How to Call France from the US?

Are you trying to call France from the US? We understand the importance of keeping in touch with family and clients abroad.

However, we acknowledge that beginners may find it challenging to figure out how to make a call to another country. 🤔

In this blog, we’ll provide you with a detailed guide on how to call France from the US. We will cover everything from the international dialing format to cost-effective methods to ring phones in France from the USA.

Let’s get started 👇

What is an international call to France?

An international call to France is a phone call made to French mobile phones, landlines, or toll-free numbers from outside France.  

Let’s take an example, suppose you are in the USA, India, Canada, China, or any other country other than France, and you make phone calls to your friends, family members, or clients residing in France then this is called an international call to France. 📞

To make an international call to France, you need to make sure that your phone system allows a call to France. If the service is unavailable, you should contact your service provider to enable this feature on your phone system. Also, know about the international calling plan if available.

How to call France from the US?

To Call France from the US, dial the exit code of the US (011), France country code (33), followed by the area code (if you are dialing a local number), and then the 7 to 10-digit phone number.

Consider the following five simple steps to call in France landline or cell phone from the US:

Step 1: Dial 011, the USA exit code.

Step 2: Dial 33, country code of France.

Step 3: Dial the area code of the location where the phone number is located.

Step 4: Dial the correct 7-10-digit phone number.

Step 5: Click on the dial button on your cell phone or landline to initiate a call.

👊 For example,

To call France from the US, dial:

• 011-33-Area code-landline number (For France landline number)
• 011-33-10 digit mobile number (For France mobile phone number)
• 011-33-toll-free code-toll-free number (For France toll-free number) 

1. How to dial France landline from the USA? 

To dial the France landline number from the US, dial Exit Code (011) – Country Code (33) – Area Code – Landline Number. Follow the below four detailed steps to call France landline from the USA:

Step 1: Dial the exit code of the USA, i.e., 011.

Step 2: Dial France country code, i.e., 33.

Step 3: Dial the area code for the particular region in France.

Step 4: Dial the France landline phone number.

🤗 The correct France phone number format to dial a French landline number from the USA looks like this: 011 33 1 123456789

Where,

• 011 is the US exit code
• 33 is France country code/ France calling code    
• 1 is the area code of Paris
• 123456789 is the France landline number

2. How do I call a French mobile number from the US?

To call a French mobile number from the US, dial Exit Code (011) – Country Code (33) – 10 digit Mobile Number. Follow the below three detailed steps to call a French mobile number from the USA:

Step 1: Dial the exit code of the USA, i.e., 011.

Step 2: Dial France country code, i.e., 33.

Step 3: Dial the France mobile phone number.

🤗 The correct France phone number format to place a call to a French mobile number from the USA looks like this: 011 33 12345 678901

Where,

• 011 is the US exit code
• 33 is France country code/ France calling code    
• 1234567890 is the France mobile number

3. How do I call a Toll-free number in France?

To call a toll-free number in France from the US, dial Exit Code (011) – Country Code (33) – Toll-free code- Toll-free Number. Follow the below four detailed steps to call France toll-free number from the USA:

Step 1: Dial the exit code of the USA, i.e., 011.

Step 2: Dial France country code, i.e., 33.

Step 3: Dial the toll-free code.

Step 4: Dial France toll-free phone number.

🤗 The correct France phone number format to place a call to a French toll-free number from the USA looks like this: 011 33 0800 234 567

Where,

• 011 is the US exit code
• 33 is France country code/ France calling code
• 0800 is the toll-free code 
• 234567 is the France toll-free number

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What are the things to consider before dialing France from the US?

Calling France from the US isn’t as easy as it seems. The process can be nerve-racking if you don’t follow certain factors and measures while placing a call from be it US, Canada, or any other country to France. To help you, we’ve compiled a list of five things that you must consider before dialing from the US to France number 💭

1. Types of numbers in France

You need to be familiar with the types of phone numbers in France: landline, mobile, and toll-free. Each number has ten digits. When dialing these numbers internationally, you have to strictly follow the correct phone number format, that is, writing the exit code of the respective country, France country code, area code (in case of local number), removing trunk code (in case of mobile number), and dialing a correct remaining phone number.

More than this, you should also be familiar with the emergency numbers in France. Emergency numbers in France include 17 (police), 18 (fire brigade), and 15 (medical service). These emergency numbers let you receive emergency services free of charge 24/7.

2. Dialing code

When you make international calls, you must always dial the dialing code of the specific country you are trying to connect to before dialing the actual phone number. The dialing codes help telephone companies regulate international calls by indicating the country the call is going to.

In the same way, when calling Fance from the US, you must also enter the France calling code. The France phone country code is “33”. 

3. Exit code

The exit code is also a country-specific numerical code that is entered before the dialing code. The exit code tells your telecom network you are making an international call.  It is also known as the “International access code.” 

When calling from the US to France, you must dial the exit code of the USA, which is “011”.  If you dial the US exit code (011) before initiating a call, the telecom will know you’re calling from outside the country.

4. France area codes

After the exit and dialing code, you must also know about the France area codes before dialing France from the US. Every city around the globe has its unique area code, which can range from two to five digits. The area code determines the region or city where the phone number belongs to. 

If you want to make an international call from the US to a specific city in France, you must dial the area code of the respective city.

The area code of the popular cities in France is listed below:

Location	Area code
Bordeaux	5
Boulogne	3
Calais	3
Cannes	4
Cherbourg	2
Corsica	495
Dijon	3
Le Havre	2
Lille	3
Lyon	4
Monaco	4
Nantes	2
Orleans	2
Paris	1
Rouen	2
Strasbourg	3
St. Etienne	4
Toulon	4

5. Time zone differences

Another thing you need to consider is the time zones of the US and France. The USA and France are thousands of miles apart, so their time zones are vastly different.  The USA has six time zones, while France has twelve time zones. However, metropolitan France uses Central European Time (GMT+1) as its standard time. 🕥

Here is the list of time zones used in the USA compared with France’s Central European Time. 

1. Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST): Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST) is behind France (CET) by 9 hours.
2. Alaska Standard Time (AKST): Alaska Standard Time (AKST) is behind France (CET) by 7 hours. 
3. Pacific Standard Time (PST):  Pacific Standard Time (PST) is behind France (CET) by 6 hours.
4. Mountain Standard Time (MST): Mountain Standard Time (MST) is behind France (CET) by 5 hours.
5. Central Standard Time (CST):  Central Standard Time (CST) is behind France (CET) by 4 hours.
6. Eastern Standard Time (EST): Eastern Standard Time (EST) is behind France (CET) by 3 hours.

It is helpful to understand these time differences so you can make calls during appropriate business hours. By doing so, you will have a greater chance of reaching someone. If you are making business calls, the best time to call would be from 9 am to 5 pm CST, which is the normal European business hours. Likewise, if you are calling your friends or family members, the best time would be after 5 pm, as they would have finished their office work.       

6. International calling rates 

You should also be mindful of the international calling rates. When calling through an American landline and mobile phone number to a French phone number, the international calling rates can be costly as high roaming charges are imposed. Hence, as an alternative, consider using calling cards, VoIP apps, and virtual French numbers from KrispCall to save yourself from high roaming charges.  

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How much does it cost to call France from the US?

As the phone calls from the USA to France involve international calls, the calls to France can be expensive as international calling rates are applied. Generally, calls from the US to France start from around $4 per minute if you are using traditional methods like using American local and mobile phone numbers. (depends upon carrier provider)

However, if you opt to use advanced alternative methods like VoIP apps, cloud telephony, and virtual France phone numbers, you can make a call for free. 

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How do you reduce the calling cost to France?

The most common reason people feel uncomfortable making international calls to France is the high call rates. But with some strategies and techniques, these call costs can be significantly reduced. 

The number one strategy is using a VoIP phone system.  The VoIP phone system uses an internet connection to make and receive calls, bypassing the need to pay international roaming charges. 

Also, there is no need to set up extensive hardware devices to operate it.  Now, you must be wondering where to get a VoIP phone system. Your ultimate solution is KrispCall. Krispcall is famous for offering lower call rates, free international calls, and unlimited plans.

😃 Other than this, there are some other ways to reduce the call cost to France, which are;

• Take advantage of the international calling plan offered by your telecom provider.
• Consider making calls during off-peak hours (evening, weekend, and holiday), as call rates are lower during these periods. 
• Use a virtual phone number.

✅ Check Out: How to Call Europe from the USA

3 Alternative ways to make an international call to France

The three alternative ways to make international calls to France without going bankrupt include:

1.  Using virtual France numbers

One of the cheapest and most reliable alternative methods to make international calls to France is using France virtual numbers. Virtual phone numbers use an internet connection to make and receive calls from anywhere and on any device. 

Also, with a virtual phone number with a specific area code in France, you can maintain a local presence for your business in France without physically establishing your company there.

2. Using VoIP apps/services like WhatsApp/Messenger

You can use VoIP apps like WhatsApp and Messenger to call France from the US. VoIP apps leverage internet connection to facilitate calls on both ends. This alternative is best for people wishing to connect with friends and family. 

To call via these apps, both caller and receiver must create an account on these platforms and add each other to their friend list. Only after fulfilling these steps can they call each other for free.

3. Using calling cards

Another alternative to calling France is using calling cards. You can purchase international calls from service providers like Rebtel and TalkU or department stores. Rebtel offers unlimited calls to France at $5 per month.

Similarly, you need to activate your calling cards before initiating a call. To activate, you need to input the card’s PIN. 

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Challenges while calling France from the US

Calling France from the US isn’t just about talking out your phone, dialing numbers, and clicking the dial button. You will face several challenges during the process.

💪Some challenges faced while calling Frace from the US include:

• Expensive phone rates: Traditional phone carriers often charge high call fees, making frequent communication costly. To avoid these rates, consider using affordable options, like VoIP services, international calling plans, or virtual numbers that offer reduced rates.

• Language barriers: If you’re not fluent in French, communicating over the phone with someone in France can be challenging. To tackle this issue, you can rely on translation apps. You can also opt for VoIP platforms that have built-in translation features to help facilitate communication during calls.

• Time differences: The significant time gap between the US and France can create difficulties when it comes to finding calling hours and coordinating schedules. To overcome this challenge, you can work together with the person you’re calling to find flexible hours to call or utilize scheduling tools to avoid inconvenient hours.

• Poor call quality: International calls sometimes suffer from bad call quality, leading to frustrating and unclear conversations. Network problems or infrastructure limitations could cause this issue. To improve call quality and clarity, choose reputable VoIP services or even consider using calling cards. Regularly updating your software and checking for network issues can also contribute to better call experiences.

👀 Have a look at: How to Call International from the USA

Business phone call etiquette in France: Dos and Don’ts

Here are some business phone call etiquette to follow while making calls in France:

✔️ Dos:

• Greet politely: Use “Bonjour Monsieur/Madame” to say “Hello” and introduce yourself clearly.
• Speak slowly and clearly: Speak slowly to let others understand you.
• Be formal: Address the receiver on the other end by their last name and title.
• Respect the time difference: Schedule calls within their business hours (9 AM – 5 PM CET).
• Confirm your understanding: In case of confusion, ask questions to clarify.

❌ Don’ts:

• Don’t call during lunch hours or personal time: Respect their breaks and avoid interrupting during their break time.
• Don’t speak too loudly or rapidly: Maintain a professional and polite tone.
• Don’t use slang or informal language: Stick to formal expressions and avoid idioms.
• Don’t interrupt or talk over them: Allow them to finish their thoughts before responding.
• Don’t express impatience or frustration: Remain calm and professional throughout the call.

How to make business calls to France from the US using KrispCall?

If you want to call Israel from Canada using VoIP and cloud telephony, KrispCall should be your first choice. Here’s why;

• You will get the best value for your money with this KrispCall.
• It offers excellent sound quality, eliminating background noises and call lagging.
• It offers a variety of pricing and plans suitable for businesses of all sizes.
• It provides several sophisticated features that help streamline your business communication, like call monitoring, unified call box, call recording, call forwarding, voice mail, number porting, etc.
• Setting up KrispCall’s cloud telephony is easy.

👉 Want to make business calls to France from the US using KrispCall? Follow these steps:

Step 1: Create an account on KrispCall and login.

Step 2: Choose a France number from the list.

Step 3: Add a number to the cart, make a payment, and buy it.

Step 4: Start calling your French clients and partners from the USA.

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Final words  

Calling France from the US isn’t difficult if you know the right techniques and ways. To avoid any issues arising during the process, familiarize yourself with the US exit code, France country code, France area code, and international dialing format. 

Moreover, if you want to adopt the modern and reliable way of making international calls to France from the United States, go for KrispCall. With KrispCall, you get excellent call quality and low rates for international calls with advanced VoIP features. 

FAQ

Are phone calls from France to the US expensive?

Yes. Phone calls from France to the US are expensive if you use traditional methods like local landlines and mobile phone numbers. However, by using modern solutions like virtual French numbers, VoIP apps, and calling cards, one can significantly reduce calling costs.

Which country code is 33?

The country code 33 is for France. Dialing country code 33 is necessary when calling French landlines and mobile phone numbers from another country other than France.

How many digits is France Phone Number?

France phone number has 10 digits, where the first 1 to 3 digits denote a geographic area code, and the remaining 7 to 9 digits are actual phone numbers.

An example of France’s phone number is 01 1234 5678 (01 is the area code of Paris).

How do I text France from the US?

You can text France from the US simply using your mobile phone number. Follow these steps to compose a new text to send to France’s mobile phone number:

1. Add the France phone number to your contact list by following the international dialing format, i.e., dialing the US exit code first, then the country code of Mexico, and the remaining 10-digit mobile number.
2. Go to your mobile phone’s “Message” option.
3. Select the France mobile number.
4. Type the message you want to send.
5. Click the “Send” button.

How to make a call in France from a US cell phone?

Follow these steps to make a call in France from a US cell phone:

1. Dial 011, the USA exit code.
2. Dial 33, France phone country code.
3. Dial the area code of the location where the phone number is located.
4. Dial the correct 7-10-digit phone number.
5. Click on the dial button on your cell phone or landline to initiate a call.

What is the cheapest way to call France from the US?

The cheapest way to call France from the US would be using VoIP apps like WhatsApp and Messenger, French virtual phone numbers, or calling cards.