How to Call Singapore
Complete guide to dialing Singapore (country code +65)
Planning to connect with someone in the Lion City? Learning how to call Singapore doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're reaching out to family, friends, or business contacts, making an international call to Singapore is straightforward once you understand the basics. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about calling Singapore from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, highlight common mistakes that could prevent your call from going through, and share essential phone etiquette tips to help you make a great impression. You'll also discover useful Singapore phone numbers for emergencies, customer service, and general inquiries. By the end of this guide, you'll be confidently calling Singapore like a pro.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
How to Dial Singapore: Complete International Calling Guide
When calling Singapore from abroad, you'll use the country code +65. Understanding the proper dialing format ensures your calls connect successfully to both mobile and landline numbers.
International Dialing Format Structure
The basic structure follows this pattern:
Exit Code + 65 + Local Number
- Exit Code: Your country's international access code
- 65: Singapore's country code
- Local Number: 8-digit Singapore phone number (no leading zero to drop)
Dialing from Different Countries
From USA:
Dial 011-65-XXXX-XXXX
Example: To call +65 6123 4567, dial 011-65-6123-4567
From UK:
Dial 00-65-XXXX-XXXX
Example: To call +65 9876 5432, dial 00-65-9876-5432
From Other Countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's code (commonly 00 or 011), then add 65 and the local number.
Specific Examples for Different Number Types
Example 1 - Singapore Landline (starts with 6):
To call +65 6234 5678 from USA: 011-65-6234-5678
Example 2 - Singapore Mobile (starts with 8 or 9):
To call +65 9123 4567 from UK: 00-65-9123-4567
Example 3 - Another Singapore Mobile:
To call +65 8765 4321 from Australia: 0011-65-8765-4321
Example 4 - Singapore Landline from Canada:
To call +65 6555 7890: 011-65-6555-7890
Important Notes About Singapore Numbers
Singapore phone numbers are always 8 digits and do not use a leading zero. Unlike some countries where you drop the first zero when dialing internationally, Singapore numbers never have this zero. Simply dial your exit code, followed by 65, then the complete 8-digit number exactly as shown.
Mobile numbers typically begin with 8 or 9, while landlines start with 6. Both follow identical dialing procedures internationally.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Singapore, avoid these common mistakes:
1. Adding a leading zero after the country code
Singapore phone numbers don't use a leading zero. After dialing +65, go straight to the 8-digit local number. For example, dial +65 6123 4567, not +65 06123 4567.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many people dial "00" as the international prefix, but this varies by country. The US and Canada use "011," while other nations may differ. Using "+" instead automatically applies the correct exit code for your location.
3. Confusing Singapore's country code with an area code
Singapore has no area codes—it's a city-state. All numbers are 8 digits after +65. Don't search for additional area codes or try adding extra digits.
4. Including or omitting spaces incorrectly
While spaces don't affect call completion, they can cause confusion when saving contacts. Standard format is +65 XXXX XXXX (splitting the 8-digit number into two groups of four).
5. Forgetting to check if it's a mobile or landline
Singapore mobile numbers typically start with 8 or 9, while landlines begin with 6. Both use the same dialing format.
Cultural Etiquette
When calling in Singapore, understanding local etiquette helps build positive relationships in this culturally diverse society.
Greetings and Formality
Begin business calls with a polite greeting like "Good morning" or "Good afternoon," followed by your name and company. Address recipients as "Mr.," "Ms.," or by their professional title unless invited to use first names. Personal calls can be more casual, but remain respectful, especially with elders.
Business vs Personal Norms
Keep business calls professional and concise. Singaporeans value efficiency, so state your purpose clearly early in the conversation. Personal calls allow more flexibility and warmth, though brevity is still appreciated in this fast-paced city.
Timing Matters
Avoid calling during lunch hours (12-2 PM) or after business hours (past 6 PM) for work matters. For personal calls, late evenings after 9 PM are generally too late unless you're close with the person.
Voice Messages
Leave clear, brief voicemails stating your name, reason for calling, and contact information. Many Singaporeans prefer text messages over voicemails, so consider following up with a WhatsApp or SMS.
Cultural Considerations
Singapore's multicultural population means you may encounter various languages—English, Mandarin, Malay, or Tamil. Speaking clearly in English is generally safe for business. Show patience and respect if language barriers arise. Avoid raising your voice, as Singaporeans value calm, measured communication that reflects harmony and respect.
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Emergency Numbers
999 – Police and Ambulance (Singapore Police Force and Singapore Civil Defence Force)
995 – Fire and Medical Emergencies (Singapore Civil Defence Force)
1777 – Non-emergency Police hotline for reporting minor crimes
6535 2020 – Traffic Police Hotline
1800-255-0000 – Samaritans of Singapore (24-hour suicide prevention and emotional support)
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from mobile phones, landlines, and public payphones. English-speaking operators are available 24/7, along with support in Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. When calling, clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency. Singapore's integrated emergency response system ensures rapid deployment of services. For life-threatening situations, call 999 or 995 immediately. Mobile phone users can also dial 112, which automatically redirects to 999. Keep your phone charged and accessible at all times.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information
- 100: Local Directory Assistance for finding Singapore phone numbers
- 104: International Directory Assistance for overseas numbers
International Services
- 1001: International Operator for operator-assisted overseas calls
Tourist Support
- 1800-736-2000: Singapore Tourism Board Hotline (STB Tourist Information)
- 6736-2000: STB Hotline (mobile/overseas callers)
Embassy Contacts
Contact your country's embassy directly. Major embassies maintain 24-hour emergency lines.
Other Useful Numbers
- 1800-225-5632: National Environment Agency (NEA) for environmental concerns
- 6-CALL-LTA (6-2255-582): Land Transport Authority for public transport inquiries
- 1800-333-0333: Public Utilities Board (PUB) for water supply issues
- 1777: Non-emergency traffic police hotline
Save these numbers in your phone for convenient access during your stay.
Tips for Calling Singapore
When calling Singapore, account for their time zone of UTC+8, which is 13 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. For business calls, aim for Singapore's working hours (9 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Friday), which translates to 8 PM to 5 AM EST the previous day—consider calling early morning or late evening your time.
Schedule business calls at least 24-48 hours in advance, as Singaporean professionals value punctuality and planning. Avoid calling during major holidays including Chinese New Year (late January/February), Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali, and Christmas.
For cost savings, check with your provider about off-peak international rates, typically available during weekends or late nights in your time zone.
To ensure clear communication, speak slowly and articulate clearly, as English is widely spoken but accents vary. Confirm important details via email after calls. If possible, use video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Teams, which many Singaporean businesses prefer. Be mindful that lunch hours (12-2 PM) may result in delayed responses. Always open conversations professionally and avoid overly casual language during initial business contacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Singapore is +65. You'll need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Singapore from anywhere in the world.
To call Singapore from your cell phone, dial + (or 011 in the US), then 65 (Singapore's country code), followed by the 8-digit local phone number. For example: +65 1234 5678.
Singapore phone numbers don't start with a zero, so there's nothing to drop. Simply dial +65 followed by the 8-digit local number. All Singapore mobile and landline numbers follow this format.
The cheapest way to call Singapore 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 Singapore.
In Singapore, dial 999 for police emergencies and 995 for ambulance and fire services. These emergency numbers are toll-free and can be called from any phone, including mobile phones, even without a SIM card.
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