How to Call Palau
Complete guide to dialing Palau (country code +680)
Planning to make a phone call to Palau but unsure where to start? Whether you're contacting family, friends, or business associates in this beautiful Pacific island nation, knowing how to call Palau correctly will save you time and frustration. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need for calling Palau successfully, from step-by-step dialing instructions to understanding country and area codes. We'll cover the most common mistakes people make when placing international calls, share essential phone etiquette tips to help you make a great impression, and provide a handy list of useful numbers you might need during your communication. By the end of this guide, you'll have the confidence to connect with anyone in Palau without hesitation.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
How to Dial Palau: Complete International Calling Guide
Calling Palau requires understanding the international dialing format and country-specific procedures. Palau's country code is +680, and the nation doesn't use area codes or mobile-specific prefixes.
International Dialing Format Structure
The standard format for calling Palau follows this pattern:
Exit Code + 680 + Local Number
Palau's local numbers are typically 7 digits. There are no leading zeros to drop when dialing from abroad, simplifying the process considerably.
Calling from Different Countries
From the United States:
- Dial 011 (US exit code)
- Dial 680 (Palau country code)
- Dial the 7-digit local number
Example: To call 488-2552 in Palau from USA: 011-680-488-2552
From the United Kingdom:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code)
- Dial 680 (Palau country code)
- Dial the 7-digit local number
Example: To call 488-1234 in Palau from UK: 00-680-488-1234
From Other Countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's international access code (commonly 00 in most countries), followed by 680 and the local number.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Calling a Koror landline from USA:
To reach 488-6512: 011-680-488-6512
Example 2 - Calling a mobile number from UK:
To reach 775-3344: 00-680-775-3344
Example 3 - Using the + symbol (mobile phones):
Modern smartphones allow using + instead of exit codes.
To call 620-8899: +680-620-8899 (works from any country)
Important Notes
Palau doesn't differentiate between mobile and landline numbers in dialing format—both use the same 7-digit structure. Mobile numbers in Palau often begin with 6 or 7, while landlines typically start with 4 or 5, but the dialing procedure remains identical for both types.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Palau, avoid these common dialing errors:
Forgetting the exit code - Many callers dial +680 directly without first entering their country's international access code. From the US/Canada, dial 011 before 680. From the UK and most of Europe, dial 00 first. The "+" symbol is just a placeholder for your exit code.
Adding unnecessary zeros - Unlike many countries, Palau has no area codes or trunk prefixes. After dialing +680, go straight to the local number. Don't add a leading zero.
Confusing the country code with an area code - Some assume 680 is an area code requiring additional digits before it. Palau's country code is 680, and it applies to the entire nation. There are no regional area codes.
Incorrect number length - Palau phone numbers are typically 7 digits. If you're dialing significantly more or fewer digits after the country code, double-check the number.
Adding spaces or dashes incorrectly - Format matters when using automated systems. The standard format is +680-XXX-XXXX. Verify formatting if your call won't connect despite correct digits.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Palau, understanding local customs helps build respectful connections. Palauans value courtesy and relationship-building, which extends to telephone conversations.
Greetings and Tone
Begin calls with a warm "Alii" (hello in Palauan) or "Hello," followed by identifying yourself. Palauans appreciate a friendly, respectful tone that balances professionalism with warmth. Starting with brief small talk, especially asking about family or well-being, is common and welcomed.
Business vs. Personal Calls
Business calls should be slightly more formal, though not overly stiff. Personal calls tend to be relaxed and conversational. However, Palauans generally prefer face-to-face interactions for important matters when possible.
Timing Considerations
Avoid calling during early morning hours (before 8 AM) or late evening (after 9 PM). Lunchtime calls are acceptable. Be mindful that family time is valued, particularly during weekends and evenings.
Voice Messages
Leaving clear, concise voice messages is appreciated. State your name, purpose, and contact information. Don't be surprised if responses take time—Palauans may prefer returning calls when they can give full attention.
Cultural Considerations
Patience is essential; conversations may take longer than in Western cultures due to relationship-building emphasis. Respect for elders is paramount—use courteous language when speaking with older individuals. English is widely spoken alongside Palauan, so language barriers are typically minimal. Remember that Palau's small population means discretion and respect in all communications are especially important.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers for Palau:
- Police Emergency: 911
- Fire Department: 911
- Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 911
- Belau National Hospital: 488-2552 or 488-1411
- Coast Guard Search and Rescue: 488-1422
Palau uses the 911 system for all primary emergency services, similar to the United States. This number is toll-free and accessible from all phones, including mobile devices. English-speaking operators are available, as English is one of Palau's official languages alongside Palauan. Emergency services operate 24/7, though response times may vary depending on your location within the island nation. For non-emergency medical situations, contact Belau National Hospital directly. When calling from remote areas or smaller islands, be prepared to provide detailed location information, as infrastructure can be limited outside Koror, the main population center.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- Directory Assistance: 411 – For local phone numbers and business listings
International Services
- International Operator: 00 – Assistance with overseas calls and connections
Tourism & Travel
- Palau Visitors Authority: +680-488-2793 – Tourist information, activity bookings, and travel guidance
- Bureau of Immigration: +680-488-2498 – Visa inquiries and extensions
Embassy Contacts
- U.S. Embassy (Manila): +63-2-5301-2000 – Consular services for American citizens
- Philippine Embassy: +680-488-2142
- Japan Embassy: +680-488-6000
- Taiwan Embassy: +680-488-4389
Other Helpful Services
- Palau International Airport: +680-488-2830 – Flight information
- Palau Public Library: +680-488-2973 – Research and reference services
- Ministry of Health: +680-488-2552 – Health inquiries and medical facility information
Tips for Calling Palau
When calling Palau (UTC+9), timing is crucial for successful connections. The country operates nine hours ahead of UTC, with no daylight saving time changes throughout the year.
For international calls, aim for Palau's standard business hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Government offices typically close by 4:30 PM. Schedule business calls in advance, as Palauans appreciate professional courtesy and punctuality.
Avoid calling during major holidays including Independence Day (October 1), Constitution Day (July 9), and Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday in November). Sundays are generally reserved for family and church activities.
Peak calling times coincide with business hours, while early mornings and evenings offer off-peak rates from most carriers. Consider calling during overlapping work hours with your time zone for better response rates.
For clear communication, speak slowly and clearly—English is widely spoken, but connection quality varies across the islands. Confirm important details in writing via email afterward. When scheduling video calls, account for Palau's limited bandwidth in some areas and suggest audio-only alternatives as backup options.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Palau is +680. You'll need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Palau from anywhere in the world.
To call Palau from your cell phone, dial your country's international access code (often + or 011), then 680 (Palau's country code), followed by the 7-digit local phone number. For example: +680-XXX-XXXX.
Palau's phone numbers don't use a leading zero, so this isn't a concern. Simply dial +680 followed by the 7-digit local number. All Palauan phone numbers follow this consistent format.
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In Palau, dial 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies. This number connects you to emergency services throughout the country. Keep this number handy when traveling to Palau for your safety.
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