Connecting with friends, family, or businesses in Taiwan from the United States is simpler than you might think. With a basic understanding of international dialing codes and a few considerations, you’ll be making those overseas calls like a pro.
The Essential Steps
- International Dialing Prefix: Always begin by dialing “011,” the exit code used for making calls outside of the USA.
- Taiwan’s Country Code: Next, dial “886,” which is the unique country code assigned to Taiwan.
- Area Code (City Code): Taiwanese phone numbers have area codes that vary depending on the location. Here are some major ones:
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- Taipei: 2
- New Taipei: 2
- Taichung: 4
- Tainan: 6
- Kaohsiung: 7
- Local Phone Number: This is the specific number you’re trying to reach, typically 6-8 digits long.
how to dial taiwan from usa
Example: Calling Taipei from the USA
Let’s say you’re calling a landline in Taipei, and the local number is 1234-5678. Here’s how the dialing sequence would look:
011 + 886 + 2 + 1234-5678
Mobile Phones vs. Landlines
- Calling a Mobile Number: If you’re calling a Taiwanese mobile phone, you’ll usually see it starting with “09” followed by 8 additional digits. When dialing from the US, you need to drop the leading “0”
- Example: To call the mobile number 0912-345-678 from the US, you would dial: 011 + 886 + 912-345-678
Additional Notes
- Plus Sign (+): You sometimes might see international numbers written with a “+” sign in front (ex: +886…). Simply replace the “+” with the US exit code “011.”
- Time Zones: Taiwan operates on Taiwan Standard Time, which is a significant time difference from the US. Be mindful of the time there before making your call.
Calling Options and Cost Considerations
- Landline or Cell Phone: You can typically make international calls from either. Check with your phone provider about international calling rates.
- VoIP Services: Apps like Skype, WhatsApp, or Zoom often offer cost-effective ways to make calls over the internet, especially if you have Wi-Fi.
- International Calling Cards: Prepaid calling cards can sometimes be a more affordable option, particularly for long landline calls.
Tips for Smooth Communication
- Language Barriers: If you don’t speak Mandarin, the primary language in Taiwan, see if the person you’re calling can communicate in English or enlist the help of a translator.
- Potential Fees: Be aware that the person you’re calling in Taiwan could incur charges for receiving an international call, depending on their phone plan.
- Alternative Communication: Messaging apps that are popular in Taiwan, like LINE, provide other ways to connect for free if traditional voice calls are cost-prohibitive.
Resources for Finding Taiwanese Area Codes
Should you need to look up area codes for other Taiwanese cities, here are some helpful resources:
Beyond the Basics
International calling doesn’t have to be intimidating. By following these steps and keeping the potential cost variables in mind, you’ll master the art of dialing Taiwan from the USA. Whether reaching out for business or personal reasons, a successful connection across continents is always within reach!
