How to Call Macedonia
Complete guide to dialing Macedonia (country code +389)
Planning to connect with someone in Macedonia? Whether you're calling for business, reaching out to family, or making travel arrangements, understanding the proper dialing procedure ensures your call goes through smoothly. This comprehensive guide on how to call Macedonia will walk you through everything you need to know about calling Macedonia from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, including country codes and area codes, highlight common mistakes to avoid that could prevent your call from connecting, explain local phone etiquette to help you make a great impression, and provide a list of useful emergency and service numbers. By the end of this guide, you'll have all the information needed to confidently place calls to Macedonia without any hassle.
On This Page
Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
How to Dial Macedonia: Complete International Calling Guide
Calling North Macedonia requires understanding the international dialing format and country-specific number structures. Follow these instructions to successfully connect your calls.
International Dialing Format Structure
The standard format for calling Macedonia is:
Exit Code + 389 + Local Number (without leading 0)
Every country has an exit code to access international lines, followed by Macedonia's country code (389), then the local number.
Dialing from Different Countries
From USA or Canada:
Dial 011-389-XX-XXX-XXX
- 011 is the North American exit code
- 389 is Macedonia's country code
- Drop the leading 0 from the local number
From UK:
Dial 00-389-XX-XXX-XXX
- 00 is the UK exit code
- Then add 389 and the local number
From Other Countries:
Most countries use 00 as the exit code, but verify your location's specific code. Mobile users can use + (press and hold 0) to automatically replace the exit code.
Important Rule: Dropping the Leading Zero
Macedonian numbers begin with 0 when dialed domestically. Always remove this zero when calling internationally.
Specific Examples
Example 1 - Skopje Landline:
Local number: 02 XXX XXX
- From USA: 011-389-2-XXX-XXX
- From UK: 00-389-2-XXX-XXX
- From mobile: +389-2-XXX-XXX
Example 2 - Mobile Number:
Local number: 070 XXX XXX
- From USA: 011-389-70-XXX-XXX
- From UK: 00-389-70-XXX-XXX
- From mobile: +389-70-XXX-XXX
Example 3 - Bitola Landline:
Local number: 047 XXX XXX
- From USA: 011-389-47-XXX-XXX
- From UK: 00-389-47-XXX-XXX
- From mobile: +389-47-XXX-XXX
Quick Tips
- Macedonian mobile numbers typically start with 7
- Landline area codes vary by city (2 for Skopje, 47 for Bitola)
- Using + instead of exit codes works universally from mobile phones
- Consider time zone differences before calling
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 "Macedonia" 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 7,744 users who choose ZippCall for simple international calling.
Common Mistakes
When calling Macedonia, people frequently make these errors that can prevent their call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero - Macedonian phone numbers often appear as 02 XXX XXXX domestically, but when dialing internationally, you must remove the zero. Dial +389 2 XXX XXXX instead of +389 02 XXX XXXX.
Using the wrong exit code - Many callers forget their country's exit code. US/Canada users dial 011-389, while most European countries use 00-389. Alternatively, using + (available on most mobile phones) works universally.
Confusing the country code with area codes - The country code is +389 for all of Macedonia. Area codes come after, like 2 for Skopje or 3 for eastern regions. Don't accidentally dial your own country's area code first.
Incorrect spacing or symbols - Adding hyphens, spaces, or parentheses inconsistently can confuse automated systems. Use a standard format: +389 XX XXX XXX.
Not accounting for mobile vs. landline formats - Mobile numbers in Macedonia typically start with 7, while landlines use geographic codes. Ensure you're using the complete number format appropriate for the phone type.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Macedonia, understanding local customs helps create positive connections. Macedonians value politeness and personal relationships in their communication style.
Greetings Matter
Start calls with "Zdravo" (hello) for informal conversations or "Dobar den" (good day) for formal situations. Always identify yourself clearly, especially in business contexts.
Business vs Personal Calls
Business calls should maintain professionalism, though Macedonians often build personal rapport before discussing work matters. Don't rush straight to business. Personal calls tend to be warm and can be lengthy, as conversation is valued.
Timing Your Calls
Avoid calling during lunch hours (1-3 PM) when many people take breaks. Evening calls after 9 PM are generally too late unless you're close friends. Weekends are reserved for family time, so business calls should wait until weekdays.
Formality Levels
Use formal address ("Vie" instead of "ti") with older people, business contacts, or those you've just met. Once invited, you can switch to informal language.
Voice Messages
Macedonians commonly leave voice messages, so don't be surprised by longer recordings. It's polite to return calls promptly, typically within 24 hours.
Cultural Considerations
Macedonians appreciate directness balanced with warmth. Speaking too quietly may seem uncertain, while moderate volume shows confidence. Small talk about family or current events before business topics shows respect and builds trust in professional relationships.
Ready to call Macedonia?
ZippCall lets you make cheap international calls to Macedonia from any device. No contracts, no hidden fees—just simple pay-as-you-go rates.
Join 7,744 users making affordable international calls with ZippCall.
Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers:
- 112 – Universal Emergency Number (connects to police, ambulance, and fire services)
- 192 – Police
- 194 – Fire Department
- 194 – Ambulance
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from any phone, including mobile devices, even without credit or a SIM card. The 112 number is your best option as it's EU-standard and typically has English-speaking operators available. All services operate 24/7 year-round.
Important Note: While 112 operators are more likely to speak English, local emergency numbers (192, 194) may have limited English support. It's advisable to have your location details written down in Macedonian or seek assistance from nearby locals if language barriers arise. These numbers work throughout North Macedonia, including remote areas where mobile coverage exists.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 188: Directory assistance for local phone numbers
- 12800: International directory assistance
International Services
- 190: International operator for placing calls abroad
Tourist Information
- Tourist Information Center: +389 2 3118 498
Important Embassy Contacts
- US Embassy (Skopje): +389 2 310 2000
- UK Embassy (Skopje): +389 2 329 9299
- German Embassy (Skopje): +389 2 309 6900
Utility Services
- 195: Electricity information
- 196: Water supply information
Transportation
- Railway Information: +389 2 324 6594
- Skopje Airport: +389 2 314 8333
Other Helpful Services
- Road Assistance: 196
- Weather Forecast: 060 300 500
Always verify numbers before travel as they may change. Consider saving these in your phone upon arrival for quick access.
Tips for Calling Macedonia
When calling Macedonia, plan around their UTC+1 (winter) or UTC+2 (summer) time zone to avoid inconvenient hours. For personal calls, evenings between 6-9 PM local time work well. Business calls should target 9 AM-5 PM Monday through Friday, avoiding the typical lunch break from 12-1 PM.
Always schedule business calls in advance—Macedonians appreciate professionalism and punctuality. Avoid calling during major holidays including Orthodox Christmas (January 7), Easter (dates vary), Independence Day (September 8), and the New Year period.
For international rates, consider calling during your provider's off-peak hours, typically evenings and weekends, though this may conflict with Macedonia's business schedule. VoIP services like Skype or WhatsApp offer cost-effective alternatives.
Communication tips: speak clearly and at a moderate pace, as you may encounter language barriers despite widespread English in business settings. If possible, confirm appointments via email beforehand. Poor connections can occur in rural areas, so patience is key. Consider having important details written down to reference if audio quality drops. Mobile networks are generally reliable, but landlines may offer better clarity for lengthy business discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Macedonia (North Macedonia) is +389. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Macedonia from anywhere in the world.
To call Macedonia from your cell phone, dial + (or 011 in the US), then 389 (country code), followed by the local number without the leading zero. For example: +389-XX-XXX-XXX.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from the local Macedonian phone number when calling internationally. After dialing +389, enter the remaining digits of the phone number without the initial zero.
The cheapest way to call Macedonia 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 Macedonia.
In Macedonia, dial 112 for all emergencies (universal emergency number). You can also use specific numbers: 192 for police, 193 for fire department, and 194 for ambulance services. These calls are free from any phone.
Yes! ZippCall allows you to make calls to Macedonia directly from your web browser. Simply visit ZippCall's website, add credit to your account, and start calling—no downloads or installations required for browser-based calling.
Start Calling Macedonia Today
Now that you know how to dial, make cheap calls to Macedonia with ZippCall's crystal-clear connections and unbeatable rates.
Join7,744users who have made13,437minutes of calls in the last 7 days.
View rates for calling Macedonia