How to Call Hong Kong
Complete guide to dialing Hong Kong (country code +852)
Whether you're planning a business call or connecting with family and friends, knowing how to call Hong Kong properly can save you time, money, and frustration. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need for calling Hong Kong successfully from anywhere in the world. We'll cover the essential dialing instructions, including country codes and area codes, so you can place your call with confidence. You'll also learn about the most common mistakes people make when dialing Hong Kong and how to avoid them. We've included important information about phone etiquette to help you make a great impression, plus a handy list of useful numbers for emergencies, customer service, and essential services. By the end of this guide, you'll be ready to connect with Hong Kong effortlessly.
On This Page
Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
How to Dial Hong Kong: Complete International Calling Guide
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Hong Kong from abroad, follow this format: Exit Code + 852 + Local Phone Number. Hong Kong uses country code +852, and notably, there are no area codes within Hong Kong, making the dialing process straightforward.
Understanding Local Numbers
Hong Kong phone numbers are 8 digits long. Landlines typically start with 2 or 3, while mobile numbers begin with 5, 6, 7, or 9. Unlike many countries, Hong Kong numbers don't have a leading zero to drop when dialing internationally.
Dialing from the USA
The US exit code is 011. Follow these steps:
- Dial 011 (US exit code)
- Dial 852 (Hong Kong country code)
- Dial the 8-digit local number
Example 1: To call Hong Kong mobile 9123 4567 from USA:
011-852-9123-4567
Example 2: To call Hong Kong landline 2891 2345 from USA:
011-852-2891-2345
Dialing from the UK
The UK uses 00 as its exit code:
Example 3: To call Hong Kong mobile 6234 5678 from UK:
00-852-6234-5678
Dialing from Other Countries
Most countries use 00 as the exit code, but some differ:
- Australia, Canada: Use 0011
- Japan, South Korea: Use 001 (or alternatives)
- From mobile phones: Replace exit codes with + symbol
Example 4: From any mobile phone to Hong Kong number 3456 7890:
+852-3456-7890
Quick Tips
- No leading zero exists in Hong Kong numbers, so nothing needs dropping
- All Hong Kong numbers are 8 digits—no more, no less
- The + symbol works universally from mobile phones
- Check your carrier's international rates before calling
- Consider VoIP services like WhatsApp or Skype for cost-effective alternatives
Following these simple steps ensures successful connection to any Hong Kong number from anywhere worldwide.
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 "Hong Kong" 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 7,765 users who choose ZippCall for simple international calling.
Common Mistakes
When calling Hong Kong, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Adding a leading zero after the country code
Hong Kong phone numbers don't use a leading zero when dialing internationally. Simply dial +852 followed by the 8-digit local number. For example: +852 1234 5678, not +852 0 1234 5678.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many callers forget that the exit code varies by country. If not using the + symbol, dial your country's exit code first (011 from the US, 00 from most European countries) before 852.
3. Looking for area codes
Unlike mainland China, Hong Kong has no area codes. All local numbers are 8 digits, making the process simpler once you understand this structure.
4. Confusing old numbering formats
Before 1995, Hong Kong used 7-digit numbers. Ensure you have the current 8-digit format to avoid connection failures.
5. Dialing at inappropriate times
Hong Kong operates on GMT+8 with no daylight saving time. Check the time difference to avoid calling during late-night hours.
Cultural Etiquette
In Hong Kong, phone etiquette blends traditional Chinese courtesy with modern international business practices. Understanding these customs helps build stronger relationships.
When answering calls, begin with "Wei?" (hello) for personal calls or state your company name for business calls. In professional settings, always use formal titles like "Mr." or "Ms." followed by the surname until invited to be more casual. Business calls maintain formality throughout, while personal calls among friends adopt a relaxed, friendly tone.
Timing matters significantly. Avoid calling before 9 AM or after 9 PM for personal matters. Business calls should occur between 9 AM and 6 PM on weekdays. Lunch hour (1-2 PM) is generally respected as downtime, though less strictly than in mainland China.
Voice messages are commonly used and expected in Hong Kong. If someone misses your call, leave a brief, clear message stating your name, purpose, and contact information. Many Hong Kongers prefer text messages or WhatsApp for non-urgent matters, so don't be surprised if responses come via text rather than callback.
Speaking clearly and at moderate volume shows respect—avoid shouting or speaking too softly. Cantonese is the primary language, though English is widely understood in business contexts. If you're unsure which language to use, starting in English is generally acceptable.
Remember that Hong Kongers value efficiency and directness in communication while maintaining politeness, creating a unique balance between Eastern respect and Western directness.
Ready to call Hong Kong?
ZippCall lets you make cheap international calls to Hong Kong from any device. No contracts, no hidden fees—just simple pay-as-you-go rates.
Join 7,765 users making affordable international calls with ZippCall.
Emergency Numbers
999 – Universal Emergency Number
Connects you to police, fire, or ambulance services. English and Cantonese-speaking operators available 24/7.
112 – Mobile Emergency Number
Alternative emergency number that works on all mobile phones, even without network coverage or SIM cards.
2508 1234 – Police Hotline (non-emergency)
For reporting non-urgent matters requiring police assistance.
1878 000 – Government Hotline
General inquiries and non-emergency government services.
All emergency calls (999 and 112) are completely free from any phone, including mobile phones, landlines, and payphones. Both numbers operate 24/7 with multilingual support. When calling, clearly state whether you need police, fire, or ambulance services, and provide your location and nature of the emergency. Emergency operators can dispatch multiple services simultaneously if needed.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 1081: Local directory assistance for finding phone numbers and addresses
- 10013: International directory assistance for overseas numbers
Operators & Communication
- 10010: International operator for assisted overseas calls
Tourist Services
- 2508 1234: Hong Kong Tourism Board hotline for visitor information, attractions, and travel assistance
Consular Support
- Contact your embassy or consulate for passport issues, legal assistance, and citizen services. Major embassies maintain 24-hour emergency lines.
Transportation
- 2745 4466: Airport Express customer service
- 2881 8888: MTR hotline for rail services
Utilities & Services
- 1823: Government general enquiries and complaints hotline
- 2881 3344: CLP Power customer service
- 2887 3455: HK Electric customer service
Consumer Protection
- 2929 2222: Consumer Council advice line for complaints and disputes
Tips for Calling Hong Kong
When calling Hong Kong (UTC+8), timing is crucial for successful connections. The best windows are 9 AM-12 PM and 2 PM-5 PM Hong Kong time, which aligns with their standard business hours of 9 AM-6 PM, Monday through Friday.
For international callers, calculate the time difference carefully: Hong Kong is 13 hours ahead of US Eastern Time and 8 hours ahead of London. Schedule business calls in advance via email to confirm availability and demonstrate professionalism.
Avoid calling during major holidays including Chinese New Year (late January/February), which can span several days with closures, plus Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and National Day (October 1). Weekends see limited business availability.
Peak rates typically apply during Hong Kong business hours, while off-peak calling (evenings and weekends) offers cost savings for personal calls. Consider using VoIP services to reduce expenses.
For clear communication, speak slowly and avoid idioms—English is widely spoken but clarity matters. Have key points written down, confirm details via follow-up email, and be mindful that direct communication styles work best in Hong Kong's efficient business culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Hong Kong is +852. You'll need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Hong Kong from anywhere in the world.
To call Hong Kong from your cell phone, dial + (or 011 from the US), then 852 (Hong Kong's country code), followed by the 8-digit local phone number. For example: +852-1234-5678.
Hong Kong phone numbers don't start with a zero, so there's nothing to drop. Simply dial +852 followed by the 8-digit local number. All Hong Kong numbers are 8 digits with no area codes.
The cheapest way to call Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong.
In Hong Kong, dial 999 for all emergency services including police, fire, and ambulance. This number is free to call from any phone and connects you to emergency operators who can dispatch the appropriate services.
Yes! ZippCall allows you to make calls to Hong Kong directly from your web browser. Simply visit the ZippCall website, add credit to your account, and start calling—no downloads or special equipment required.
Start Calling Hong Kong Today
Now that you know how to dial, make cheap calls to Hong Kong with ZippCall's crystal-clear connections and unbeatable rates.
Join7,765users who have made11,914minutes of calls in the last 7 days.
View rates for calling Hong Kong