Calling Taiwan from the United States is a straightforward process, but there are a few key steps you need to follow to ensure a successful connection. Firstly, you’ll need to know the country code for Taiwan, which is 886. This code is used before the local phone number you want to call.
Once you have the country code, you can start dialing the phone number. Dial 011 first, followed by the country code (886) and then the local phone number. For instance, if you want to call a landline in Taipei, you would dial: 011 886 2 2356 7890. Note that you should omit the leading zero from the local phone number when dialing from the US.
If you’re calling a mobile number in Taiwan, the process is slightly different. Dial 011 followed by 886 and then the mobile number. For example, to call a mobile number with the prefix 0912, you would dial: 011 886 912 123456. It’s important to remember that mobile phone numbers in Taiwan are typically 10 digits long.
Understanding the Country Code
When dialing Tawain from the United States, it is imperative to understand the country code. The country code is a unique numerical prefix assigned to each nation, allowing for international communication. For Tawain, the country code is 886. This three-digit sequence must be dialed before the local phone number when making calls from the United States to Tawain.
The Significance of the Country Code
- Identification: The country code serves as an identifier, distinguishing Tawain from other countries in the international dialing system.
- Routing: The country code guides the call through the global telecommunications network, ensuring that it reaches its intended destination in Tawain.
- International Standardization: Country codes are standardized globally, enabling seamless communication between countries.
Dialing the Country Code
To dial the country code for Tawain, follow these steps:
- Dial the exit code for the United States: 011
- Dial the country code for Tawain: 886
- Dial the local phone number in Tawain without the leading zero.
For example, to call a landline in Taipei, Tawain with the local phone number 12345678, the complete dialing sequence from the United States would be:
011 886 2 12345678
Dialing Taiwan from the USA
Choosing a Calling Method
There are several options available for making calls from the USA to Taiwan. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that’s most suitable for your needs.
1. Traditional Landline Call
- Pros: Consistently reliable call quality, widely available, affordable
- Cons: Requires a landline phone connection, may incur high long-distance charges
2. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)
- Pros: Crystal-clear call quality, cost-effective for long-distance calls, allows video conferencing
- Cons: Requires a stable internet connection, may not be supported by all devices
3. Mobile Phone Roaming
- Pros: Convenient for travelers, works in most parts of Taiwan
- Cons: High roaming charges, limited coverage in remote areas
4. Calling Card
- Pros: Prepaid calling cards offer flat rates, no need for a landline or internet
- Cons: May have limited expiration dates, may not be available in all locations
5. Call-Forwarding Services
- Pros: Allows you to receive calls from Taiwan as if they were local calls
- Cons: May require additional setup and costs, may not be available with all carriers
To make a call to Taiwan using a landline, dial the following code:
| Dialing Code | Destination |
|---|---|
| 011 | International dialing prefix |
| 886 | Taiwan country code |
| [Area Code] | Area code within Taiwan |
| [Local Number] | Local phone number within the area code |
For example, to call a landline in Taipei, you would dial 011 886 2 21234567.
Using a Landline
To call Taiwan from a landline in the United States, you will need to follow these steps:
- Dial the exit code for the United States. This is 011.
- Dial the country code for Taiwan. This is 886.
- Dial the area code for the city you are calling. This can be found in a table below.
- Dial the local phone number.
Here is a table of area codes for major cities in Taiwan:
| City | Area Code |
|---|---|
| Taipei | 02 |
| New Taipei City | 02 |
| Taichung | 04 |
| Tainan | 06 |
| Kaohsiung | 07 |
For example, to call a landline in Taipei from a landline in the United States, you would dial **011 886 2 [local phone number]**.
Utilizing a Mobile Phone
When dialing Taiwan from the USA using a mobile phone, follow these steps:
1. Ensure International Roaming is Enabled
Activate international roaming on your mobile device to allow it to connect to networks in Taiwan.
2. Dial the International Dialing Code
Enter the international dialing code for Taiwan, which is **+886**.
3. Remove the Leading Zero from the Area Code
For landline numbers in Taiwan, omit the leading zero from the area code. For example, for Taipei, the area code is 02, but you would dial **886 2** instead.
4. Dial the Area Code and Local Number
Enter the area code followed by the local seven-digit phone number.
Example: For Landline in Taipei, with local number 1234567, dial **+886 2 1234567**.
Example: For Mobile Phone with local number 987654321, dial **+886 987654321**.
Dialing Table
| Landline | Mobile |
|---|---|
| +886 [Area Code] [Local Number] | +886 [Local Number] |
Dialing a Specific Area Code
To dial a specific area code in Taiwan from the US, follow these steps:
- Dial the exit code for the US, which is 011.
- Dial the country code for Taiwan, which is 886.
- Dial the first 3 digits of the area code you are calling.
- Dial the remaining 7 digits of the phone number.
For example, to dial a number in the Taipei area code (02), you would dial:
| Exit Code | Country Code | Area Code | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| 011 | 886 | 02 | 12345678 |
Handling International Calling Fees
International calling fees can add up quickly, so it’s important to be aware of the costs before you make a call. There are a few things you can do to save money on international calls:
Choose the right phone plan
Some phone plans include international calling minutes, while others charge a per-minute fee. If you make a lot of international calls, it’s worth it to get a plan that includes international minutes.
Use a calling card
Calling cards can be a good way to save money on international calls. You can buy calling cards at most convenience stores and gas stations. When you use a calling card, you’ll need to dial the calling card number and enter your PIN before you can dial the international number.
Use a VoIP service
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services allow you to make international calls over the internet. VoIP services are often much cheaper than traditional phone calls. To use a VoIP service, you’ll need a broadband internet connection and a VoIP adapter.
Dial the number correctly
When you’re dialing an international number, you’ll need to include the country code. The country code for Taiwan is 886. To dial a number in Taiwan from the USA, you would dial 011 + 886 + the local number.
| Country Code | Country |
|---|---|
| 1 | USA |
| 886 | Taiwan |
Be aware of hidden fees
Some phone companies charge hidden fees for international calls. These fees can be for things like connecting the call or for using a certain type of phone line. Be sure to read your phone bill carefully so that you’re aware of all the fees that you’re being charged.
Avoiding Common Dialing Errors
Dialing the wrong country code
The country code for Taiwan is +886. Make sure to include this code before the area code and phone number.
Transposing numbers
Be careful not to transpose the numbers in the phone number. For example, don’t dial “943” instead of “493”.
Omitting the area code
The area code is necessary to complete the phone number. For example, the area code for Taipei is “02”.
Using the wrong phone number format
Taiwan uses a closed dialing system. This means that you need to dial the full phone number, including the area code, even when calling within the same area.
Not including the international dialing prefix
The international dialing prefix for the United States is “011”. Make sure to include this prefix before the country code.
Leaving out the exit code
The exit code for the United States is “01”. Make sure to include this code before the international dialing prefix.
Dialing additional digits
Do not dial any additional digits beyond the full phone number, as this will likely result in an incorrect call connection.
Using an International Calling Card
An international calling card is a prepaid card that allows you to make international calls from landlines or payphones. To use an international calling card, follow these steps:
- Purchase an international calling card. You can purchase calling cards at convenience stores, drugstores, and other retail locations.
- Find the access number for the calling card company. The access number is usually listed on the back of the calling card.
- Dial the access number from a landline or payphone. Wait for the voice prompt.
- Enter your calling card number. You will need to enter the 10-digit number printed on the front of the calling card.
- Enter the PIN number. The PIN number is usually printed on the back of the calling card.
- Dial the phone number you want to call. Be sure to include the country code.
- Wait for the call to connect.
- Enter the authorization code. The authorization code is a unique number that is generated each time you make a call. The authorization code is usually displayed on the screen or announced by the voice prompt.
Utilizing a VoIP Service
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services offer a convenient and cost-effective way to make international calls. To dial Taiwan from the USA using a VoIP service, you’ll need:
1. A computer or smartphone with an internet connection
2. A VoIP app or service
3. A microphone and speakers
Once you have everything set up, follow these steps:
- Open your VoIP app or service.
- Select Taiwan from the list of countries.
- Enter the Taiwan phone number you want to call, including the country code (886).
- Click the “Call” button.
You can also use a VoIP service to make calls to mobile phones in Taiwan. To do this, you’ll need to know the mobile phone number, including the area code.
Using a VoIP Service: Detailed Steps
- Choose a VoIP service: There are many VoIP services available, so it’s important to compare them before choosing one. Some of the most popular services include Skype, Google Voice, and Vonage.
- Create an account: Once you’ve chosen a VoIP service, you’ll need to create an account. This usually involves providing your name, email address, and a password.
- Download the VoIP app: Once you have an account, you’ll need to download the VoIP app. The app is available for both computers and smartphones.
- Set up your account: Once you’ve downloaded the app, you’ll need to set up your account. This usually involves providing your phone number and verifying your email address.
- Add contacts: Once your account is set up, you can start adding contacts. You can add contacts from your phone’s address book or by searching for them in the VoIP app’s directory.
- Make a call: To make a call, simply select the contact you want to call and click the "Call" button.
Costs of Using a VoIP Service
The costs of using a VoIP service vary depending on the service you choose. Some services offer free calls to certain countries, while others charge a monthly fee or per-minute rate. It’s important to compare the costs of different services before choosing one.
| Service | Monthly Fee | Per-Minute Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Skype | $0 | $0.022 per minute |
| Google Voice | $0 | $0.01 per minute |
| Vonage | $10 per month | $0.03 per minute |
Time Zone Considerations
When dialing Taiwan from the United States, it’s crucial to consider the time zone difference to avoid calling at inconvenient hours. The following table provides a breakdown of the time differences between major cities in the US and Taipei, the capital of Taiwan.
| US City | Time Difference (Taipei ahead) | Example |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | 12 hours | If it’s 10 am in New York, it’s 10 pm in Taipei |
| Los Angeles | 15 hours | If it’s 10 am in Los Angeles, it’s 1 am the next day in Taipei |
| Chicago | 13 hours | If it’s 10 am in Chicago, it’s 11 pm in Taipei |
| Dallas | 14 hours | If it’s 10 am in Dallas, it’s 12 am the next day in Taipei |
| San Francisco | 15 hours | If it’s 10 am in San Francisco, it’s 1 am the next day in Taipei |
