How to Call Canada
Complete guide to dialing Canada (country code +1)
Calling Canada from another country doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're connecting with family, friends, or business contacts, understanding the proper dialing process ensures your call goes through smoothly every time. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to call Canada, from step-by-step dialing instructions to essential tips that make international calling hassle-free. We'll cover the most common mistakes people make when calling Canada, proper phone etiquette to follow during your conversations, and provide a list of useful numbers you might need. By the end of this guide, you'll feel confident making calls to any Canadian phone number, whether it's a mobile or landline, and you'll save time and money in the process.
On This Page
Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
How to Dial Canada: Complete International Calling Guide
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Canada from anywhere in the world, use this format:
Exit Code + 1 + Area Code + Local Number
Canada shares country code +1 with the United States and uses 10-digit phone numbers (3-digit area code + 7-digit local number).
Dialing from Different Countries
From the United States
Since the USA shares the +1 country code with Canada, dialing is straightforward:
Dial: 1 + Area Code + Local Number
Example: To call a Toronto number (416-555-1234), dial 1-416-555-1234
From the United Kingdom
UK's exit code is 00:
Dial: 00 + 1 + Area Code + Local Number
Example: To call a Vancouver landline (604-555-6789), dial 00-1-604-555-6789
From Other Countries
Replace the exit code with your country's specific code (commonly 00 or 011):
Dial: Exit Code + 1 + Area Code + Local Number
Example: From Australia (exit code 0011) calling a Montreal mobile (514-555-4321), dial 0011-1-514-555-4321
Specific Calling Examples
1. Toronto Landline (416-555-1234):
- From USA: 1-416-555-1234
- From UK: 00-1-416-555-1234
- From Germany: 00-1-416-555-1234
2. Vancouver Mobile (778-555-9876):
- From USA: 1-778-555-9876
- From UK: 00-1-778-555-9876
- From Mexico: 00-1-778-555-9876
3. Calgary Landline (403-555-2468):
- From USA: 1-403-555-2468
- From UK: 00-1-403-555-2468
- From Japan: 010-1-403-555-2468
Important Note About Leading Zeros
Canadian phone numbers do not use leading zeros. Always dial the complete 10-digit number exactly as shown. Unlike some countries where you drop a leading zero for international calls, Canadian numbers remain unchanged regardless of where you're calling from.
The Easy Way with ZippCall
Don't want to memorize exit codes, country codes, and dialing formats? With ZippCall, you don't have to.
Simply select "Canada" from the country list, enter the local phone number exactly as you see it, and ZippCall automatically handles all the international dialing codes for you. No confusion, no mistakes—just easy calling.
Join 6,090 users who choose ZippCall for simple international calling.
Common Mistakes
When calling Canada, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Confusing the country code with the area code
Canada shares the +1 country code with the United States. Many callers forget to add the three-digit area code after dialing +1. Always dial: +1 + area code + seven-digit number.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Different countries use different exit codes (011 from the US, 00 from Europe). Instead of memorizing exit codes, use the + symbol, which works universally from mobile phones by holding the 0 key.
3. Including a leading zero or 1
Some countries require a leading zero for domestic calls. When calling Canada internationally, never add a zero before the area code. The format is simply +1-XXX-XXX-XXXX.
4. Forgetting to check the area code
Canada has numerous area codes across its provinces. Verify the correct area code for your destination city, as using an incorrect one will route your call elsewhere.
5. Ignoring time zones
Canada spans six time zones. Check the local time before calling to avoid contacting someone at an inconvenient hour.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Canada, politeness and respect for personal time are highly valued. Canadians typically answer with a simple "Hello" or identify themselves by name, especially in business contexts.
Business calls require a more formal approach. Always introduce yourself clearly, state your purpose, and ask if it's a convenient time to talk. Business hours are generally 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday. Avoid calling outside these hours unless it's urgent or pre-arranged.
Personal calls can be more casual but still respect boundaries. The best times are typically between 9 AM and 9 PM. Calling too early in the morning or late at night is considered intrusive.
Tone and formality depend on your relationship. Start formal with new contacts and become more casual as relationships develop. Canadians appreciate friendly professionalism and often use polite phrases like "please," "thank you," and "I appreciate your time."
Voice messages should be brief and clear. State your name, number, reason for calling, and when you'll be available. Canadians generally return calls within one business day.
Cultural considerations include Canada's bilingual nature—you may encounter French greetings like "Bonjour" in Quebec and some federal services. Canadians value punctuality, so if you schedule a phone call, be on time. They also tend to be indirect communicators who avoid aggressive sales tactics or confrontational tones. Respect for personal space extends to phone communication, so avoid being overly persistent if someone doesn't answer.
Ready to call Canada?
ZippCall lets you make cheap international calls to Canada from any device. No contracts, no hidden fees—just simple pay-as-you-go rates.
Join 6,090 users making affordable international calls with ZippCall.
Emergency Numbers
911 - This is Canada's primary emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire department services. It operates 24/7 across all provinces and territories with operators available in English and French.
Mobile phones: 911 works from all mobile phones, including devices without active service plans, and all calls are completely free.
Additional emergency contacts:
- 112 - Alternative emergency number that redirects to 911 (works on most mobile phones)
- #RCMP (#7267) - Royal Canadian Mounted Police non-emergency line in certain areas
- Provincial poison control centers - Numbers vary by province
Important notes: Text-to-911 service is available in many regions for those with hearing or speech difficulties. When calling 911, clearly state your location and the nature of your emergency. Service is available in multiple languages through translation services.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance: Dial 411 for local directory information or 1-800-555-1212 for toll-free numbers across Canada.
International Operator: Call 0 for operator assistance with international calls, collect calls, or billing inquiries.
Canada Tourism Information: Contact Destination Canada at 1-888-773-8888 for travel advice, attractions, and provincial tourism offices.
U.S. Embassy (Ottawa): 613-238-5335 for American citizens requiring consular assistance.
Telehealth Services: Most provinces offer 811 for non-emergency health advice from registered nurses.
Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: 1-888-495-8501 to report fraud or scams.
Weather Information: Call Environment Canada's Weatheradio at local numbers for automated forecasts.
Roadside Assistance: CAA (Canadian Automobile Association) at 1-800-222-4357 for members.
Service Canada: 1-800-622-6232 for government services, benefits, and passport inquiries.
Tips for Calling Canada
When calling Canada, timing is crucial for successful connections. Canada spans six time zones, from Newfoundland (UTC-3:30) to Pacific (UTC-8), so verify your recipient's specific zone before dialing.
For business calls, aim for 9 AM to 5 PM local time, Tuesday through Thursday—these mid-week days typically see better availability. Avoid Mondays when people catch up on emails, and Friday afternoons when attention wanes. Always schedule important business calls in advance, confirming the time zone in your invitation.
Off-peak calling (evenings and weekends) often offers better rates if cost is a concern, though mobile plans have largely eliminated this advantage.
Avoid calling on major Canadian holidays: New Year's Day, Good Friday, Canada Day (July 1), Labour Day, Thanksgiving (second Monday in October), and Christmas. Family Day and other provincial holidays vary by region.
For clear communication, speak slowly and confirm understanding, especially if English or French isn't your first language. Test your connection quality beforehand, minimize background noise, and have a backup number ready. When leaving voicemails, always include your callback number twice—once at the beginning and once at the end.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Canada is +1, which is shared with the United States and several Caribbean nations. To call Canada from abroad, dial + (or your international access code), then 1, followed by the 10-digit Canadian phone number (area code + local number).
To call Canada from your cell phone, dial + (press and hold 0 on most phones), then 1 (Canada's country code), followed by the 3-digit area code and 7-digit local number. For example: +1-416-XXX-XXXX for a Toronto number.
No, Canadian phone numbers don't begin with zero. Canada uses 10-digit numbering with a 3-digit area code and 7-digit local number. Simply dial +1 followed by the complete 10-digit number exactly as provided, with no digits removed.
The cheapest way to call Canada is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Canada.
The primary emergency number in Canada is 911, which connects you to police, fire, and ambulance services nationwide. This number works from any phone, including cell phones, even without an active service plan. Always call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
Yes, you can call Canada directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Canadian phone number you wish to call, and connect instantly—no downloads or special software required, making international calling simple and convenient.
Start Calling Canada Today
Now that you know how to dial, make cheap calls to Canada with ZippCall's crystal-clear connections and unbeatable rates.
Join6,090users who have made17,279minutes of calls in the last 7 days.
View rates for calling Canada