How to Call Portugal
Complete guide to dialing Portugal (country code +351)
Planning to connect with someone in Portugal? Whether you're calling for business or reaching out to loved ones, understanding the proper dialing process ensures your call goes through smoothly. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to call Portugal from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, including country codes and area codes, so you can confidently place your call. You'll also learn about common mistakes that might prevent your connection, essential Portuguese phone etiquette to help you make a great impression, and a handy list of useful numbers for emergencies and services. Calling Portugal doesn't have to be complicated—let's make your international calling experience simple and stress-free.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Portugal from abroad, follow this standard format:
Exit Code + 351 + Local Phone Number
The exit code varies by country (011 for USA/Canada, 00 for most European countries, + symbol works from mobile phones worldwide).
Dropping the Leading Zero
Portuguese numbers don't use a leading zero, so dial exactly as displayed after the country code.
How to Dial From Different Countries
From USA/Canada:
Dial 011-351-[phone number]
From UK and most European countries:
Dial 00-351-[phone number]
From mobile phones anywhere:
Dial +351-[phone number]
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Lisbon Landline (21 XXX XXXX):
- From USA: 011-351-21-XXX-XXXX
- From UK: 00-351-21-XXX-XXXX
- From mobile: +351-21-XXX-XXXX
Example 2 - Porto Landline (22 XXX XXXX):
- From USA: 011-351-22-XXX-XXXX
- From UK: 00-351-22-XXX-XXXX
- From mobile: +351-22-XXX-XXXX
Example 3 - Portuguese Mobile Number (9X XXX XXXX):
- From USA: 011-351-9X-XXX-XXXX
- From UK: 00-351-9X-XXX-XXXX
- From mobile: +351-9X-XXX-XXXX
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Find your exit code: Check your country's international dialing prefix (011 for USA, 00 for Europe, or use +)
- Dial Portugal's country code: 351
- Enter the complete local number: Include area code (2X for landlines) or mobile prefix (9X for mobiles)
- Press call: Portuguese landlines are 9 digits total, starting with the area code
Quick Tips
- Portuguese mobile numbers always start with 9
- Landline area codes indicate regions (21=Lisbon, 22=Porto, 28=Madeira)
- Save international contacts with + format for universal compatibility
- Consider using VoIP services or international calling plans to reduce costs
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Common Mistakes
When calling Portugal, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero: Portuguese phone numbers often appear as 021 234 5678 domestically, but when calling internationally, you must remove the initial zero. Dial +351 21 234 5678 instead.
Using incorrect exit codes: Many people dial "00" as the international prefix, but this doesn't work from all countries. The US and Canada require "011" instead. Using "+" is universal and works from any location, making it the safest choice.
Confusing the country code with area codes: Portugal's country code (+351) must come before the local number. Some callers mistakenly try to add it after the area code or skip it entirely when they've saved numbers incorrectly.
Incorrect spacing or formatting: Adding random spaces or hyphens can confuse automated dialing systems. Follow the format: +351 [9-digit number]. Portuguese numbers are always 9 digits after the country code.
Not accounting for mobile versus landline prefixes: Mobile numbers start with 9, while landlines begin with 2. Ensure you're dialing the complete 9-digit number regardless of phone type.
Cultural Etiquette
When calling in Portugal, phone etiquette reflects the country's blend of warmth and formality. Understanding these customs helps ensure respectful communication.
Greetings matter. Begin calls with "Bom dia" (good morning), "Boa tarde" (good afternoon), or "Boa noite" (good evening), followed by identifying yourself. On business calls, always state your full name and purpose clearly.
Formality depends on context. Business calls require formal address using "Senhor" (Mr.) or "Senhora" (Mrs./Ms.) plus the surname until invited to use first names. Personal calls among friends are casual and relaxed, but remain respectful when calling elders or new acquaintances.
Timing is important. Avoid calling during lunch hours (1-3 PM) when many Portuguese take their main meal. Evening calls to homes should be before 9 PM on weekdays. Business calls are best between 9 AM and 12:30 PM or 2:30 PM and 6 PM.
Voice messages are acceptable. If someone doesn't answer, leaving a brief, clear message is appreciated. State your name, reason for calling, and callback number.
Unique considerations include that Portuguese people often engage in brief pleasantries before discussing business matters—jumping straight to the point may seem abrupt. Speaking clearly is valued, as Portuguese pride themselves on their language. Cell phone use is widespread, but avoid loud conversations in public spaces, as discretion is respected.
These courtesies demonstrate cultural awareness and respect.
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Emergency Numbers
112 - Universal Emergency Number
This single number connects you to police, ambulance, and fire services throughout Portugal. Available 24/7 with English-speaking operators. Works from all phones, including mobile devices, and is completely free to call.
Police Services:
- 112 (emergencies)
- PSP (Public Security Police): non-emergency local assistance
- GNR (National Republican Guard): non-emergency in rural areas
Additional Services:
- 808 24 24 00 - SNS Health Line (medical advice, Portuguese language)
- 21 322 7700 - Tourist Police in Lisbon
Important Notes:
All emergency numbers function from mobile phones without credit or SIM cards. The 112 service automatically identifies your location and routes calls to appropriate emergency services. Keep your phone charged when traveling, and note that Portuguese emergency services coordinate efficiently across the country.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 118: National directory assistance for phone numbers and addresses throughout Portugal
International Services
- 171: International operator for assistance with overseas calls and collect calls
- 177: International directory assistance for phone numbers abroad
Tourist Support
- 800 296 296: Tourism helpline providing information in multiple languages about attractions, accommodations, and travel assistance
Embassy Contacts
- Contact your embassy directly; major embassies are located in Lisbon with consulates in Porto and Faro
Additional Useful Numbers
- 808 201 201: National consumer helpline for complaints and consumer rights
- 21 358 5279: Lost and found service (Lisbon)
- 707 201 280: Transportation information (trains and buses)
- +351 21 311 9000: TAP Air Portugal customer service
Keep these numbers accessible alongside emergency contacts for comprehensive travel support.
Tips for Calling Portugal
When calling Portugal, account for their time zone at UTC+0 (WET) or UTC+1 during daylight saving time (late March to late October). If you're in New York, add 5 hours; from Los Angeles, add 8 hours.
For cost savings, call during off-peak hours—typically evenings and weekends—though rates vary by provider. Business calls should occur during standard working hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Always schedule business calls in advance to ensure availability and demonstrate professionalism.
Avoid calling on Portuguese public holidays, including New Year's Day, Freedom Day (April 25), Portugal Day (June 10), and Christmas. August sees many businesses close for summer holidays.
For clear communication, speak slowly and confirm the other party can hear you well, especially on international connections. If language barriers exist, consider using simple English or arrange for translation services beforehand. Mobile coverage in Portugal is excellent, but landlines may offer better clarity for important calls.
Test your connection quality first, ensure you're in a quiet environment, and have relevant documents ready before dialing.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Portugal is +351. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Portugal from anywhere in the world. It identifies Portugal within the global telephone numbering system.
To dial Portugal from your cell phone, start with + (or 011 in the US), then dial 351 (Portugal's country code), followed by the 9-digit local number. For example: +351 XXX XXX XXX. The + symbol replaces your country's international access code.
Portugal's phone numbers don't start with a leading zero, so there's nothing to drop. Simply dial +351 followed by the complete 9-digit Portuguese phone number. All numbers in Portugal are 9 digits long, whether landline or mobile.
The cheapest way to call Portugal 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 Portugal.
The main emergency number in Portugal is 112, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. This number is free to call and works throughout the European Union. For non-emergencies, you can contact local police at 217 654 242.
Yes, you can call Portugal directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Portuguese phone number with the +351 country code, and make your call without downloading any software or apps.
Start Calling Portugal Today
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