Calling Codes for the Netherlands: A Quick Guide

Making an international phone call can seem daunting, especially if you are unfamiliar with the dialing process of a particular country. This guide provides essential information on how to call the Netherlands from abroad, including the necessary codes and formats to ensure your call connects smoothly.

How to Call the Netherlands

To initiate a call to the Netherlands from another country, you'll need to follow a specific format that includes an international access code, country code, area code, and the local phone number. Below are the steps:

1. International Access Code: Dial the exit code for your country. For example, in the US, it is typically 011.

2. Country Code: Dial the country code for the Netherlands, which is +31.

3. Area Code: Dial the area code for the specific city or region in the Netherlands (for instance, Amsterdam's area code is 20).

4. Local Phone Number: Dial the local number without the leading zero.

Complete Dialing Format

- International Access Code: 011

- Country Code: +31

- Area Code: (e.g., 20 for Amsterdam)

- Local Phone Number: (remaining digits of the phone number)

Example: To call a number in Amsterdam:

- Dial: 011 + 31 + 20 + local phone number.

Common Area Codes in the Netherlands

Below are some of the major area codes in the Netherlands along with their corresponding cities:

FAQs about Calling the Netherlands

Why didn’t my call to the Netherlands go through?

There could be several reasons for a failed call:

- You may have forgotten to dial your country’s exit code.

- The area code you dialed might be incorrect.

- You could be trying to reach a mobile number that does not accept international calls.

- The country code +31 was not included before the number.

Are there special numbers in the Netherlands?

Yes, toll-free numbers in the Netherlands start with +31-000, which you can dial without incurring charges in the Netherlands.

Do phone numbers in the Netherlands typically have voicemail?

Most phone numbers in the Netherlands, especially mobile numbers, come with voicemail services. Users can set personalized greetings for their callers.

What does the ringing tone sound like when you call the Netherlands?

When calling the Netherlands, you can expect to hear:

- Dial tone: A standard tone indicating that the line is ready for dialing.

- Busy signal: A repetitive beep indicating that the line you are trying to reach is busy.

- Unobtainable message: A notification indicating that the number cannot be connected.

Can I use prepaid international calling cards?

Yes, prepaid international calling cards are widely available and can offer more affordable rates for calling the Netherlands from abroad.

What should I do if I frequently call the Netherlands?

If you find yourself calling the Netherlands often, consider using online communication platforms like WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber, which can be more cost-effective alternatives to traditional phone calls.

Conclusion

Making a call to the Netherlands is straightforward once you know the correct dialing format. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can connect with friends, family, or business contacts in the Netherlands without hassle. Remember to take note of the area codes and always include the country code to ensure your call goes through. Happy calling!