How to Call Chile
Complete guide to dialing Chile (country code +56)
Planning to connect with friends, family, or business contacts in South America? Learning how to call Chile doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're making your first international call or need a quick refresher, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about calling Chile from anywhere in the world. We'll cover the essential dialing codes and step-by-step instructions to ensure your call goes through smoothly. You'll also discover common mistakes to avoid that could cost you time and money, plus important tips on Chilean phone etiquette to help you make a great impression. We've also included a handy list of useful numbers for emergencies, customer service, and general inquiries. Let's get you connected to Chile with confidence.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format for Chile
To call Chile from anywhere in the world, you need to understand the basic international dialing structure: Exit Code + 56 (Chile Country Code) + Area Code + Local Number.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
1. Identify the Exit Code
- From USA/Canada: 011
- From UK: 00
- From most European countries: 00
- From mobile phones worldwide: + (press and hold 0)
2. Add Chile's Country Code
After the exit code, dial 56.
3. Remove the Leading Zero
Chilean numbers starting with 0 must have this digit dropped when dialing internationally. For example, if a local number shows as 02 XXXX XXXX, dial only 2 XXXX XXXX.
Practical Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Santiago Landline from USA:
Local format: 02 2XXX XXXX
Dial: 011-56-2-2XXX-XXXX
Example 2 - Chilean Mobile Number from UK:
Local format: 09 XXXX XXXX
Dial: 00-56-9-XXXX-XXXX
(Note: Drop the leading 0, so 09 becomes 9)
Example 3 - Valparaíso Landline from Australia:
Local format: 032 XXX XXXX
Dial: 0011-56-32-XXX-XXXX
Area Codes Reference
- Santiago: 2
- Valparaíso: 32
- Concepción: 41
- Mobile phones: 9
Quick Reference by Country
From USA: 011-56-[area code]-[local number]
From UK: 00-56-[area code]-[local number]
From Germany: 00-56-[area code]-[local number]
From any mobile: +56-[area code]-[local number]
Important Tips
Always drop the trunk prefix (0) that appears before Chilean area codes when dialing internationally. Chilean mobile numbers always start with 9 after removing the leading zero. For the most convenient dialing experience from mobile devices, use the + symbol instead of your country's exit code—this works universally across all countries.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Chile, people frequently make these avoidable mistakes:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero from the local number. Chilean phone numbers often display with a leading 0 (like 02 for Santiago), but you must remove this zero when dialing internationally. Dial +56 2 XXXX XXXX, not +56 02 XXXX XXXX.
2. Using the wrong exit code instead of +. Many dialers use their country's exit code (011 from the US, 00 from Europe) but enter it incorrectly. The "+" symbol automatically represents the correct exit code, so always use +56 when possible.
3. Confusing the country code with the area code. Chile's country code is 56, not to be confused with Santiago's area code (2) or other regional codes. The complete format is: +56 [area code] [local number].
4. Including spaces incorrectly or not at all. While spaces don't affect connection, proper formatting helps avoid errors. Use: +56 2 XXXX XXXX for landlines or +56 9 XXXX XXXX for mobile numbers.
5. Not accounting for Chile's time zone. Chile operates on CLT (UTC-3/-4), so verify appropriate calling hours to avoid inconveniencing recipients.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Chile, understanding local customs helps create positive connections and demonstrates cultural respect.
Greetings matter significantly. Start calls with "Aló" (hello) followed by identifying yourself. In business contexts, use formal titles like "Señor" or "Señora" with last names until invited to use first names. Personal calls allow more casual greetings among friends and family.
Timing your calls appropriately is essential. Avoid calling during lunch hours (1-3 PM) when many Chileans take extended breaks. For business calls, stick to 9 AM-1 PM or 3-6 PM on weekdays. Personal calls are generally acceptable until 9 PM, though close friends may call later.
Formality depends on relationship and context. Business calls require professional language and courtesy, while personal calls become relaxed quickly. Chileans appreciate warmth, so don't be surprised by friendly conversation before getting to business matters.
Voice messages are commonly used and expected. If someone doesn't answer, leaving a clear message is appreciated. State your name, reason for calling, and contact information. Many Chileans prefer WhatsApp voice messages over traditional voicemail.
Cultural considerations include patience with conversation style. Chileans often engage in brief pleasantries before discussing main topics—rushing immediately to business can seem abrupt. Speaking clearly matters since phone quality may vary, and showing genuine interest in the person builds rapport that facilitates successful communication.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers for Chile:
- Police (Carabineros): 133
- Ambulance (SAMU): 131
- Fire Department (Bomberos): 132
- General Emergency Number: 911
- Investigation Police (PDI): 134
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from mobile phones, landlines, and public phones throughout Chile. The 911 number connects you to all emergency services and operates 24/7. English-speaking operators may be limited, so basic Spanish phrases are helpful. Fire services in Chile are largely volunteer-based but highly professional. For tourists, your embassy contact information should be kept handy. Cell phone networks prioritize emergency calls even with low signal. Response times vary significantly between urban and rural areas, with Santiago and major cities having faster service.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 103: National directory assistance for finding phone numbers and addresses throughout Chile
- 181: International directory assistance for numbers outside Chile
International Operator
- 123: International operator assistance for placing calls abroad or getting help with international connections
Tourist Services
- 600 600 6016: Sernatur tourist information hotline (toll-free) for travel guidance, attractions, and general tourist inquiries
Embassy Contacts
- Contact your embassy before traveling for their 24-hour emergency number
- U.S. Embassy Santiago: +56 2 2330 3000
- British Embassy Santiago: +56 2 2370 4100
- Canadian Embassy Santiago: +56 2 2652 3800
Other Helpful Services
- 600 360 7777: Consumer protection hotline (SERNAC)
- 147: Government information and complaints
- *611: Cell phone customer service (from your mobile)
Tips for Calling Chile
When calling Chile, keep in mind the country operates on UTC-3 (or UTC-4 during winter months, April-September). To catch Chileans during business hours, call between 9 AM and 6 PM local time. If you're on the U.S. East Coast, that's typically a one to two-hour time difference.
For business calls, always schedule appointments in advance—Chileans appreciate punctuality and planning. Standard business hours are Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM, with lunch breaks between 1-3 PM. Avoid calling during these midday hours for better responsiveness.
Steer clear of Chilean public holidays including Independence Day (September 18-19), New Year's, and Christmas. The summer vacation period (January-February) often sees reduced business activity.
For international rates, call during off-peak hours—typically evenings and weekends—though this may conflict with Chilean business schedules. Consider using VoIP services like WhatsApp or Skype to reduce costs.
Communication tips: speak clearly and slightly slower than usual, as English proficiency varies. Having a Spanish speaker available helps tremendously. Always confirm important details via email afterward to prevent misunderstandings.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Chile is +56. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Chile from anywhere in the world. It identifies Chile within the global telephone numbering system.
To dial Chile from your cell phone, start with + (or 011 in the US), then dial 56 (Chile's country code), followed by the area code and local number. For example: +56 2 XXXX XXXX for Santiago landlines, or +56 9 XXXX XXXX for mobile numbers.
Yes, you should drop the leading zero from Chilean phone numbers when calling internationally. If a local number is displayed as 02 XXXX XXXX, dial +56 2 XXXX XXXX instead. The zero is only used for domestic calls within Chile.
The cheapest way to call Chile 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 Chile.
In Chile, the main emergency numbers are: 131 for ambulance services, 132 for fire department, and 133 for police (Carabineros). For general emergencies, you can also dial 911, which connects to all emergency services throughout the country.
Yes, you can easily call Chile directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Chilean phone number you want to reach, and start calling—no downloads or special software required. It's convenient and works on any device.
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