How to Call Russia
Complete guide to dialing Russia (country code +7)
Calling Russia doesn't have to be complicated once you understand the proper dialing procedures. Whether you're connecting with family, friends, or business contacts, knowing how to call Russia correctly will save you time and frustration. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need for calling Russia from anywhere in the world. You'll learn the exact dialing format, including exit codes, country codes, and area codes that make your call go through smoothly. We'll also cover common mistakes people make when dialing internationally, proper phone etiquette to respect Russian customs, and a list of useful emergency and service numbers you might need. By the end of this guide, you'll be confident making calls to Russia without any hassle or confusion.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
How to Dial Russia: Complete International Calling Guide
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Russia from abroad, use this format: Exit Code + 7 + Area Code + Local Number
Russia's country code is +7, and phone numbers typically have 10 digits after the country code (including the area code).
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
From the USA or Canada:
- Dial 011 (US/Canada exit code)
- Dial 7 (Russia country code)
- Dial the area code and local number
From the UK:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code)
- Dial 7 (Russia country code)
- Dial the area code and local number
From other countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's international access code (commonly 00), then dial 7 and the Russian number.
Practical Examples
Example 1 - Moscow Landline:
To call +7 495 123 4567 from USA: 011-7-495-123-4567
From UK: 00-7-495-123-4567
Example 2 - St. Petersburg Landline:
To call +7 812 987 6543 from USA: 011-7-812-987-6543
From UK: 00-7-812-987-6543
Example 3 - Russian Mobile Number:
To call +7 916 555 1234 from USA: 011-7-916-555-1234
From UK: 00-7-916-555-1234
Russian mobile numbers typically start with area codes like 916, 917, 926, or 985.
Important Notes About Leading Zeros
Russian phone numbers do not use leading zeros before area codes when dialing internationally. Always start with the area code directly after the country code +7. If you see a Russian number written as 8-495-XXX-XXXX (domestic format), drop the "8" and dial +7-495-XXX-XXXX internationally.
When calling from mobile phones, you can usually replace the exit code with the + symbol: +7-XXX-XXX-XXXX.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Russia, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from going through:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero - Russian phone numbers often appear with a leading "0" in local format (like 0495 XXX-XX-XX for Moscow). Always remove this zero when dialing internationally. The correct format is +7 495 XXX-XX-XX, not +7 0495 XXX-XX-XX.
Using the wrong exit code - Many people dial "00" assuming it's universal, but exit codes vary by country. US and Canada use "011," while most European countries use "00." Check your country's specific exit code or simply use "+" which works from all mobile phones.
Confusing the country code with area codes - Russia's country code is +7, but don't confuse this with city codes like 495 (Moscow) or 812 (St. Petersburg). You need both: +7 (country) + city code + local number.
Incorrect spacing or formatting - While spaces don't technically affect dialing, inconsistent formatting causes confusion when saving numbers. Use a standard format like +7 XXX XXX-XX-XX for clarity.
Not accounting for time zones - Russia spans 11 time zones. Verify the recipient's local time before calling to avoid inconvenient hours.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Russia, understanding local customs helps create positive impressions and smoother communication.
Greetings and Formality
Russians typically answer with "Алло" (allo) or "Слушаю" (slushаyu, meaning "I'm listening"). For business calls, always use formal address with name and patronymic (father's name), such as "Ivan Petrovich." Personal calls allow more casual greetings, but maintain respect with elders and new acquaintances.
Business vs. Personal Norms
Business calls should be direct and purposeful. Russians appreciate efficiency and clarity in professional settings. State your name and reason for calling immediately. Personal calls can be longer and more conversational, as Russians value deep connections with friends and family.
Timing Considerations
Avoid calling before 9 AM or after 9 PM unless it's urgent or pre-arranged. Weekends are reserved for personal time, so business calls should wait until weekdays. Lunchtime (1-2 PM) is generally acceptable for both business and personal calls.
Voice Messages
Russians are comfortable with voice messages but prefer actual conversations when possible. Keep voicemails brief and clear, always leaving your name and contact information.
Cultural Considerations
Speaking clearly and at moderate volume shows respect. Excessive small talk in business contexts may seem insincere, while too much brevity in personal calls can appear cold. Russians often expect longer phone conversations with close contacts, viewing this as genuine interest in the relationship.
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Emergency Numbers
Emergency Services in Russia:
- 112 - Universal emergency number (connects to all services, English-speaking operators available)
- 102 - Police (Полиция)
- 103 - Ambulance (Скорая помощь)
- 101 - Fire Department (Пожарная служба)
- 104 - Gas Emergency Service
All emergency numbers are toll-free and operate 24/7. They can be called from both landlines and mobile phones, even without a SIM card or credit. The universal number 112 is particularly useful for foreign visitors as it's more likely to have English-speaking operators available. Traditional three-digit numbers (101-104) may have limited English support, so having basic Russian phrases or a translation app ready is advisable. In major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, emergency services generally respond faster than in rural areas.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- Dial 09 for domestic directory assistance to find phone numbers across Russia
- For international operator assistance, call 8-10 (followed by country code)
Tourist Services
- Tourist Helpline: +7 (495) 587-3023 (English-speaking support for visitors in Moscow)
- Moscow City Information: +7 (495) 777-7777
Embassy Contacts
Contact your embassy directly for citizen services. Most embassies are located in Moscow, with consulates in major cities like St. Petersburg and Yekaterinburg.
Transportation Services
- Railway Information: 8-800-775-0000 (Russian Railways)
- Aeroflot Information: 8-800-444-5555
Utilities
- Gas Emergency: 04
- Unified Reference Service: 88007007701 (multi-service information)
Banking
Major banks offer 24/7 customer service lines, typically found on your card.
Tips for Calling Russia
When calling Russia, timing is crucial due to its vast territory spanning eleven time zones, ranging from UTC+2 (Kaliningrad) to UTC+12 (Kamchatka). Moscow operates on UTC+3, where most business activity concentrates.
For business calls, target 10 AM to 5 PM Moscow time on weekdays. Schedule important calls in advance—Russians appreciate formal arrangements and punctuality. Avoid calling during lunch hours (1-2 PM) when offices may be understaffed.
Peak calling rates typically apply during business hours, while evenings and weekends offer cheaper rates for personal calls. Consider off-peak times if budget matters.
Avoid calling during major Russian holidays: New Year (January 1-8), Orthodox Christmas (January 7), Defender of the Fatherland Day (February 23), International Women's Day (March 8), Victory Day (May 9), and Russia Day (June 12).
For clear communication, speak slowly and avoid idioms if language barriers exist. Connection quality can vary, especially in remote regions, so confirm important details via email afterward. If using mobile phones, verify international roaming charges beforehand, as they can be substantial. Having a backup calling method like WhatsApp or Skype ensures reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Russia is +7. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Russia from anywhere in the world. The +7 country code is shared with Kazakhstan.
To dial Russia from your cell phone, start with + (or 011 in the US), then dial 7 (Russia's country code), followed by the area code and local number. For example: +7-XXX-XXX-XXXX, where XXX represents the area code and local digits.
Yes, if the Russian phone number starts with a zero when dialing domestically, you should drop it when calling internationally. After dialing +7, proceed directly with the area code and local number without any leading zero.
The cheapest way to call Russia 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 Russia.
In Russia, dial 112 for general emergencies (works from any phone). Other emergency numbers include 101 for fire services, 102 for police, and 103 for ambulance services. These numbers are toll-free and available 24/7 throughout Russia.
Yes, you can easily call Russia directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Russian phone number you want to reach, and make your call without downloading any software or apps.
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