How to Call Uruguay
Complete guide to dialing Uruguay (country code +598)
Planning to connect with someone in Uruguay? Whether you're calling for business or keeping in touch with loved ones, understanding how to call Uruguay correctly ensures your call goes through smoothly. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Uruguay from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, including country codes and area codes, so you never miss a connection. You'll also learn about common mistakes people make when dialing internationally and how to avoid them. We've included essential information on Uruguayan phone etiquette to help you make a great impression, plus a handy list of useful numbers for emergencies, directory assistance, and important services. Let's get you connected to Uruguay the right way.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
How to Dial Uruguay: Complete International Calling Guide
Calling Uruguay requires understanding the correct international dialing format. Uruguay's country code is +598, and all calls follow a specific structure depending on your location and the number type you're dialing.
International Dialing Format Structure
The basic format for calling Uruguay is:
Exit Code + 598 + Area Code + Local Number
- Exit code: Varies by country (011 for USA/Canada, 00 for most others)
- Country code: 598 for Uruguay
- Area code: 2 for Montevideo landlines, 9 for mobile numbers
- Local number: 7 digits
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Mobile Number from USA:
To call +598 9X XXX XXXX from the United States:
Dial 011-598-9X-XXX-XXXX
Example 2 - Montevideo Landline from UK:
To call +598 2 XXX XXXX from the United Kingdom:
Dial 00-598-2-XXX-XXXX
Example 3 - Mobile Number from Other Countries:
To call +598 94 123 456 from Australia, Germany, or Spain:
Dial 00-598-94-123-456
Country-Specific Dialing Instructions
From USA/Canada: Replace + with 011
Complete format: 011-598-XX-XXX-XXXX
From UK/Europe: Replace + with 00
Complete format: 00-598-XX-XXX-XXXX
From Mobile Phones Internationally: Simply dial +598-XX-XXX-XXXX (press and hold 0 to create + symbol)
Important Note About Leading Zeros
Uruguay does not use leading zeros in its phone numbers when dialing internationally. Local Uruguayan numbers begin directly with the area code (2 for landlines, 9 for mobiles). Within Uruguay, you may see numbers written with a leading 0, but always drop this zero when dialing from abroad. For example, if a local number appears as 094 123 456, dial it internationally as +598-94-123-456.
Always verify the specific number format with your recipient, as some businesses may use special numbering systems.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Uruguay, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero: Uruguayan phone numbers often appear with a leading 0 in local format (like 091 234 567 for mobile numbers). When calling internationally, you must remove this zero. Dial +598 91 234 567 instead of +598 091 234 567.
Using the wrong exit code: Many people dial "011" (US exit code) even when calling from other countries. Always use your country's specific exit code, or simply use the "+" symbol which works universally on mobile phones.
Confusing the country code with area codes: Uruguay's country code is +598, not to be confused with domestic area codes. After +598, you dial the local number directly—there are no additional area codes needed since Uruguay eliminated them in 2019.
Including unnecessary spaces or dashes: While spaces help readability, adding them incorrectly when dialing can cause connection failures. Enter the complete number sequence without interruption: +598XXXXXXXX.
Dialing old number formats: Uruguay changed its numbering system in recent years. Always verify you're using the current 8-digit format for all numbers.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Uruguay, understanding local customs helps create positive connections. Uruguayans value politeness and personal relationships in both business and social contexts.
Greetings and Tone
Start calls with "Hola" (Hello) followed by identifying yourself. Uruguayans typically use a warm, friendly tone even in business settings. While professional, they're generally less formal than some Latin American countries, so you can be cordial without being overly stiff.
Business vs. Personal Calls
For business calls, use last names and titles (Señor/Señora) until invited to use first names. Personal calls are more relaxed and casual. Building rapport through brief small talk before discussing business matters is appreciated and considered respectful.
Timing Considerations
Avoid calling during lunch hours (12:30-3:00 PM), which Uruguayans take seriously as family time. The best times for business calls are mid-morning (10:00-11:30 AM) or late afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM). Personal calls are welcome in early evenings but avoid calling after 10:00 PM.
Voice Messages
Leaving detailed voicemails is common and expected. State your name, reason for calling, and contact information clearly. Uruguayans typically return calls promptly.
Cultural Notes
Patience is important—conversations may take longer than expected as relationship-building matters. Don't rush calls or appear hurried, as this can seem disrespectful. Uruguayans appreciate directness balanced with warmth and genuine interest in connection.
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Emergency Numbers
Police: 911
Ambulance: 911
Fire Department: 911
Uruguay uses a unified emergency number system where 911 connects you to all emergency services. Operators will direct your call to the appropriate service.
Tourist Police (PolicĂa TurĂstica): 0800-8226 (toll-free) or *8226 from mobile phones
Other Important Numbers:
- Poison Control: 1722
- Children's Emergency Hotline: 0800-5050
Important Information:
All emergency numbers are free to call from any phone, including mobile phones and public telephones. The 911 service operates 24/7 year-round. While Spanish is the primary language, English-speaking operators may be available, particularly through the Tourist Police line. For urgent medical situations requiring private ambulance services, SEMM (Sistema de Emergencia MĂ©dica MĂłvil) can be reached through 911 or private emergency services.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information
- 110: National directory assistance for finding phone numbers throughout Uruguay
International Services
- 000: International operator for assistance with overseas calls and collect calls
Tourist Services
- 1885: Ministry of Tourism hotline providing travel information, guidance, and assistance to visitors
Embassy Contacts
- US Embassy (Montevideo): +598 2 1770 2000
- British Embassy: +598 2 622 3630
- Canadian Embassy: +598 2 902 2030
Other Helpful Numbers
- 0800 4141: Consumer protection hotline for complaints and inquiries
- 2409 7000: Montevideo City Hall for municipal services
- 1997: Immigration services (DNM) for visa and residency questions
- *611: UTE (electricity company) for power outages and service issues
- 1834: OSE (water company) for water service problems
Tips for Calling Uruguay
When calling Uruguay, remember the country operates on UTC-3 year-round, as they don't observe daylight saving time. If you're in New York (UTC-5), Uruguay is two hours ahead; from London (UTC+0), three hours behind.
For business calls, aim for Tuesday through Thursday between 10 AM and 4 PM Uruguayan time—these are optimal windows when offices are fully staffed. Avoid Mondays and Friday afternoons when availability drops. Always schedule business calls at least 24-48 hours in advance, as Uruguayans value punctuality and planning.
Steer clear of major holidays including Carnival (February/March), Holy Week, and the December holiday season when many businesses close or operate with reduced staff. January is vacation month for many professionals.
For personal calls, evenings after 7 PM work well, avoiding meal times around 1-2 PM and 9-10 PM.
To ensure clear communication, speak slowly and confirm key details via email afterward. If possible, learn basic Spanish greetings—while many business professionals speak English, it's appreciated. Test your connection beforehand, as call quality can vary depending on your provider and Uruguay's infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Uruguay is +598. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Uruguay from anywhere in the world. It's an essential prefix for connecting your call to Uruguay's telephone network.
To dial Uruguay from your cell phone, start by entering the plus sign (+) or your country's international access code, followed by 598 (Uruguay's country code), then the area code and local number. For example: +598-2-XXX-XXXX for Montevideo landlines.
Yes, you should drop the leading zero from Uruguay's area code when calling internationally. For instance, Montevideo's area code is 02, but when calling from abroad, dial +598-2 followed by the local number, omitting the initial zero.
The cheapest way to call Uruguay 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 Uruguay.
In Uruguay, dial 911 for police emergencies, 105 for ambulance services, and 104 for fire emergencies. These are toll-free numbers accessible from any phone. For general non-emergency police assistance, you can also contact 0800-8226 (DNIC hotline).
Yes, you can call Uruguay directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Uruguayan phone number you want to reach, and make your call without needing to download any software or apps.
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