Country Code

Make International Calls to Brazil: Country Code & Dialling Guide

Brazil Country Code +55

Technical Writer

Asfand Yar is a content editor with over 5 years of experience in the B2B and SaaS industry. With a keen eye for detail, he’s dedicated to crafting content that resonates with the target audience. His interests include reading, traveling, and staying up-to-date with the latest marketing trends.

Brazil Country Code: +55

The country code for Brazil +55 is crucial for any communications linking to the South American nation.

This code comes before all Brazilian phone numbers when calling from overseas, allowing for smooth communication across borders.

To help, let’s talk about:

Making International Calls to Brazil

When calling Brazil from another country, dial the Brazil country code +55. This code ensures your call is directed to the right place in Brazil, facilitating efficient and reliable international communication.

Brazilian Phone Number Structure

To make an international call to Brazil, use the format +55 followed by the Brazilian phone number, omitting the initial 0 of the area code or mobile number.

For example, to call the number 09XX XXX XXX, you would dial +55 9XX XXX XXX.

What is a Country Code?

In telecommunications systems, a country code is a numerical prefix that designates a particular nation or geographical area.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) assigns each nation a unique country code, enabling effective international communication.

Dialing international phone numbers usually indicates the country to which the call is directed.

Are there other codes in Brazil I need to be aware of?

Brazil also has an area code for all mobile phones. To call a mobile phone from Brazil, dial the country code 9 and the phone number.

When calling outside Brazil, leave the “0” in the area code.

For example, if calling a mobile phone from outside Brazil, you would dial +55 9 and the 8-digit mobile number.

How to Call Brazil from a Landline or Mobile Number

Calling Brazil from a Mobile Phone

Making international calls from a mobile phone is straightforward if you follow the correct procedure.

Here are the sequences you need to call a mobile phone or a landline.

Dial the International Access Code

The international access code varies by country. For example, the United States uses 011, the United Kingdom uses 00, and Australia uses 0011.

Confirm your country’s international access code with your local service provider or government telecom website.

Enter the Country Code for Brazil

After the international access code, dial +55, which is the country code for Brazil.

Dial the Area Code

Enter the specific area code for the region you are calling. If you call a mobile number in Brazil, the area code is usually not required, as mobile numbers typically start with 9.

Dial the Local Phone Number

Enter the local phone number directly.

Example

Suppose you call a number from the United States in São Paulo, Brazil (area code 11 and local number 1234-5678). The dialing sequence would be:

  • International Access Code: 011
  • Country Code: 55
  • Area Code: 11
  • Local Number: 1234-5678

On your mobile keypad, you would dial 011-55-11-1234-5678.

Calling Brazil from a Landline

The process of calling from a landline is similar, though some nuances need attention.

Dial the International Access Code

This code is specific to the country you are calling from. For instance:

  • United States and Canada: 011
  • United Kingdom: 00
  • Japan: 010

Enter the Country Code for Brazil

Dial +55.

Dial the Area Code

Enter the appropriate area code for the region you are calling.

Dial the Local Phone Number

Enter the local phone number directly.

Example

If you are calling a number in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (area code 21 and local number 9876-5432) from the United Kingdom, the dialing sequence would be:

  • International Access Code: 00
  • Country Code: 55
  • Area Code: 21
  • Local Number: 9876-5432

On your landline phone, you would dial 00-55-21-9876-5432.

How Many Area Codes are there in Brazil?

There are numerous area codes for different cities in Brazil. You must enter the correct area code to route your call to the respective location.

Here’s a list of principal area codes in Brazil:

City Area Code City Area Code City Area Code
Ananindeua 91 Ilheus 73 Rio de Janeiro 21
Anapolis 62 Itaquaquecetuba 11 Salvador 71
Aparecida de Goiania 62 Joinville 47 Santa Maria 55
Aracaju 79 Joao Pessoa 83 Santarem 91
Bauru 14 Juiz de Fora 32 Santo Andre 11
Belem 91 Limeira 19 Santos 13
Belo Horizonte 31 Londrina 43 Sao Bernardo Campo 11
Boa Vista 95 Macapa 96 Sao Goncalo 21
Brasilia 61 Maceio 82 Sao Joao de Meriti 21
Campinas 19 Manaus 92 Sao Jose Campos 12
Campo Grande 67 Maringa 44 Sao Jose de Rio Preto 17
Canoas 51 Maua 11 Sao Luis 98
Carapicuiba 11 Montes Claros 38 Sao Paulo 11
Cariacica 27 Mogi das Cruzes 11 Sao Vicente 13
Caxias do Soul 54 Natal 84 Serra 27
Contagem 31 Niteroi 21 Sorocaba 15
Cuiaba 65 Nova Iguacu 21 Taubate 12
Curitiba 41 Olinda 81 Teresina 86
Diadema 11 Paulista 81 Uberlandia 34
Duque de Caxias 21 Pelotas 53 Uberaba 34
Feira de Santana 75 Petropolis 24 Varzea Grande 65
Florianopolis 48 Piracicaba 19 Vila Velha 27
Fortaleza 85 Porto Alegre 51 Vitoria 27
Foz do Iguacu 45 Porto Velho 69 Vitoria da Conquista 77
Franca 16 Recife 81 Volta Redonda 24
Goiania 62 Ribeirao Preto 16
Guarulhos 11 Rio Branco 68

Brazil Major Cities Phone Number Example

Here’s a list of Brazilian phone number formats for major cities:

Cities Brazil phone number format
São Paulo +55-11-1234 5678
Rio de Janeiro +55-21-1234 5678
Brasília +55-61-1234 5678
Belo Horizonte +55-31-1234 5678
Salvador +55-71-1234 5678

Best Times to Call Brazil

When calling Brazil, it’s essential to consider the time zone differences. Brazil operates on Brasília Time (BRT), which is UTC-3. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

Daylight Saving Time

Brazil does not observe daylight saving time, so the time difference remains consistent throughout the year.

Time Differences

The time difference may vary depending on your location. For example:

  • United States (Eastern Time): Brazil is 1-2 hours ahead
  • United Kingdom: Brazil is 3 hours behind during standard time
  • Australia (Sydney): Brazil is 13-14 hours behind

Always check the current local time in Brazil before placing a call to ensure you are calling at an appropriate hour.

Choosing the right time to call Brazil can increase the chances of connecting successfully and having productive conversations. Brazil is in the Brasília Time Zone (BRT), UTC -3 hours.

Here’s a breakdown of the best times to call Brazil from several common countries to maximize the likelihood of reaching your contacts during their standard business hours:

Call Brazil from the US

US TIME ZONE BRAZIL TIME ZONE (BRT) BEST TIME TO CALL (STANDARD TIME)
Eastern Time Zone (EST) Brasília Time Zone (BRT) 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Central Time Zone (CST) Brasília Time Zone (BRT) 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Mountain Time Zone (MST) Brasília Time Zone (BRT) 5:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Pacific Time Zone (PST) Brasília Time Zone (BRT) 4:00 AM – 9:00 AM

Call Brazil from the UK

UK TIME ZONE (GMT) BRAZIL TIME ZONE (BRT) BEST TIME TO CALL (STANDARD TIME)
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) Brasília Time Zone (BRT) 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Call Brazil from India

INDIA TIME ZONE (IST) BRAZIL TIME ZONE (BRT) BEST TIME TO CALL (STANDARD TIME)
Indian Standard Time (IST) Brasília Time Zone (BRT) 8:30 PM – 1:30 AM

Unique Prefix for Brazil Numbers

In Brazil, phone numbers are more than just a series of digits; they contain particular prefixes that provide valuable information about the number.

These prefixes identify specific services or networks associated with a phone number. Understanding these particular prefixes is essential for effectively navigating the Brazilian phone system.

When dialing a Brazil phone number, paying attention to these prefixes is essential, as they can affect how the call is routed and the available services.

Let’s explore some of the particular prefixes used in Brazil:

  • 0: “0” is Brazil’s most common unique prefix. It is used for dialing within the Brazilian telephone network. For example, when making a local call within a city or region, dial the prefix “0” followed by the respective area code.
  • 0800: Brazil’s prefix “0800” is reserved for toll-free numbers. These numbers allow callers to make free calls, and the recipient typically bears the charges for the call.
  • 0300: The prefix “0300” is used for service numbers in Brazil. Businesses and organizations often use these numbers to provide customer service, technical support, or other specialized services.
  • 0500: The prefix “0500” is used for premium rate numbers in Brazil. These numbers are typically associated with services that charge a higher rate per minute or call.
  • 9: The prefix “9” is used for mobile phone numbers in Brazil. It is followed by a network prefix that identifies the specific mobile network provider.

These are just a few examples of the special prefixes used in Brazil. The prefixes can vary depending on the type of service or network associated with the phone number.

PREFIX SERVICE/NETWORK TYPE
0 Brazilian Telephone Network
0800 Toll-Free Numbers
0300 Service Numbers
0500 Premium Rate Numbers
9 Mobile Phone Numbers

These particular prefixes play a crucial role in the Brazilian phone system, allowing for effective routing and identification of different services and networks.

By correctly understanding and utilizing these prefixes, you can confidently navigate the Brazilian phone system and ensure that your calls are directed to the correct destinations.

Key Facts to Know When Calling Brazil

Brazil is a vast and diverse country with several key facts to remember when making international calls. Here are some essential points:

  • Country Code: Brazil’s country code is +55, a crucial identifier for routing your calls correctly.
  • Time Zone: Brazil operates on Brasília Time (BRT), UTC-3.
  • Language: The official language is Portuguese, so knowing some basic phrases can be helpful.
  • Area Codes: Each region has its area code, such as 11 for São Paulo and 21 for Rio de Janeiro.
  • Mobile Phones: Mobile numbers typically start with 9, followed by the 8-digit number.
  • Emergency Numbers: The primary emergency number is 190 (police), but 192 (ambulance) and 193 (fire) are also vital.

General Tips for Making International Calls

Making international calls can be easy if you follow some best practices. Here are a few tips:

  • Check Time Zones: Be mindful of the time difference when calling during appropriate hours.
  • Use the Correct Format: Ensure you dial the international access code, Brazil’s country code, and the area code.
  • Be Aware of Costs: International calls can be costly, so check with your service provider for rates or consider using internet-based calling options.
  • Confirm Numbers: Double-check the phone number to avoid misdialing.
  • Prepare for Language Barriers: Knowing some basic Portuguese phrases or having a translator app can be helpful.

Why Did My Call to Brazil Not Work?

If you encounter difficulties when attempting to call Brazil, consider the following potential issues and their solutions:

Incorrect Dialing Sequence

Ensure you have dialed the correct international access code for your country, the country code for Brazil (+55), and the local number correctly formatted. This includes any necessary area codes.

Here’s how you can structure your call:

  1. International Access Code: This varies by country (e.g., 011 for the USA, 00 for the UK).
  2. Country Code for Brazil: +55
  3. Area Code: Typically, two digits for Brazilian cities (e.g., 11 for São Paulo, 21 for Rio de Janeiro).
  4. Local Number: Usually 8-9 digits.

For example, if you call São Paulo from the USA, the format should be 011 55 11 xxxx-xxxx.

Incorrect sequences can result in failed call attempts. Double-check the entire sequence and ensure you have all the correct digits.

Network Issues

Temporary network problems or congestion can affect connectivity. If your call doesn’t go through, wait a few minutes and try again. High call volumes during peak hours can cause congestion, so try calling during off-peak times for better connectivity.

Furthermore, check for ongoing maintenance or outages with your service provider that might affect international call capabilities.

Phone Plan Restrictions

Some phone plans may not include international calling in their standard package. Here’s what you should do:

  • Check with Your Service Provider: Verify if your plan allows international calls to Brazil and if there are any restrictions.
  • Upgrade Your Plan: You may need to add an international calling feature or upgrade to a plan that includes it.
  • Pay-per-Use: If you rarely make international calls, you might consider a pay-per-use option, which can be cheaper than upgrading your plan.

Incorrect Number

Double-check the number you are trying to call to ensure it is correct and properly formatted. Here are a few tips:

  • Verify Each Digit: A mistake in a single digit can prevent your call from connecting.
  • Confirm the Number is Active: Ensure the number is active and in service.
  • Use Online Directories: Use reputable online directories or contact the person by another means to confirm the correct number.

Service Provider Issues

Contact your service provider to ensure no blocks or issues prevent international calls. Here’s what to check:

  • Account Status: Ensure your account is in good standing and there are no outstanding payments.
  • International Calling Feature: Some providers require you to enable international calling separately.
  • Temporary Blocks: Sometimes, providers may place temporary blocks on international calls due to security concerns or policy changes.

By carefully checking these factors, you can troubleshoot and resolve most issues when attempting to call Brazil.

Do Phone Numbers in Brazil Have Voicemail?

Phone numbers in Libya typically come with voicemail services. Voicemail allows callers to leave messages when the recipient is unavailable.

Most mobile service providers in Libya offer voicemail services. When you call someone unavailable, you will be directed to their voicemail to leave a message.

Voicemail services are also available for landlines, although you may need to request this feature from your service provider.

Conclusion

To call Brazil effectively, use the country code +55 before the local number. Ensure you follow the correct dialing format, starting with your international access code, then +55, followed by the area code and the local number.

Brazilian phone numbers generally include voicemail services, with major mobile providers like Vivo, Claro, TIM, and Oi offering this feature. Landline providers such as NET, GVT, and Embratel also provide voicemail, usually upon request.

Understanding particular prefixes, such as 0800 for toll-free numbers and 9 for mobile phones, is essential. Additionally, consider the time zone difference, Brasília Time (BRT), to call during suitable hours.

If you encounter issues, check the dialing sequence, network status, and phone plan restrictions, and verify the number. By following these guidelines, you can ensure adequate and reliable communication with Brazil.