How to Call Paraguay
Complete guide to dialing Paraguay (country code +595)
Planning to connect with someone in South America? Learning how to call Paraguay doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're reaching out to family, coordinating business matters, or making travel arrangements, understanding the proper dialing process ensures your call goes through successfully the first time.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Paraguay from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, highlight common mistakes that could prevent your connection, and share essential phone etiquette tips to help you make a great impression. You'll also discover useful emergency numbers and important contacts to keep handy. By the end, you'll be confidently calling Paraguay like a pro, avoiding costly errors and unnecessary frustration along the way.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Paraguay, you need to follow this structure: Exit Code + 595 + Area Code + Local Number. The exit code varies by country, while 595 is Paraguay's country code.
Dialing from Different Countries
From the USA or Canada:
Dial 011 (exit code) + 595 + area code + local number
From the UK:
Dial 00 (exit code) + 595 + area code + local number
From other countries:
Most countries use 00 as their exit code, but check your specific country. Mobile users can typically dial + instead of the exit code.
Important: Dropping the Leading Zero
Paraguay landline numbers often start with zero when dialing domestically. Always drop this leading zero when calling internationally. For example, if a local Asunción number is 021-123-456, you'd drop the "0" and dial only the "21" area code.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Asunción Landline (Area code 21):
- From USA: 011-595-21-XXX-XXX
- From UK: 00-595-21-XXX-XXX
- From mobile anywhere: +595-21-XXX-XXX
Example 2 - Mobile Number (starts with 9):
Paraguayan mobile numbers begin with 9 and have no area code.
- From USA: 011-595-9XX-XXX-XXX
- From UK: 00-595-9XX-XXX-XXX
- From mobile anywhere: +595-9XX-XXX-XXX
Example 3 - Ciudad del Este Landline (Area code 61):
- From USA: 011-595-61-XXX-XXX
- From UK: 00-595-61-XXX-XXX
- From mobile anywhere: +595-61-XXX-XXX
Quick Steps Summary
- Dial your country's exit code (011 for USA, 00 for UK, or + from mobiles)
- Dial 595 (Paraguay country code)
- Drop any leading zero from the local number
- Dial the area code for landlines or 9 for mobiles
- Dial the remaining local number
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Common Mistakes
When calling Paraguay, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero: Paraguayan phone numbers often appear with a leading zero in local format (like 021-xxx-xxx for Asunción). When calling internationally, you must drop this zero. Dial +595 21 xxx xxx, not +595 021 xxx xxx.
Using the wrong exit code: Many callers forget their own country's exit code. If you're not using the + format, you need your country's specific exit code (011 from the US/Canada, 00 from Europe) before 595. Don't just dial 595 directly.
Confusing country code with area code: The country code is 595, not 59. Paraguay's area codes come after this (21 for Asunción, 61 for Ciudad del Este). The complete format is +595 [area code] [local number].
Misdialing mobile numbers: Paraguayan mobile numbers start with 9 and have a different format than landlines. After +595, dial 9xx xxx xxx without adding an area code.
Including spaces incorrectly: While spaces don't affect connection, inconsistent formatting causes confusion when saving contacts. Use a standard format like +595 21 123 4567.
Cultural Etiquette
In Paraguay, phone etiquette reflects the country's warm and relationship-oriented culture. When answering calls, Paraguayans typically greet with "Hola" or "Aló," followed by identifying themselves. In business contexts, it's appropriate to use formal titles like "Señor" or "Señora" until invited to use first names.
Business calls should be made during standard working hours, typically between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM on weekdays. Avoid calling during siesta time (roughly 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM), as many businesses close during this period. Personal calls are generally welcome until about 9:00 PM, though close friends and family may call later.
Paraguayans value personal connection, so expect some small talk before diving into business matters. Asking about family or exchanging pleasantries isn't considered time-wasting but rather essential relationship-building. Don't rush conversations or appear impatient.
While Spanish is the primary business language, many Paraguayans speak Guaraní among friends and family. If you hear Guaraní during calls, don't be offended—it's part of the national identity.
Voice messages are commonly used and appreciated, especially if someone doesn't answer. Keep them brief but friendly, clearly stating your name, purpose, and callback number. WhatsApp voice messages are extremely popular for both personal and business communication.
Remember that Paraguayans generally prefer a warm, personable approach over cold efficiency. Building rapport through phone conversations is considered just as important as the actual business being discussed.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers:
- 911 - Universal Emergency Number (police, ambulance, fire department)
- 912 - National Police
- 131 - Fire Department
- 141 - Ambulance/Medical Emergency
- 147 - Traffic Police
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from both landlines and mobile phones throughout Paraguay. The universal 911 number operates 24/7 and connects you to all emergency services, making it the most reliable option for visitors.
Important Notes:
- Emergency operators primarily speak Spanish and Guaraní; English-speaking operators are limited
- Response times vary significantly between urban areas like Asunción and rural regions
- Mobile phone coverage can be unreliable in remote areas
- Consider having a Spanish-speaking contact or translation app available
- Private ambulance services may provide faster response in cities but require payment
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 110: National directory assistance for phone numbers and addresses
International Services
- 00: International operator for assisted overseas calls and collect calls
Tourist Information
- Senatur (National Tourism Secretariat): +595 21 494 110 - General tourism information, maps, and travel guidance
Embassy Contacts
- U.S. Embassy (Asunción): +595 21 213 715
- British Embassy: +595 21 612 614
- Canadian Embassy: +595 21 227 207
Other Useful Numbers
- Consumer Protection (Defensa del Consumidor): 155 - Product complaints and consumer rights assistance
- Time and Weather: 113 - Automated time and weather information
- Taxi Services: Most reliable companies operate through apps or hotel bookings
Keep these numbers saved in your phone when traveling throughout Paraguay for convenient access to essential services.
Tips for Calling Paraguay
When calling Paraguay, remember the country operates on Paraguay Time (PYT), which is UTC-4 for most of the year and UTC-3 during daylight saving time (October to March). Calculate the time difference from your location to avoid inconvenient hours.
For business calls, aim for 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM local time, Monday through Friday. Paraguayans typically take lunch between noon and 2:00 PM, so mid-morning or mid-afternoon works best. Always schedule business calls in advance via email to demonstrate professionalism and ensure availability.
Avoid calling on major holidays including New Year's Day, Heroes' Day (March 1), Easter, Labor Day (May 1), Independence Day (May 14-15), and Christmas. Fridays after 3:00 PM can be less productive as the workweek winds down.
For international calls, off-peak rates typically apply during evenings and weekends, though VoIP services and mobile apps often offer flat rates regardless of timing.
To ensure clear communication, speak slowly and confirm important details. Many Paraguayans speak Spanish and Guaraní, with limited English proficiency in some sectors. Consider having a translator available if discussing complex matters, and always follow up written confirmation of key discussion points.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Paraguay is +595. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Paraguay from anywhere in the world. It identifies Paraguay within the global telephone numbering system.
To dial Paraguay from your cell phone, start with + (or 011 in the US/Canada), then dial 595 (Paraguay's country code), followed by the area code and local number. For example: +595 21 XXX XXXX for Asunción landlines.
Yes, you should drop the leading zero from the area code when calling Paraguay internationally. If a local number shows as 021-XXX-XXXX, dial +595 21 XXX XXXX, removing the initial zero from the area code.
The cheapest way to call Paraguay 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 Paraguay.
In Paraguay, dial 911 for general emergencies. Other important numbers include 132 for police, 131 for fire department, and 141 for ambulance services. These emergency numbers are toll-free and can be dialed from any phone within Paraguay.
Yes, you can call Paraguay directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Paraguayan phone number with the +595 country code, and make your call without downloading any software or apps.
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