How to Call Finland
Complete guide to dialing Finland (country code +358)
Planning to connect with someone in the Nordic region? Learning how to call Finland is simpler than you might think. Whether you're reaching out to family, conducting business, or coordinating travel plans, making international calls to Finland requires knowing the right dialing codes and procedures. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need for calling Finland successfully, including step-by-step dialing instructions from various countries, common mistakes that could prevent your call from connecting, and essential Finnish phone etiquette to help you make a great impression. We'll also share useful emergency numbers and important contacts you might need during your stay or while communicating with Finnish residents. By the end, you'll feel confident making crystal-clear calls to Finland every time.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Finland from abroad, you need three components: your country's international access code (exit code), Finland's country code (+358), and the local Finnish number without its leading zero.
Basic Format: [Exit Code] + 358 + [Local Number without 0]
How to Dial from Different Countries
From USA or Canada:
Use exit code 011
- Format: 011-358-XX-XXXX-XXXX
From UK or most European countries:
Use exit code 00
- Format: 00-358-XX-XXXX-XXXX
From other countries:
Check your country's international access code (commonly 00 or 011)
Detailed Examples with Different Number Types
Example 1 - Finnish Mobile Number (starts with 04):
Local format: 040 123 4567
- From USA: 011-358-40-123-4567
- From UK: 00-358-40-123-4567
- Note: Drop the leading 0, making it 40 instead of 040
Example 2 - Helsinki Landline (area code 09):
Local format: 09 1234 5678
- From USA: 011-358-9-1234-5678
- From UK: 00-358-9-1234-5678
- Note: The 0 is dropped, leaving just 9
Example 3 - Tampere Landline (area code 03):
Local format: 03 1234 5678
- From USA: 011-358-3-1234-5678
- From UK: 00-358-3-1234-5678
Important Rule: Dropping the Leading Zero
Finnish numbers always begin with 0 when dialed domestically. When calling internationally, always remove this first zero. This is crucial—keeping the zero will result in a failed connection.
Quick Steps
- Dial your country's exit code (011 for USA/Canada, 00 for Europe)
- Dial Finland's country code: 358
- Drop the leading 0 from the Finnish number
- Dial the remaining digits
Finnish mobile numbers typically start with 04 or 05, while landline area codes vary by region (Helsinki 09, Turku 02, Tampere 03).
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Common Mistakes
When calling Finland, avoid these common errors that can prevent your call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero - Finnish phone numbers often appear as 040 123 4567 locally, but when calling internationally, you must remove the initial zero. Dial +358 40 123 4567 instead.
Using the wrong exit code - Many people dial "00" out of habit, but this only works in certain countries. From the US and Canada, use "011" before the country code, or simply use "+" which works universally from mobile phones.
Confusing the country code with area codes - Some callers mistakenly dial +358 9 (Helsinki's code) thinking it's necessary for all Finnish numbers. Mobile numbers don't use area codes—just dial +358 followed by the mobile number without the zero.
Including unnecessary spaces or dashes - While spaces help readability, adding them incorrectly or including dashes where they don't belong can cause dialing errors on some phone systems. Follow the format: +358 XX XXX XXXX consistently.
Not accounting for time differences - Finland is EET/EEST (UTC+2/+3), so verify the local time before calling to avoid disturbing recipients during late hours.
Cultural Etiquette
Finnish phone etiquette reflects the culture's preference for directness, brevity, and respect for personal time. Understanding these customs helps ensure smooth communication whether you're calling for business or personal reasons.
When answering calls, Finns typically state their first and last name immediately, such as "Matti Virtanen." This direct approach replaces lengthy greetings. In business contexts, maintain a professional tone and get to the point quickly—Finns appreciate efficiency and dislike small talk on calls.
The best times to call are between 9 AM and 8 PM on weekdays. Avoid calling during lunch hours (11 AM-1 PM) or late evenings. Weekend calls should be reserved for close friends or emergencies, as Finns value their private time.
Finnish communication tends toward formality initially. Use last names and polite forms until invited to be more casual. However, don't mistake brevity for rudeness—short responses simply reflect efficiency.
Voice messages should be concise and clear. State your name, reason for calling, and preferred callback time. Many Finns prefer text messages over voicemails, as they're easier to review quickly.
Important cultural considerations include silence tolerance—don't feel pressured to fill pauses in conversation. Finns are comfortable with quiet moments while thinking. Also, raising your voice is considered aggressive, so maintain a calm, even tone. Remember that punctuality applies to scheduled calls too; be ready at the agreed time.
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Emergency Numbers
112 – Universal Emergency Number
This single number connects you to police, ambulance, and fire services throughout Finland. Available 24/7 with English-speaking operators. Works from all phones, including mobile phones without a SIM card or credit.
10022 – Non-Emergency Police Line
For situations requiring police assistance but not immediately life-threatening. Available in Finnish and Swedish during business hours.
116117 – Medical Helpline
Non-emergency healthcare advice and guidance. Helps determine if immediate medical attention is needed.
All emergency calls to 112 are completely free from any phone, including payphones and mobile devices. The service operates year-round without interruption. When calling, clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency. SMS to 112 is also available for those with hearing or speech difficulties.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 118 - General directory assistance for finding phone numbers in Finland
- 020 202 - International directory assistance for numbers abroad
International Operator
- 020 2020 - For operator-assisted international calls
Tourist Information
- Visit Finland helpline: +358 29 5335 000 (weekdays)
Embassy Contacts
Contact your embassy through Helsinki switchboard: +358 9 (followed by specific embassy number). Check your country's embassy website for direct numbers.
Other Helpful Services
- 116 117 - Non-emergency medical advice hotline
- 0295 420 00 - Police non-emergency line
- Finnish Transport and Communications Agency: 0295 390 000 (consumer advice)
- Lost property (Helsinki): +358 9 310 22111
Keep these numbers saved for convenient access during your stay in Finland.
Tips for Calling Finland
When calling Finland, remember the country operates on Eastern European Time (UTC+2), moving to UTC+3 during daylight saving time from late March to late October. For international calls, aim for Finnish business hours: 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday. If you're calling from North America, this means early morning your time works best.
For business calls, always schedule appointments in advance. Finns value punctuality and planning, so impromptu calls may not receive the attention you need. Avoid calling during lunch hours (11 AM-1 PM) when possible.
Key dates to avoid include Midsummer Eve and Day (late June), Christmas season (December 24-26), and Easter holidays, when most businesses close entirely. Also respect Sundays and Independence Day (December 6).
For clear communication, speak slowly and clearly—most Finns speak excellent English but appreciate measured pacing. Mobile coverage in Finland is exceptional, so both landlines and cell phones work reliably. Consider using video calls for important business discussions, as Finns appreciate direct, face-to-face communication even when virtual. Finally, keep calls concise; Finnish business culture values efficiency and brevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Finland is +358. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when calling Finland from abroad. The plus sign (+) represents your country's international access code (011 in the US, 00 in most European countries).
To call Finland from your cell phone, dial + (or your country's exit code), then 358 (Finland's country code), followed by the local number without the leading zero. For example, to call a Helsinki number, dial +358 followed by the 9-digit local number.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero when calling Finland from abroad. Finnish phone numbers typically start with 0 when dialing domestically, but when calling internationally, replace that 0 with +358. For example, 040 123 4567 becomes +358 40 123 4567.
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The main emergency number in Finland is 112, which connects you to police, fire, and ambulance services. This number is free to call and works from any phone, including mobile phones without a SIM card. English-speaking operators are available for international callers.
Yes, you can call Finland directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Finnish phone number you want to call, and connect instantly—no downloads or special software required. It's convenient, affordable, and works on any device.
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