Netherlands Phone Number Format: Local & International

Have you ever stared at a phone number from the Netherlands and felt unsure about how to dial it correctly? Understanding the Netherlands’ phone number format is key to smooth communication, whether for personal, business, or travel purposes.

A single missed detail can mean a failed connection! In this guide, we’ll break down the structure of Dutch phone numbers, explore dialing codes, and share tips to make your calls effortless. Stay connected wherever you are and show the power of a phone call.

Understanding the Netherlands Phone Number Format

The Netherlands keeps it simple when it comes to phone numbers. The format is logical and easy to remember, so whether you’re making a casual call or handling business, it gets you to the right person stress-free.

The country code (+31), an area code or mobile prefix, and the subscriber number are the three primary components of a standard Dutch phone number. When making an international call, the country code must be dialed. 

Every mobile number begins with 06 as a prefix to indicate that it is a mobile network, and an 8-digit subscriber number always follows. The Dutch number system simplifies dialing and helps avoid errors.

Whether you’re making domestic or international calls, it’s critical to comprehend the structure of Dutch phone numbers in order to communicate effectively. Because of the highly structured format, every component of the number has a specific function in effectively linking calls.

Types of Netherlands phone number format 

The format for dialing phone numbers in the Netherlands varies between domestic and international calls. Based on the type of call you need to make, refer to the information below.

Domestic Calls

If you’re in the Netherlands and want to call someone in a different city or town within the country, you can make the call in one of these ways:

Within the same area codes: If you’re calling within the same area code, you don’t need to dial the area code. Just dial the phone number, whether it’s a local or mobile number.

From different area codes: For local numbers, dial the area code first, then the subscriber’s phone number. For mobile numbers, just dial the phone number without the area code.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for making calls within the Netherlands, along with an example of a Dutch phone number:

1. For Dutch Landline Number: 

Dial: area code followed by the subscribed landline number. 

Example: 020-1234567 

(where 020 is the area code for Amsterdam).

2. For Dutch Mobile Phone Number:

Dial: mobile phone prefix (06), then dial 8-digit mobile number. 

Example: 06-12345678.

3. For Dutch Toll-Free Number: 

Dial the toll-free prefix (800), then follow with the toll-free number. 

Example: 0800-1234567.

International Calls

To call the Netherlands from an international location, you must adhere to the established international dialing conventions. This involves using your home country’s international dialing prefix followed by the country code for the Netherlands, which is +31.

Here is a step-by-step process for executing international calls to the Netherlands in general:

1. Dial your country’s international access code.
2. Input the country code for the Netherlands (+31).
3. Proceed with the local number, omitting the leading zero if present.

Make sure that you are familiar with your specific country’s dialing protocol to ensure a successful connection.

1. For the Dutch landline number: 

Step 1: Dial the exit telephone code of your country. 

Step 2: Enter the Netherlands country code (+31).

Step 3: Dial the specific area code of the city or region of the Netherlands.

Step 4: Finally, enter the Dutch landline number. 

Example: If calling from the USA, you would dial 011-31-20-1234567 (where 011 is the USA exit code and 20 is the area code for Amsterdam).

2. For the Dutch mobile phone number:

Step 1: Enter your country’s exit code.  

Step 2: Dial the Netherlands country code – +31.

Step 3: Enter the mobile phone prefix – 06.

Step 4: Input an 8-digit Netherlands mobile number.

Example: 011-31-6-12345678 (if calling from the USA).

3. For a Dutch toll-free number: 

Step 1: Input the exit telephone code of your country. 

Step 2: Dial +31, which is the Dutch telephone code.

Step 3: Enter 800, which is the toll-free prefix.

Step 4: Dial the Dutch toll-free number. 

Example: 011-31-800-1234567 (if calling from the USA).

List of Popular Area Codes in the Netherlands

Following are some of the most popular area codes of the Netherlands:

How to Dial Netherlands Phone Numbers? 

If you are looking for the calling format of the Netherlands, then you must read the given steps carefully. Then, follow the steps on your mobile phone and call your relatives, friends, or clients living in the Netherlands.

Step 1: If you are calling from outside the Netherlands, you must enter your country’s exit code.

For example, if you are calling the Netherlands from the USA, dial “011.” 

Step 2: Then, enter 31, which is the country code of the Netherlands.

Step 3:  Now, dial the specific area code of the city or region of the Netherlands (e.g., 10 for Rotterdam ) you are going to call. You can skip this step if you are dialing the Netherlands mobile number.

Step 4: Dial a Netherlands local or mobile number and enjoy your conversation.

Things to Consider Before Making a Dutch Phone Call

Several factors should be considered before making a call to the Netherlands. Understanding these elements helps you call successfully without any issues.

1. Difference Between Mobile and Landline Numbers

Like many other countries, the Netherlands has different formats for mobile and landline phone numbers. While the total number of digits usually counts to ten, Dutch landline numbers start with the area code, whereas mobile numbers always start with ‘6’.

2. Area Codes

Area codes are part of landline numbers that reflect the specific geographic location of the phone. They help route telephone calls to their intended destination.

3. Trunk Code

The trunk code is the digit you dial before the area code when making a telephone call within a country. In the Netherlands, the trunk code is ‘0’. To call a local number within the country, you would typically dial 0, followed by the area code and the receiver’s number. However, when making international calls, it is important to omit the trunk code.

4. Time Zone Differences

When connecting with someone in the Netherlands, it’s essential to consider time zones. The country follows Central European Time (CET), which is UTC +1. During daylight savings time, from late March to late October, it shifts to Central European Summer Time (CEST), or UTC +2. To align with the Dutch business day, aim to make calls between 10 AM and 4 PM local time for optimal communication.

Common Mistakes and Issues When Dialing Netherlands Number Format

Despite the simple structure of Dutch phone numbers, people still make mistakes while calling. Such errors can result in failed calls, confusion, or accidentally calling the wrong person.

1. Dialing Incorrect Format

Making a call might seem simple, but have you ever felt the frustration of a call not connecting because of a tiny mistake in the number? Knowing the proper phone number format is absolutely essential, whether it’s for a quick domestic chat or an important international conversation.

While calling the Netherlands from abroad, you’ll need to carefully enter the exit code, the Netherlands’ country code, the area code, and the subscriber’s number or mobile number. Every digit matters and even one wrong tap can leave you disconnected.

2. Including the Leading Zero on International Calls

In NL phone number format, when calling from overseas, it’s important to remember that you must not include the leading zero in the area code or mobile prefix. 

For example, if you’re dialing 010-1234567, a Rotterdam number from abroad, you should dial +31-10-1234-567. Similarly, instead of 06-12345678, dial +31-6-12345678 for a mobile number.

3. Poor Connection

There may come a time when a call doesn’t get through despite dialing the correct number format. In such cases, rather than blaming yourself, your connections might be at fault. That may be because of connection overload or issues with your network.

Sometimes, a call doesn’t get through even if you have dialed the correct number format. This can happen due to a bad connection or even human errors, so there is no need to blame yourself.

Final Words

Staying connected with loved ones or colleagues shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle, but dialing the wrong number can quickly turn into a frustrating experience. Understanding the Netherlands’ phone number format is your key to smooth and stress-free communication.

Whether it’s a friendly chat with someone in Amsterdam or a critical international business call, knowing how to format landline, mobile, and toll-free numbers ensures you reach the right person without a hitch. With the proper area codes and prefixes in place, you’ll never miss a moment or an opportunity.

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of Dutch phone number formats, you can dial with confidence and stay connected no matter where in the world you’re calling from because every connection counts!

FAQs

How do I get a Dutch phone number?

Choose a provider like KPN, Vodafone, or T-Mobile, and purchase a SIM card (prepaid or postpaid). For postpaid plans, you’ll need ID and proof of address. Activate the SIM to start using your Dutch number.

What is the cost of calling the Netherlands from abroad?

Costs range from $0.10 to $2 per minute with standard providers. VoIP apps like Dialaxy or WhatsApp often offer free or low-cost options if you use the internet.

Can I use a Netherlands phone number for international business?

Yes, a Netherlands phone number is great for international business. You can use virtual or VoIP numbers to make it accessible globally, while maintaining a local presence in the Netherlands.

What’s the difference between landline and mobile formats?

Landline numbers start with area codes like 020 (Amsterdam) or 010 (Rotterdam), while mobile number starts with 06 or 097 for personal or virtual numbers.  
Both can be used locally or internationally by adding the country code +31.

Are there any restrictions on using virtual Dutch numbers? 

Yes, virtual Dutch numbers must comply with Dutch regulations. They may require proof of identity or a local address, and certain uses, like fraud or spam, are strictly prohibited.

How many digits is a Netherland phone number?

Netherlands phone numbers are 10 digits. This structure includes an area code, which can be either 2 or 3 digits, followed by a subscriber number of either 6 or 7 digits.

What country’s phone code is +31 6?

The phone code +31 6 is for the Netherlands. The +31 is the country code, and the 6 indicates a mobile number within the Netherlands.

How do I enter a Netherlands phone number?

To enter a Netherlands phone number, use the format +31 followed by the number without the leading 0. For example, a mobile number would be +31 6 1234 5678.