Country Code for Canada: Complete Guide for Travelers

In an increasingly interconnected world, it’s important to know how international communication works, and country codes are a central part of that. 

In this article, we’ll discuss why you should know the country code for Canada — for both travelers and businesses — and what exactly a country code is. 

We’ll also share the official country code for Canada and explain what it is used for. 

By becoming more knowledgeable about how these codes work, you’ll be better able to communicate with people from around the globe. 

Canada’s Country Code (+1)

Canada’s Official Country Code

The country code for Canada is +1.

And did you know that it’s the same country code used by the United States and probably close to a dozen countries in the Caribbean?

The regions also share a telephone number plan, called the North American Numbering Plan, so they all get lumped together.

When you’re dialing Canada from another country, you’ll need to use this code every time.

How to Make International Calls to and from Canada

How to Dial Canada from Abroad

Dialing a Canada phone number from another country can be easy, once you know the correct sequence of numbers.

Here’s how to call Canada well:

Step 1: Dial your country’s exit code (international access code).

Step 2: Enter Canada’s country code: +1.

Step 3: Add the Canadian area code.

Step 4: Dial the local 7-digit number.

Full Format: [Exit Code] + 1 + [Area Code] + [Local Number]

Example: Calling Toronto from the UK: 00 + 1 + 416 + 2345678

How to Dial Abroad from Canada

Dialing out to Canada is basically the same process, just different numbers.

Here are the steps to guarantee that your call works smoothly:

• Step 1: Dial Canada’s exit code: +011.

• Step 2: Enter the country code of the country you’re calling: +1.

• Step 3: Dial the area code of the Canadian number.

• Step 4: Dial the local phone number.

Dialing from the U.S. to Canada:

Dialing Canada from the U.S. is easier given that both countries use the +1 country code.

You can follow these steps:

• Step 1: Skip the 011 and the country code +1.

• Step 2: Dial the area code of the Canadian number.

• Step 3: Dial the local phone number.

Special Note:

For calls to the U.S. or other NANP countries (like Jamaica or Bermuda), you don’t need 011. Just dial 1 + area code + number.

Canadian Area Codes Overview

Canada has more than one or two area codes. Thanks to the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), every province and territory has its own unique codes.

Knowing the area codes can come in handy, especially if you have connections or family spread across Canada. To help you out and to help anyone else calling Canada, here’s a table to find each province and territory, along with their area code in the provinces:

Each section of the country has its area codes, and they typically correspond to a specific geographic region in order to use a larger city. So, whether you need to make a phone call or book a flight, pay attention to these numbers as they help route you where you need to go.

Other Ways to Call Canada

VoIP Services

Skype, WhatsApp, Zoom, and Viber are all services that allow you to make phone calls to Canada over the internet instead of through traditional phone lines.

This is a big advantage, as it’s frequently cheaper and sounds better than regular phone calls.

International Calling Cards 

If you’re traveling and want to keep in touch on a budget, international calling cards are your best friend.

They’re a lot cheaper than placing calls from one country to another, and they’re simple to use.

Mobile Apps from Canadian Carriers

Many Canadian mobile companies have their own apps that make Wi-Fi calling possible.

This allows you to make calls using Wi-Fi connections instead of just relying on mobile towers.

Great for when you’re in an area with bad reception or just want to avoid roaming fees.

eSIMs and Roaming Plans

Enjoy the convenience of eSIMs and roaming plans in Canada.

Not only do eSIMs allow you to switch carriers without swapping SIM cards, but roaming plans often offer inexpensive rates too.

So you can easily communicate without breaking the bank, be it to book your accommodation or navigate around town.

Helpful Tips for Calling Canada

Double-Check the Exit Code for Your Country

Before you start dialing within Canada, you want to make sure you’re using the correct exit code for your country.

That’s the code you use when calling internationally. If you don’t include it, your call won’t go through.

Timing Your Calls in Canada

Plan ahead to avoid calling at the wrong time. Check the local time in Canada.

Business calls are best 9 a.m.–5 p.m., personal calls evenings or weekends.

Save Numbers in International Format

Enter Canadian phone numbers in your phone in international format. That is, begin with +1, the area code, and the number itself.

It’s small but practical: it makes dialing much easier — especially when you’re on the go!

Consider Canada’s Time Zones When Calling

Canada is massive and spans six time zones. From the west, there’s Pacific Time, and on the east, you have Newfoundland Time.

Make sure you know which zone you are calling so that you don’t interrupt that person’s day. 

Use Messaging Apps for Quick Contact

Sometimes you just need to send a message or a voice note and don’t want to hop on a phone call.

That’s where an app like WhatsApp and Viber comes in. They are often cheaper than a phone call and super easy to use.

FAQ

1. Are Canadian VoIP numbers (like Google Voice) treated the same as regular numbers?

Yes, they do still use +1 but they might not always work the same with SMS or caller ID.

2. Can I use my Canadian country code for international SMS or MMS?

Yes, texting works with +1 just like calling.

3. When adding a Canadian phone number into my phone, should I always put +1?

Yes, it avoids problems when calling from abroad.

4. Can I use Canadian short codes for banks or services internationally?

Usually no, they are limited to Canadian carriers.

Conclusion

Canada’s country code is +1. It’s a small thing, but one that’s necessary for dialing in or out. 

If you’re traveling to Canada, or someone calling you in from out of the country, they need to know the country code for Canada to connect the call.

By just adding +1, you’ll prevent unnecessary confusion and make sure you’re always able to reach home, work, or your friends while on the road.