Calling America from Switzerland can be a daunting task if you’re not familiar with the process. However, with the right information, it’s actually quite simple. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make a call to the United States from Switzerland, including the country code, area codes, and how to dial a Swiss number. So whether you’re planning a business trip or just want to stay connected with family and friends back home, read on for everything you need to know.
To call America from Switzerland, you’ll need to start by dialing the country code, which is 1. Once you’ve dialed the country code, you’ll need to dial the area code of the city you’re calling. Here is a list of the most common area codes in the United States:
- New York City: 212
- Los Angeles: 213
- Chicago: 312
- Houston: 713
- Philadelphia: 215
Once you’ve dialed the area code, you’ll need to dial the seven-digit phone number. For example, to call the White House in Washington, D.C., you would dial 1-202-456-1111. Finally, remember to add a “0” before the area code if you are calling from a landline. Here’s a table that summarizes the format for calling America from Switzerland:
| Type of Call | Format |
|---|---|
| Landline to Landline | 00 1 (area code) (7-digit number) |
| Landline to Mobile | 00 1 (area code) (7-digit number) |
| Mobile to Landline | 00 1 (area code) (7-digit number) |
| Mobile to Mobile | 00 1 (area code) (7-digit number) |
Dialing the Country Code
When calling America from Switzerland, you must first dial the country code for the United States, which is 1. This is a three-digit number that is used to identify the country you are calling from. The country code for Switzerland is 41, so when calling America from Switzerland, you would dial 001.
To dial 001, you must first press the “+” key on your phone. This will indicate to your phone that you are making an international call. You then need to enter the country code for America, which is 1. After entering the country code, you can dial the rest of the phone number you are calling.
For example, if you are calling the White House in Washington, D.C., you would dial the following:
1 (202) 456-1414
Here is a table summarizing the steps on how to dial the country code for the United States from Switzerland:
| Step | Action |
|—|—|
| 1 | Press the “+” key on your phone. |
| 2 | Enter the country code for the United States, which is 1. |
| 3 | Dial the rest of the phone number you are calling. |
Entering the Area Code
When calling America from Switzerland, you’ll need to enter the area code of the city you’re calling in the United States. This code is typically three digits long and represents the geographical location of the city. For example, the area code for New York City is 212, while the area code for Los Angeles is 213.
To call a landline in America from Switzerland, you’ll need to dial the following:
- 00 – The international access code for Switzerland
- 1 – The country code for the United States
- Area code – The three-digit area code of the city you’re calling
- Local number – The seven-digit local number of the person you’re calling
For example, to call a landline in New York City from Switzerland, you would dial: 00 1 212 123-4567.
| Area Code | City |
|---|---|
| 212 | New York City |
| 213 | Los Angeles |
| 312 | Chicago |
| 415 | San Francisco |
| 617 | Boston |
Removing the Leading Zero (If Applicable)
When dialing a Swiss landline from America, you need to remove the leading zero from the area code. For example, if you’re trying to call Zurich, you would dial 044 123 4567. But when calling from America, you would dial 44 123 4567.
Here’s a table to help you with removing the leading zero:
| Swiss Area Code | Area Code Without Leading Zero |
|---|---|
| 01 | 1 |
| 02 | 2 |
| 03 | 3 |
| 04 | 4 |
| 05 | 5 |
Once you’ve removed the leading zero, you can follow the remaining steps to dial America from Switzerland.
Using a Calling Card
4. Dial the Access Number and PIN:
Once you have purchased a calling card, you’ll need to dial the access number provided on the card. This will connect you to the calling card provider’s network.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on dialing the access number and PIN:
- Dial the access number: This is a toll-free number that varies depending on the country you’re calling from and the calling card provider you’re using. You can find the access number on the back of the calling card or on the provider’s website.
- Wait for the prompt: Once you’ve dialed the access number, you’ll hear a recorded message asking you to enter your PIN.
- Enter your PIN: This is a secret code that you set up when you purchased the calling card. Enter the PIN carefully using the keypad of your phone.
- Dial the destination number: After entering your PIN, you’ll be prompted to dial the number you want to call in the United States. Enter the number in the following format:
- 1
- Area code (3-digit number)
- Phone number (7-digit number)
For example, to call a number in New York City, you would dial: 1-212-555-1212.
Using a Prepaid Phone Card
Benefits of Prepaid Phone Cards
Prepaid phone cards offer several advantages:
- Convenient and easy to use
- Control over spending limits
- No need for a landline or contract
Choosing a Prepaid Phone Card
When selecting a prepaid phone card, consider the following factors:
- Call rates: Compare rates to the US with different providers.
- Expiration dates: Check when the card expires and ensure it aligns with your calling needs.
- Fees: Look for hidden fees, such as connection or maintenance charges.
How to Use a Prepaid Phone Card
Follow these steps to use a prepaid phone card:
1.
Purchase a phone card from a convenience store, post office, or online retailer.
2.
Dial the access number provided with the card.
3.
Enter your PIN (personal identification number).
4.
Dial the area code and phone number in the US.
5.
Dialing Instructions:
| Country | Exit Code | Country Code |
|---|---|---|
| Switzerland | 00 | 1 |
For example, to call a number in New York City, dial 00 1 (212) 555-1212.
Dialing From a Landline
Calling America from a landline in Switzerland requires a few simple steps. Follow the instructions provided to ensure a successful connection:
1. Dial the international dialing code: Begin by dialing +41, which is the international dialing code for Switzerland.
2. Remove the leading zero from the area code: If the American number you’re calling begins with a zero, remove it before dialing.
3. Dial the area code: Enter the three-digit area code of the American city you’re calling.
4. Dial the seven-digit phone number: Input the seven-digit phone number you’re calling, without the leading zero.
5. Check the prefixes: Some landlines may require you to dial a prefix before the international dialing code. These prefixes vary depending on the service provider and region.
6. Specific prefixes for landline calls: The following prefixes may be required for landline calls, depending on your service provider:
| Prefix | Description |
|---|---|
| 00 | Standard prefix for international calls |
| 1155 | Salt Mobile prefix for international calls |
| 1331 | Swisscom Regio prefix for international calls |
| 1430 | Telecom FL prefix for international calls |
| 1860 | UPC Cablecom prefix for international calls |
7. Wait for the call to connect: Once you’ve entered the full number, wait for the call to be connected. Depending on your service provider and network conditions, it may take a few seconds or minutes.
Calling From a Mobile Phone
When calling America from Switzerland using a mobile phone, there are several steps you need to follow:
1. Dial the Exit Code
The exit code for Switzerland is 00.
2. Dial the Country Code
The country code for the United States is 1.
3. Dial the Area Code
The area code for the American city you’re calling.
4. Dial the Local Number
The seven-digit local phone number.
5. Calculate Time Difference
Consider the time difference between Switzerland and the American city you’re calling.
6. Use a Calling Card
Purchasing a calling card specifically for international calls can save you money compared to using your mobile provider’s roaming charges.
7. Use a Free Wi-Fi Hotspot or Data Roaming
If you have access to free Wi-Fi, you can use applications like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime to make calls over the internet. Alternatively, you can enable data roaming on your mobile phone, but be aware of potential additional charges.
For example, to call a landline number in New York City (area code 212) from Switzerland, you would dial:
| Step | Number |
|---|---|
| Exit Code | 00 |
| Country Code | 1 |
| Area Code | 212 |
| Local Number | 555-1234 |
| Full International Number | 00 1 212 555-1234 |
Using a VoIP Service
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services allow you to make calls over the Internet instead of using a traditional phone line. This can be a cost-effective option for calling abroad, as VoIP rates are often lower than those charged by traditional phone companies.
Choosing a VoIP Provider
There are a number of VoIP providers to choose from, so it’s important to do your research before selecting one. Some of the factors to consider include:
- Call quality
- Features (e.g., voicemail, caller ID, call forwarding)
- Price
- Customer support
Setting Up Your VoIP Service
Once you’ve chosen a VoIP provider, you’ll need to set up your account and install the necessary software. This process will vary depending on the provider you choose, but it’s generally straightforward.
To call America from Switzerland using a VoIP service, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Open your VoIP software.
- Dial the number you want to call, using the following format: +1 (area code) (phone number).
- Click the “Call” button.
Note: You may be prompted to enter a PIN or password before you can make a call.
Using VoIP Features
Once you’re connected, you can use a variety of VoIP features, such as:
- Voicemail
- Caller ID
- Call forwarding
- Video calling
The specific features available will vary depending on the provider you choose.
Tips for Using VoIP
Here are a few tips for using VoIP:
- Use a high-speed Internet connection for best call quality.
- Use a headset or headphones to reduce background noise.
- Be aware of the call rates for your VoIP provider, as some providers may charge extra for calls to certain countries.
Checking Call Rates
To ensure you don’t incur unexpected charges, it’s essential to check the call rates before making a phone call from Switzerland to the United States. Various factors can influence the cost, including the time of day, day of the week, and the type of phone service used.
You can typically find call rates by visiting your mobile carrier’s website or calling their customer service line. Some carriers also provide an online tool that allows you to calculate the cost of a call to a specific country.
Here are some additional tips for checking call rates:
- If you’re calling from a landline, dial the international access code (00) followed by the country code (1) and then the area code and phone number.
- If you’re calling from a mobile phone, dial the “+” symbol followed by the country code (1) and then the area code and phone number.
- If you’re using a calling card, the access code and instructions will be provided on the card.
It’s worth noting that call rates can vary significantly depending on the time of day. Calls made during peak hours (typically weekdays from 8am to 6pm) are usually more expensive than calls made during off-peak hours (evenings and weekends).
| Time of Day | Call Rate |
|---|---|
| Peak Hours | $0.25 per minute |
| Off-Peak Hours | $0.15 per minute |
By considering the factors mentioned above, you can find the most cost-effective way to call America from Switzerland.
Avoiding Hidden Fees
To avoid hidden fees when calling America from Switzerland, consider the following tips:
1. Use VoIP services
VoIP services, such as Skype, Viber, and WhatsApp, allow you to make free or low-cost international calls over the internet. This is typically the most cost-effective option for calling America from Switzerland.
2. Choose the right calling plan
If you plan on making frequent calls to America, it may be worth investing in a calling plan from your Swiss telecom provider. Plans vary in price, but can offer significant savings compared to pay-as-you-go rates.
3. Avoid calling during peak hours
Telecom providers often charge higher rates for calls made during peak hours (usually weekdays during business hours). Consider calling outside of these times to reduce costs.
4. Use a callback service
Callback services, like Rebtel and Localphone, allow you to connect with America by having the call initiated from the US to your Swiss number. This can result in lower call costs, especially for long-distance calls.
5. Consider purchasing a prepaid calling card
Prepaid calling cards can be purchased from convenience stores and online retailers. They offer a fixed number of minutes for a specific amount of money, eliminating the risk of unexpected charges.
6. Use a local area code
When calling America from Switzerland, you’ll need to dial the international code (011) followed by the 1 followed by the area code and phone number. Avoid using toll-free numbers (e.g., 800 or 888), as these may incur surcharges.
7. Check with your hotel or accommodation
Some hotels and accommodations offer free or discounted international calling services. Check with your hotel staff before making calls to avoid hidden fees.
8. Use a payphone
Payphones can be found in public areas throughout Switzerland. They generally accept Swiss francs, credit cards, or calling cards.
9. Ask for a local assistance
If you’re unsure about how to dial or connect to America, ask for assistance from a local resident or hotel staff. They can provide guidance and help you avoid any potential issues.
10. Use a Comparison tool
Consider using online or mobile app comparison tools that allow you to compare the costs of different calling methods. These tools can help you find the most cost-effective option for your specific needs.
How To Call America From Switzerland
To call America from Switzerland, you can use a landline, a mobile phone, or a VoIP service. If you’re using a landline or a mobile phone, you’ll need to dial the international access code for Switzerland, which is 00. Once you have dialed the international access code, you’ll need to dial the country code for the United States, which is 1. Finally, you’ll need to dial the area code and the phone number of the person you’re calling.
If you’re using a VoIP service, you’ll need to create an account with the service and then download the software to your computer or mobile device. Once you have created an account, you’ll be able to make calls to the United States by dialing the number you want to call. VoIP services typically offer lower rates than traditional phone service, but they may not always be as reliable.
