from about 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM GMT).

  • Avoid Weekends and Public Holidays:

Like many countries, weekends and public holidays in Iceland see fewer people working, so it’s a good idea to schedule calls earlier in the week, Monday through Thursday, to increase the chances of reaching someone.

Time Zone Difference with Iceland

Location Time Zone Time Difference with Iceland (GMT) Best Time to Call Iceland
New York, USA Eastern Standard Time (EST) -5 hours 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM EST
Los Angeles, USA Pacific Standard Time (PST) -8 hours 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM PST
London, UK Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) 0 hours 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM GMT
Paris, France Central European Time (CET) +1 hour 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM CET
Tokyo, Japan Japan Standard Time (JST) +9 hours 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM JST
Sydney, Australia Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) +10 hours 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM AEST
Dubai, UAE Gulf Standard Time (GST) +4 hours 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM GST
Mumbai, India Indian Standard Time (IST) +5 hours 30 minutes 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM IST

In summary, the combination of proper practice in dialing and knowledge of the Iceland phone number format will enable one to communicate effectively and make it more productive.

Once you know the best times for calling and exactly how to make that call, then it gets very easy to connect with Icelanders.

It is quite easy to acquire and manage an Icelandic number using Dialaxy, which is made flexible and efficient for your communication strategy.

FAQs

What is the format of Icelandic phone numbers?

Icelandic phone numbers consist of a 7-digit subscriber number preceded by the country code +354 for international dialing.

How do I call Iceland from abroad?

To call Iceland from abroad, dial the exit code of your country (e.g., 011 for the US), followed by the country code +354 and then the 7-digit local number.

What is the cost of calling Iceland?

The cost of calling Iceland varies based on the provider, but international calls are typically priced higher than local calls, with rates differing by country.

How do I obtain an Iceland phone number?

You can obtain an Icelandic phone number through a local telecom provider or by purchasing a virtual number through international virtual phone services.

Are there cost-effective calling solutions for Iceland?

Yes, cost-effective solutions such as VoIP services (e.g., Skype, Google Voice) and virtual phone numbers can significantly reduce international calling costs.

Why are there no area codes in Iceland?

Iceland uses a simple phone numbering system with only a country code (+354) and a 7-digit subscriber number, which eliminates the need for area codes. This system is efficient due to Iceland’s small population and geographic size.

Prasanta Raut

Prasanta, founder and CEO of Dialaxy, is redefining SaaS with creativity and dedication. Focused on simplifying sales and support, he drives innovation to deliver exceptional value and shape a new era of business excellence.

Prasanta, founder and CEO of Dialaxy, is redefining SaaS with creativity and dedication. Focused on simplifying sales and support, he drives innovation to deliver exceptional value and shape a new era of business excellence.