How to Call Costa Rica From US?

Are you planning to make a call to Costa Rica from US but are confused about dialing codes, exit codes, and the international calling rates? 

Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! 

📲 Calling overseas can be confusing and expensive, but with the right knowledge and resources, you can make international calls to Costa Rica quickly and easily. 

In this blog, we’ll discuss how to call Costa Rica from US step-by-step using various ways plus alternate cheap calling methods included.

So, Let’s get started!

What is an International Call to Costa Rica?

International calls to Costa Rica, is a phone calls that are made from other countries to Costa Rican landlines, mobile devices, and toll-free numbers. 

When calling Costa Rica from overseas, you must also follow a special format, such as the country code, area code, mobile number prefix, etc. Below, we will discuss dialing formats in more detail

⚠ REMEMBER: Make sure you have international calling enabled on your mobile phone when calling Costa Rica. If this feature is not enabled, contact your service provider.

How to Call Costa Rica from US? 

To dial a Costa Rica cell phone number from the US, you must first dial the US exit code (011), followed by the Costa Rica country code (506), and then the 8-digit phone number. 

Here are the steps you need to follow to make a call from Costa Rica from America. 

1. Dial the US exit code, which is 011.
2. Dial the country code for Costa Rica, which is 506.
3. Dial the 8-digit phone number, which can start with any number for mobile phones or landlines.
4. Call the given number. 

Example: To Call the University of Costa Rica located in San Pedro Montes de Oca  with the number 2511 4000, the complete dial string would be: 011 +506 2511 4000

👉 Calling Costa Rica from the USA requires this format: 011-506-1234-4567 

Where,

• 011 is the US exit code
• 506 is the dialing code of Costa Rica
• 1234-4567 is the subscriber’s number

If you are having trouble connecting, you can try substituting the (‘+’) plus sign for the US exit code.

 🗣 Additional tips:

1. Double-check the number before dialing.
2. Consult your phone carrier for specific instructions.

1. How to call the Costa Rica landline number from the US?

To call the Costa Rica landline number from the US, dial the US exit code (011), Country Code (506), And landline Number. 

Below are the detailed steps to call the Costa Rican Landline number: 

1. Dial the US exit code, which is 011.
2. Dial the country code for Costa Rica, which is 506.
3. Dial the 8-digit phone number, which can start with any number for landlines.

💡 Note: Costa Rica has a closed number plan type, so there is no need for an area code. 

👉 Calling Costa Rica landlines from the USA requires this format: 011-506-1254-8960  

Where,

• 011 is the US exit code,
• 506 is the dialing code of Costa Rica,
• And 1254 8960 is the dummy subscriber number. 

2. How to call a Costa Rica mobile number from the US? 

To call the Costa Rica mobile number from the US, dial Exit Code (011) – Country Code (506) – Mobile Phone Number.

 Here are the detailed steps to call Costa Rica’s mobile number from the United States: 

1. Dial the exit code of the US, i.e., 011.
2. Dial Costa Rica country code 506.
3. Dial the 8-digit mobile phone number.

👉 Calling a Costa Rica Mobile Number from the USA requires this format: 011-506-1236-5478

Where,

• 11 is the US exit code,
• 506 is Costa Rica’s country code,
• 1236 5478 is the dummy mobile phone number.

👀 Take a look at: How to call UK from USA

3. How to call Costa Rica’s toll-free number from the US?

To call a Costa Rica toll-free number from the US, you should dial US exit code (011) – Costa Rica Country Code (506)-Toll-free prefix (800)- and the remaining 6 digit numbers :

Here are the steps to call Costa Rica’s toll-free number from the America:

1. Dial the US exit code, which is 011.
2. Dial the country code for Costa Rica, which is 506.
3. Dial the toll-free code (800), followed by a 6-digit subscriber number.

👉 Calling a Costa Rica Toll-free Number from the USA requires this format: 011-506-800-789654

Where, 

• 11 is the US exit code,
• 506 country code for Costa
• 800 is the toll-free prefix
• 789654 is the remaining number

⚠  It’s important to note that toll-free numbers in Costa Rica have a specific format, and dialing these numbers from the US follows the standard international dialing procedure.

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What are the things that need to know before dialing Costa Rica from the US?

You must consider a lot of things before even beginning a cell phones call to Costa Rica if you live in the US. Here are the things we’ve sorted for you:

1. Dialing Codes 

You must enter the appropriate Dialing Code for the country before entering the number when making an international call. Dialing codes are country-specific standards that make international calls easier to regulate. 

When calling Costa Rica from the United States, you must enter the Costa Rican dialing code +506. For your call to be routed correctly, your telecom network needs this information. 

2. Types of Numbers in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has four types of numbers: mobile, landline, toll-free, and emergency. Mobile phones number have four to nine digits, while landline numbers have eight digits. Toll-free numbers start with 800, and 911 is for emergencies. Below is a short explanation; 

1. Mobile Numbers: Tied to a specific network provider, a Costa Rica mobile number format is (+506) 4XXX XXXX and mobile numbers can begin with any digit between 4 and 9.

2. Landline Numbers: Wired telephone system for specific areas and locations. However, in Costa Rica, they have a closed number plan type and don’t have a specific area code.

3. Toll-free Numbers: A telephone number that does not charge callers to make calls while owners take care of the bills. The toll-free code of Costa Rica is 800. 

4. Emergency Numbers: The emergency number of Costa Rica is 911, which is the same as the US. 

3. Exit Code

The exit code informs your telecom network that you are placing an international call and that it should route your call to the desired country based on the dialing code.

You call a destination by dialing “011” before the country code (in this case, Costa Rica). If you follow this sequence, your call will be routed correctly through the international telephone network.

4. Time Zone Difference 

Costa Rica is in the Central Standard Time (CST) zone, which is UTC-6 hours. There are multiple time zones in the United States, but to provide a general comparison, the U.S. center is typically 1 hour behind Costa Rica. 

The following are some specific time differences between Costa Rica and US cities:

• Costa Rica is 1 hour behind New York.
• Costa Rica is 2 hours behind Los Angeles.
• Costa Rica is 1 hour ahead of Chicago.

Since there are multiple time zones in the United States, the differences may vary depending on the specific location. 

5. International Calling Cost

International calls may be charged differently by your phone provider and network service provider. For international calls to Costa Rica, be sure to check their specific rates.

Furthermore, different rates apply to landlines and mobile phones. Compare rates between different carriers and call methods to find the best deal.

Country	Average Cost per Minute
Italy	1-49 cents per minute.
Israel	$0.08 to $0.10 per minute
United Kingdom	$1.5 per minute.
India	$0.50 per minute
Mexico	N/A

👉 NOTE: Calling rates depend upon the carrier provider. 

Also check out👉: How to Make a Private Call With Your Number on Any Phone

How much does it cost to call Costa Rica from the US? 

The cost of calling Costa Rica from the US can range from $0.05 to $3.00 per minute, depending on the service provider and the calling plan. For example, some providers offer rates as low as $0.05 per minute, while others may charge up to $3.00 per minute

The cost of calling Costa Rica from the US can vary depending on the service provider and the specific calling plan. With KrispCall, you can call Costa Rica at an affordable rate of $0.01-0.11 per minute or $0.60 per hour.

What is the best time to call Costa Rica from US?

The best time to call Costa Rica from the US is between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM local time in Costa Rica, which corresponds to 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM in the US. This time frame is suitable for both personal and business calls, as it covers the majority of the workday in Costa Rica and ensures a higher likelihood of reaching the intended recipient. 

If you have friends and family in Costa Rica, it is ideal to call them after 8 PM after all their working hours are over. This means it will be 9 PM in the US.

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What are the Alternative Ways to Make International Calls to Costa Rica from the US? 

 Here are some of the alternative ways to make international calls to Costa Rica from the US:

1.  Using Virtual Numbers 

A virtual number is a mobile phones number that works over the Internet without requiring a SIM card. You can make outgoing calls and receive incoming calls from anywhere and on any device. 

You can use a Costa Rica virtual number if you frequently call Costa Rica and don’t want to buy a Costa Rica SIM card every time.

💥  Get a Virtual Number Today! 

2. Using VoIP Apps 

You can make international calls to Costa Rica using VoIP apps such as Viber, WhatsApp, and Messenger. With these applications, you can initiate free voice and video calls from any device, anywhere. 

That’s right, you read that right. There are no fees associated with calling using apps like Viber, WhatsApp, or Messenger. Each caller and receiver need to have the apps installed and an account set up before using this service.

3. Using Calling Cards

Calling cards, also known as phone cards, telephone cards, or international calling cards, can be used to make international calls. Cell phones and landlines can be used to make long-distance, domestic, and international calls with prepaid calling cards.

 You can utilize calling cards by following these steps:

1. Get a calling card from a store or online.
2. Dial the designated access number specified on the card.
3. Set up a Personal Identification Number (PIN).
4. Dial the international number you would like to reach.
5. Stay informed about your remaining balance.

4. Using International Phone Plan

You can also set up an international phone plan with your cell phone provider to make international calls to Costa Rica. Some providers offer flat monthly rates for unlimited international calling to Costa Rica. 

For example, Verizon offers a TravelPass that costs $5 per day in Canada and Mexico but $10 per day elsewhere. The cost of calling the US from Costa Rica is $10 per day with an international plan

International phone plans allow you to keep your existing phone number, which can be more convenient for personal and business contacts.

Make sure your plan includes international calling to Costa Rica and understand the rates and fees associated with it by contacting your provider. 

Also Read👉: How to Call Germany from the USA

Challenges while calling Costa Rica from the USA 

You will face a few unique and hard-to-overcome challenges when making phone calls to Costa Rica from the USA. The most common ones are:

• Dialing Format: The challenge when calling Costa Rica from the US is the dialing format. You need to dial the US exit code (011), country code (+506), and 8-digit number.

• Connection Issues: When calling a Costa Rica phone number from the USA, you may encounter connection issues. If your cellular network coverage is low, this issue occurs.

• Cost and Calling Plans: As international calls can be expensive, it’s important to know your phone provider’s rates and use calling apps or services with competitive rates

• Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken across the globe, Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica, making communication difficult.

👀 Check out our other international calling guides: How to Call Brazil From the USA

Business Phone Call Etiquette in Costa Rica: Dos and Don’ts

As you now know, making a phone call to Costa Rica can present some challenges. Let’s learn some customs you should observe when doing so.

✅ Do’s

• Warm Greeting: Initiate the call with a friendly greeting, utilizing phrases like “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes.” Incorporate a personal touch by using local greetings such as “Pura Vida” for a positive impression. Address individuals by their titles and last names unless advised otherwise.

• Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: While English is often understood, making an effort to learn basic Spanish phrases demonstrates respect for the local culture and your professional relationship.

• Speak Clearly and Be Concise: Costa Ricans appreciate clear and concise communication. To enhance understanding, avoid speaking too rapidly and be mindful of your pace.

❎ Don’ts

• Immediate Business Talk: Avoid jumping straight into business matters after formal greetings. Inquire about the receiver’s day and well-being to establish a more personal connection.

• Don’t Assume English Fluency: Despite English being prevalent, refrain from making assumptions and be adaptable in tone and speed. Consider using translation services if needed.

• Avoid Overdirectness: Be efficient and culturally sensitive, incorporating appropriate greetings without being overly direct. Maintain a balance between professionalism and cultural nuances.

Final Words

Calling Costa Rica from the US involves only a few steps. You can follow those steps along with this article, keeping in mind the important things to consider, such as time zone difference, area code, international calling rates, and the must, Costa Rica country code 506.

Ensure that you choose a reliable and affordable network provider if you are making international calls to Costa Rica. You can also use alternative methods to make cheap calls using virtual numbers, cloud phones, calling cards, and VoIP apps.

FAQs

How to Call Costa Rica from US for free of cost?

To call Costa Rica from US for free of cost, use the following methods:

1. Use VoIP apps like KrispCall
2. Use Viber, WhatsApp, Viber, Messenger, and other calling Apps. 
3. Make use of Wifi Calling

How to dial directly to Costa Rica from the United States?

To make a direct call from the United States to Costa Rica, you should dial 011, then 506, and the remaining number.

How to Call Costa Rica from the US on WhatsApp?

To Call Costa Rica from the US on WhatsApp, follow the steps

1. Open  the WhatsApp application 
2. Tap on the Chat Icon
3. Select the Chat for the contact in Costa Rica, and then 
4. Press the Phone Icon to initiate the call using WhatsApp’s internet-based calling feature.

You must have a stable internet connection, and the recipient must be registered with WhatsApp for the call to be successful.

Can I use a United States cell phone to call Costa Rica?

Yes, United States cell phone users can call Costa Rica by dialing the international code (011), followed by the country code (506), and the subscriber’s phone number. From a US cell phone, using WhatsApp or KrispCall offering competitive international rates is a cost-effective way to reach Costa Rica.