How to Call Belgium
Complete guide to dialing Belgium (country code +32)
Planning to make a phone call to Belgium? Whether you're contacting family, friends, or business associates, understanding the proper dialing process is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to call Belgium from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, including country codes and area codes, so you can connect successfully on your first attempt. You'll also learn about common mistakes people make when calling Belgium and how to avoid them. We've included important information about Belgian phone etiquette to help you make a great impression, plus a list of useful emergency and service numbers you might need during your stay or communication with Belgium.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Belgium from abroad, follow this format: Exit Code + 32 + Local Number (without leading 0)
Belgium's country code is +32. When dialing internationally, always remove the leading zero from Belgian phone numbers.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
Step 1: Dial your country's exit code (also called IDD code)
Step 2: Dial 32 (Belgium's country code)
Step 3: Dial the local number WITHOUT the leading zero
Dialing from Different Countries
From USA or Canada: Use exit code 011
- Format: 011-32-XX-XXX-XXXX
From UK: Use exit code 00
- Format: 00-32-XX-XXX-XXXX
From other countries: Most use 00 as the exit code, but verify your specific location.
Specific Examples
Example 1 - Brussels Landline (02 XXX XX XX):
- From USA: 011-32-2-XXX-XX-XX
- From UK: 00-32-2-XXX-XX-XX
- Note: Drop the leading 0 from "02"
Example 2 - Antwerp Landline (03 XXX XX XX):
- From USA: 011-32-3-XXX-XX-XX
- From UK: 00-32-3-XXX-XX-XX
Example 3 - Belgian Mobile Number (04XX XX XX XX):
- From USA: 011-32-4XX-XX-XX-XX
- From UK: 00-32-4XX-XX-XX-XX
- Mobile numbers start with 4 after removing the leading 0
Important Tips
Belgian landlines have area codes: Brussels (2), Antwerp (3), Ghent (9), Liège (4). Mobile numbers start with 4XX when the leading zero is removed.
When saving Belgian contacts internationally, use the +32 format instead of 0032, as the plus sign automatically applies the correct exit code regardless of your calling location. This universal format works from any country: +32-X-XXX-XX-XX.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Belgium, avoid these common mistakes:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Belgian phone numbers start with 0 when dialing domestically, but you must remove this zero when calling internationally. For example, a Brussels number 02 123 4567 becomes +32 2 123 4567, not +32 02 123 4567.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Different countries have different exit codes (011 for USA/Canada, 00 for most European countries). Instead of memorizing these, use the + symbol, which works universally from mobile phones by holding the 0 key.
3. Confusing the country code with area codes
Belgium's country code is +32, not to be confused with area codes like 2 (Brussels) or 3 (Antwerp). Always dial +32 first, then the area code without the leading zero.
4. Incorrectly formatting mobile numbers
Belgian mobile numbers start with 4 (like 0475 or 0496). When calling internationally, dial +32 475 or +32 496, removing the initial zero just like landlines.
5. Adding unnecessary spaces or characters
While spaces improve readability, avoid adding hyphens or brackets that might confuse automated systems.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Belgium, understanding local customs helps create positive impressions and smoother conversations.
Greetings matter significantly. Always begin calls by identifying yourself, even with people you know. Say "Bonjour" or "Guten Tag" for French or German speakers, and "Hallo" for Dutch speakers. In business contexts, use formal titles and surnames unless invited to do otherwise.
Distinguish between business and personal calls. Business calls should remain professional and structured. Get to the point relatively quickly after brief pleasantries. Personal calls allow more flexibility, but Belgians generally appreciate purposeful conversations rather than lengthy small talk.
Timing is important. Avoid calling during lunch hours (typically noon to 1:30 PM) or after 9 PM for personal calls. Business calls work best between 9 AM and 5 PM on weekdays. Never call on Sundays unless it's urgent or pre-arranged.
Formality varies by language region. French-speaking Walloons tend toward more formal communication, while Dutch-speaking Flemish may be slightly more direct. Regardless, start formal and let the other person set a casual tone if appropriate.
Voice messages should be clear and concise. State your name, number, reason for calling, and when you're available. Belgians appreciate organization and dislike vague messages.
Language consideration is crucial. If unsure which language to use, politely ask at the call's beginning. Most Belgians speak multiple languages and will accommodate you respectfully.
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Emergency Numbers
112 - General European Emergency Number
Available 24/7 for police, ambulance, and fire services. English-speaking operators available.
101 - Police (Non-Emergency)
For reporting crimes or incidents that don't require immediate assistance.
100 - Ambulance and Fire Services
Direct line for medical emergencies and fire department.
1733 - Child Focus
Hotline for missing and sexually exploited children.
1712 - Social Emergency Services
Support for vulnerable individuals facing abuse or distress.
All emergency numbers work from mobile phones, landlines, and phone booths throughout Belgium, and calls are completely free of charge. The 112 number is recommended for tourists as it connects to multilingual operators who can quickly dispatch appropriate emergency services. Services operate 24/7 year-round across all regions of Belgium.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 1405: General directory assistance for finding phone numbers in Belgium
- 1307: International directory assistance for numbers abroad
International Calls
- 1324: International operator for assisted calls worldwide
Tourist Information
- Visit Belgium helpline: +32 2 504 03 90 (tourism inquiries and travel assistance)
Embassy Contacts
- U.S. Embassy Brussels: +32 2 811 4000
- UK Embassy Brussels: +32 2 287 6211
- Canadian Embassy: +32 2 741 0611
Other Useful Services
- 1733: Non-urgent medical helpline (doctor-on-call)
- Child Focus: 116 000 (missing children hotline)
- Poison Control: +32 70 245 245
- Railway information (SNCB): 02 528 28 28
Keep important numbers saved in your phone for quick access during your stay.
Tips for Calling Belgium
When calling Belgium, keep in mind the country operates on Central European Time (CET, UTC+1) or Central European Summer Time (CEST, UTC+2 from late March to late October). To catch people during business hours, call between 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM Belgian time, Monday through Friday.
For international calls, schedule business conversations in advance—Belgians appreciate punctuality and planning. Avoid calling during lunch hours (12:00-2:00 PM) when many offices close. Morning calls (9:00-11:00 AM) typically work best for clear communication when energy levels are high.
Be mindful of Belgian public holidays, including New Year's Day, Easter Monday, Labour Day (May 1), Ascension Day, Whit Monday, Belgian National Day (July 21), Assumption Day (August 15), All Saints' Day (November 1), Armistice Day (November 11), and Christmas. Many businesses also close during summer vacation weeks in July and August.
For off-peak rates, call during evenings or weekends, though this suits personal calls only. Belgium has three official languages—Dutch, French, and German—so confirm your contact's preferred language beforehand. Speaking clearly and allowing extra time for potential language barriers ensures productive conversations.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for calling Belgium is +32. When making international calls to Belgium, you must dial this code before the local phone number. Start with your country's international access code (like 011 from the US), then add 32 followed by the Belgian phone number without the leading zero.
When calling Belgium from a cell phone, press and hold the '0' key to insert the '+' symbol, then dial 32 (Belgium's country code), followed by the area code without the leading zero, and the local number. For example, to reach a Brussels number: +32 2 XXX XXXX.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from Belgian area codes when calling Belgium internationally. For instance, Brussels's area code is 02 locally, but when dialing from abroad, you use +32 2. The zero is only used for domestic calls within Belgium.
The cheapest way to call Belgium is using internet-based services like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime over WiFi. Alternatively, international calling cards, VoIP services, or specialized apps like ZippCall offer affordable rates for calling Belgium.
When calling Belgium's emergency services, dial 112 for general emergencies (police, fire, ambulance), 101 for medical emergencies, or 100 for fire and ambulance. These numbers work from any phone without needing the country code and can be dialed free of charge, even without credit.
Belgium operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1, or UTC+2 during daylight saving time. When calling Belgium, consider this timing to avoid calling too early or late. Belgium is typically 6 hours ahead of US Eastern Time and 1 hour ahead of the UK.
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