How to Call Sweden
Complete guide to dialing Sweden (country code +46)
Planning to reach someone in Sweden? Whether you're calling for business, connecting with family, or coordinating travel plans, understanding how to call Sweden correctly will save you time and frustration. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Sweden from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, including country codes and area codes, so you can make your call on the first try. You'll also learn about common mistakes people make when calling Sweden and how to avoid them. Additionally, we'll explore Swedish phone etiquette to help you make a great impression, and provide a list of useful numbers for emergencies, customer service, and travel assistance. Let's get started!
On This Page
Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Sweden from abroad, follow this format: Exit Code + 46 + Local Number (without leading zero)
Sweden's country code is +46, and you must remove the leading zero from Swedish phone numbers when dialing internationally.
Step-by-Step Instructions by Country
From the USA or Canada:
- Dial 011 (exit code)
- Dial 46 (Sweden's country code)
- Dial the local number without the leading zero
From the UK:
- Dial 00 (exit code)
- Dial 46 (Sweden's country code)
- Dial the local number without the leading zero
From other countries:
Most countries use 00 as their exit code, though some differ. Check your country's international access code, then follow with 46 and the local number.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Stockholm Landline:
- Swedish number: 08-1234 5678
- From USA: 011-46-8-1234-5678
- From UK: 00-46-8-1234-5678
- Note: Drop the leading zero from "08"
Example 2 - Swedish Mobile Number:
- Swedish number: 070-123 4567
- From USA: 011-46-70-123-4567
- From UK: 00-46-70-123-4567
- Note: Drop the leading zero from "070"
Example 3 - Gothenburg Landline:
- Swedish number: 031-123 4567
- From USA: 011-46-31-123-4567
- From UK: 00-46-31-123-4567
- Note: Drop the leading zero from "031"
Important Tips
Dropping the Leading Zero: Swedish phone numbers always start with zero domestically (like 08, 070, 031), but this zero must be removed when dialing internationally. This is crucial—including it will cause the call to fail.
Using the + Symbol: On mobile phones, press and hold 0 to insert the + symbol, then dial 46 followed by the number without the leading zero. This works from any country automatically.
The Easy Way with ZippCall
Don't want to memorize exit codes, country codes, and dialing formats? With ZippCall, you don't have to.
Simply select "Sweden" from the country list, enter the local phone number exactly as you see it, and ZippCall automatically handles all the international dialing codes for you. No confusion, no mistakes—just easy calling.
Join 7,770 users who choose ZippCall for simple international calling.
Common Mistakes
When calling Sweden, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero - Swedish phone numbers often appear with a leading zero (like 08-123 4567), but you must remove it when dialing internationally. The zero is only used for domestic calls within Sweden. Dial +46 8 123 4567, not +46 08 123 4567.
Using the wrong exit code - Different countries use different exit codes to make international calls. While 011 works from the US and Canada, most European countries use 00. Alternatively, use the + symbol (hold 0 on mobile phones) which works universally.
Confusing the country code with area codes - The country code +46 comes first, followed by the area code (without the zero). For Stockholm, it's +46 8, not +46 46. The number 46 appears in some Swedish area codes, which can be confusing.
Incorrectly spacing the number - While formatting doesn't affect connection, using proper spacing helps avoid misdialing. Swedish numbers are typically formatted as +46 XX XXX XXXX or +46 XXX XXX XXX depending on the region.
Cultural Etiquette
When calling someone in Sweden, it's important to understand the local customs to make a good impression. Swedes value efficiency and clarity in phone communication.
Greetings and Formality
Answer calls by stating your full name, such as "Hej, Anna Andersson." This direct approach is standard for both personal and business calls. Swedes appreciate straightforwardness, so skip lengthy small talk and get to the point relatively quickly.
Business vs Personal Calls
Business calls tend to be more structured but still less formal than in many other countries. Using first names is common, even in professional settings. For personal calls, keep conversations brief unless the other person indicates they have time to chat.
Timing Matters
Avoid calling before 9 AM or after 8 PM unless it's urgent or pre-arranged. Lunch hours (12-1 PM) are also best avoided for business calls. Swedes respect work-life balance, so evening calls should be reserved for close friends or family.
Voice Messages
Leaving clear, concise voice messages is appreciated. State your name, reason for calling, and preferred callback time. Many Swedes prefer text messages over voicemails for non-urgent matters.
Cultural Considerations
Swedes value privacy and personal space, so unexpected calls may be seen as intrusive. When possible, send a text first asking when it's convenient to talk. This shows respect for their time and schedule.
Ready to call Sweden?
ZippCall lets you make cheap international calls to Sweden from any device. No contracts, no hidden fees—just simple pay-as-you-go rates.
Join 7,770 users making affordable international calls with ZippCall.
Emergency Numbers
112 - Universal Emergency Number
This single number connects you to police, ambulance, and fire services throughout Sweden. Available 24/7 with English-speaking operators. Works from all phones, including mobile devices, and is completely free to call, even without credit or a SIM card.
114 14 - Non-Emergency Police Line
For reporting crimes or incidents that don't require immediate assistance. English support available during business hours.
1177 - Healthcare Information and Advice
Non-emergency medical guidance available 24/7. Nurses provide advice on symptoms and direct you to appropriate care. English operators accessible.
All emergency numbers function reliably from mobile phones throughout Sweden, including in remote areas where regular service may be limited. When calling 112, clearly state which service you need and your location.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services:
- 118 118: General directory assistance for Swedish phone numbers and addresses
- 118 119: International directory assistance
International Operator:
- 0018: For operator-assisted international calls
Tourist Information:
- +46 8 508 285 08: Stockholm Visitor Center for tourism inquiries
- Tourist offices vary by city; check local listings
Embassy Contacts:
Your embassy can assist with lost passports, legal issues, and emergencies. Search "your country embassy Sweden" for specific numbers.
Other Useful Services:
- 1177: Healthcare advice and information (non-emergency medical guidance)
- +46 771 793 336: SJ (Swedish Railways) customer service
- +46 10 516 40 00: Swedish Migration Agency
Taxi Services:
- Taxi Stockholm: +46 8 15 00 00
- Uber and Bolt apps also operate in major cities
Tips for Calling Sweden
When calling Sweden, factor in their time zone: UTC+1 (Central European Time) in winter and UTC+2 during daylight saving time (late March to late October). If you're calling from the US East Coast, add 6 hours; from the West Coast, add 9 hours.
For business calls, aim for 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Swedish time, Monday through Friday. Always schedule professional calls in advance—Swedes value punctuality and planning. Avoid calling during lunch hours (12:00-1:00 PM) when many step away from their desks.
Be mindful of major holidays: Christmas (December 24-26), Midsummer (late June), and Easter. Swedes also take substantial summer vacations in July, making August better for business contact.
For personal calls, evenings and weekends work well, but avoid calling after 9:00 PM unless previously arranged.
Communication tips: Swedes generally speak excellent English, so language barriers are minimal. Speak clearly and be direct but polite—Swedish business culture values straightforwardness. Confirm appointments via email beforehand and be ready at the agreed time. Consider using video calls for important discussions, as Swedes appreciate modern, efficient communication methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Sweden is +46. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Sweden from any country. It's an essential prefix that routes your call to Sweden's telephone network.
To dial Sweden from your cell phone, start with + (or 011 in the US), then dial 46, followed by the area code without the leading zero, and then the local number. For example: +46-8-XXXX-XXXX for Stockholm numbers.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from Swedish area codes when calling from abroad. Swedish area codes start with 0 for domestic calls, but when dialing internationally, remove this zero after entering the +46 country code.
The cheapest way to call Sweden 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 Sweden.
The main emergency number in Sweden is 112, which connects you to police, fire, and ambulance services. This number is free to call and works from any phone, including mobile phones without a SIM card. It's available 24/7 throughout Sweden.
Yes, you can call Sweden directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Swedish phone number you want to reach, and make your call instantly without downloading any software or apps.
Start Calling Sweden Today
Now that you know how to dial, make cheap calls to Sweden with ZippCall's crystal-clear connections and unbeatable rates.
Join7,770users who have made12,088minutes of calls in the last 7 days.
View rates for calling Sweden