How to Call the United States from France: A Comprehensive Guide
Calling the United States from France might seem daunting at first, but with the right information and a few simple steps, it can be a straightforward process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the necessary codes to choosing the most cost-effective calling methods. Whether you’re calling for business, to connect with family and friends, or for any other reason, this article will provide you with all the information you need to make successful calls from France to the US.
## Understanding the Basics: Country Codes, Exit Codes, and Area Codes
Before you can dial any number, you need to understand the essential codes involved in international calling. These codes are crucial for routing your call correctly from France to the United States.
* **Exit Code (France):** The exit code, also known as the international access code, is the code you dial to indicate that you are making a call outside of France. The exit code for France is **00**. This tells the French telephone network that you are dialing an international number.
* **Country Code (United States):** The country code is a numerical prefix that identifies the destination country. The country code for the United States is **1**. This code tells the international telephone network that you are calling the United States.
* **Area Code (United States):** The United States is divided into numerous area codes, each covering a specific geographic region. These area codes are three-digit numbers that precede the local phone number. You need to know the correct area code for the specific location you are trying to reach in the US. Some common area codes include 212 (New York City), 310 (Los Angeles), 415 (San Francisco), and 312 (Chicago). You can easily find the area code for any location in the US with a quick online search.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Calling the US from France
Now that you understand the basic codes, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making a call from France to the United States:
1. **Dial the Exit Code:** Begin by dialing the exit code for France, which is **00**.
2. **Dial the Country Code:** Next, dial the country code for the United States, which is **1**.
3. **Dial the Area Code:** After the country code, enter the three-digit area code for the specific region you are calling in the US. For example, if you are calling New York City, you would dial 212.
4. **Dial the Local Number:** Finally, dial the seven-digit local phone number of the person or business you are trying to reach.
**Putting it all together, the complete dialing sequence would look like this:**
**00 + 1 + Area Code + Local Number**
**Example:** To call a number in New York City (area code 212) with the local number 555-1212, you would dial:
**00 1 212 555 1212**
## Different Methods for Calling the US from France
There are several different methods you can use to call the United States from France, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s an overview of the most common options:
### 1. Traditional Landline or Mobile Phone
* **How it works:** This is the most traditional method, using your landline or mobile phone to dial the international number directly. You dial the exit code, country code, area code, and local number as described above.
* **Pros:** Simple and straightforward; no special equipment or software required.
* **Cons:** Can be the most expensive option, especially for long calls; international calling rates from mobile phones can be very high.
* **Cost:** Typically charged per minute, with rates varying depending on your phone service provider. Check with your provider for their specific international calling rates to the US.
### 2. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services
VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, and Google Voice use the internet to make calls, often at significantly lower rates than traditional phone services.
* **Skype:** Skype allows you to call landlines and mobile phones worldwide at competitive rates. You can purchase Skype Credit or subscribe to a monthly plan for even lower rates.
* **How it works:** Download the Skype app or use the Skype website. Purchase Skype Credit or subscribe to a plan. Dial the international number using the Skype dialpad. Skype automatically handles the exit code and country code.
* **Pros:** Relatively inexpensive, especially for frequent international calls; good call quality; offers features like video calling and instant messaging.
* **Cons:** Requires a stable internet connection; call quality can be affected by internet speed; both parties need to have Skype installed for free Skype-to-Skype calls; calling landlines or mobile phones requires purchasing credits or a subscription.
* **WhatsApp:** WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that also allows you to make voice and video calls over the internet. Calls to other WhatsApp users are free, but you can’t directly call landlines or mobile phones.
* **How it works:** Download the WhatsApp app. Ensure the person you are calling also has WhatsApp installed. Select the contact and choose the voice or video call option.
* **Pros:** Free for calls to other WhatsApp users; easy to use; widely used internationally.
* **Cons:** Can only call other WhatsApp users; requires a stable internet connection; call quality can be affected by internet speed.
* **Viber:** Similar to WhatsApp, Viber allows you to make free voice and video calls to other Viber users. It also offers Viber Out, which allows you to call landlines and mobile phones at competitive rates.
* **How it works:** Download the Viber app. Ensure the person you are calling also has Viber installed, or purchase Viber Out credits to call landlines and mobile phones. Select the contact and choose the voice or video call option, or use the Viber Out dialpad to dial the international number.
* **Pros:** Free for calls to other Viber users; relatively inexpensive for calls to landlines and mobile phones using Viber Out; offers features like instant messaging.
* **Cons:** Requires a stable internet connection; call quality can be affected by internet speed; calling landlines or mobile phones requires purchasing Viber Out credits.
* **Google Voice:** Google Voice allows you to make calls over the internet using a Google account. It offers competitive rates for international calls and integrates seamlessly with other Google services.
* **How it works:** Sign up for a Google Voice account. Purchase Google Voice credits. Dial the international number using the Google Voice dialpad. Google Voice automatically handles the exit code and country code.
* **Pros:** Relatively inexpensive; integrates with other Google services; offers features like voicemail transcription.
* **Cons:** Requires a stable internet connection; call quality can be affected by internet speed; requires a Google account; not available in all countries.
### 3. Mobile Apps with International Calling Features
Many mobile apps offer international calling features, often at lower rates than traditional phone services. These apps typically use VoIP technology to make calls over the internet.
* **Examples:** Rebtel, Vonage Mobile, and other similar apps.
* **How they work:** Download the app. Create an account. Purchase credits or subscribe to a plan. Dial the international number using the app’s dialpad.
* **Pros:** Often cheaper than traditional phone services; user-friendly interfaces; may offer additional features like call recording and call forwarding.
* **Cons:** Requires a stable internet connection; call quality can be affected by internet speed; may require a subscription or purchase of credits.
### 4. Calling Cards
Calling cards are prepaid cards that allow you to make international calls at a fixed rate per minute. You typically dial a toll-free access number, enter a PIN, and then dial the international number.
* **How they work:** Purchase a calling card. Dial the access number on the card. Enter the PIN when prompted. Dial the international number (including the exit code, country code, area code, and local number).
* **Pros:** Can be cheaper than traditional phone services, especially for longer calls; no need for a subscription or internet connection.
* **Cons:** Can be confusing to use; rates may vary depending on the card and the destination; connection fees and maintenance fees may apply; call quality may be lower than other methods.
## Tips for Saving Money on International Calls
Calling the United States from France can be expensive, but there are several ways to reduce your costs:
* **Use VoIP services:** VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, and Google Voice are generally much cheaper than traditional phone services.
* **Take advantage of free calling hours:** Some phone service providers offer free or discounted international calling during certain hours. Check with your provider to see if they offer any such promotions.
* **Purchase an international calling plan:** If you make frequent international calls, consider purchasing an international calling plan from your phone service provider. These plans typically offer lower rates than pay-as-you-go options.
* **Use Wi-Fi whenever possible:** When using VoIP services or mobile apps, connect to Wi-Fi to avoid using your mobile data. This can save you money on data charges.
* **Compare rates from different providers:** Before making an international call, compare rates from different phone service providers and VoIP services to find the best deal.
* **Be mindful of call duration:** Keep your calls as short as possible to minimize costs. Plan what you want to say before you call to avoid rambling.
* **Consider using a callback service:** Callback services allow you to avoid international calling charges by having the service call you back and connect you to the destination number. However, be sure to research the service thoroughly to ensure its reliability and security.
## Troubleshooting Common Calling Problems
Even with the right information, you may encounter problems when calling the United States from France. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
* **Call not going through:**
* **Check the dialing sequence:** Make sure you are dialing the correct exit code, country code, area code, and local number.
* **Verify the phone number:** Double-check the phone number you are dialing to ensure it is correct.
* **Check for blocked numbers:** Your phone service provider may have blocked certain international numbers. Contact your provider to unblock the number.
* **Try a different calling method:** If you are using a landline or mobile phone, try using a VoIP service or mobile app instead.
* **Poor call quality:**
* **Check your internet connection:** If you are using a VoIP service or mobile app, make sure you have a stable and strong internet connection. Try moving closer to your Wi-Fi router or switching to a different network.
* **Close other applications:** Close any other applications that are using your internet connection to free up bandwidth.
* **Use a headset or microphone:** Using a headset or microphone can improve call quality by reducing background noise.
* **Try a different VoIP service:** If you are experiencing poor call quality with one VoIP service, try using a different service instead.
* **High calling costs:**
* **Use VoIP services:** VoIP services are generally much cheaper than traditional phone services.
* **Purchase an international calling plan:** If you make frequent international calls, consider purchasing an international calling plan from your phone service provider.
* **Use Wi-Fi whenever possible:** When using VoIP services or mobile apps, connect to Wi-Fi to avoid using your mobile data.
## Alternative Communication Methods
While calling is a direct way to connect, numerous alternative communication methods offer convenient and cost-effective ways to stay in touch with people in the United States from France. Consider these options:
* **Email:** A classic and reliable method for sending messages, documents, and photos. Email is asynchronous, allowing recipients to respond at their convenience.
* **Messaging Apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal):** These apps provide text messaging, voice calls, and video calls over the internet, often with end-to-end encryption for enhanced security. They’re excellent for quick updates and staying in touch with friends and family.
* **Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter):** Social media platforms offer various ways to connect, from posting updates and sharing photos to sending direct messages. They’re great for staying updated on what’s happening in people’s lives and engaging in group conversations.
* **Video Conferencing (Zoom, Google Meet):** Ideal for virtual meetings, presentations, and connecting with multiple people simultaneously. Video conferencing platforms offer features like screen sharing and recording, making them suitable for both personal and professional use.
## Conclusion
Calling the United States from France doesn’t have to be a confusing or expensive process. By understanding the necessary codes, exploring different calling methods, and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can easily stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues in the US. Whether you choose to use a traditional phone line, a VoIP service, or a mobile app, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and budget. Remember to compare rates, use Wi-Fi whenever possible, and be mindful of call duration to save money on international calls. With a little planning and preparation, you can make successful and affordable calls from France to the United States.
This guide has provided you with the tools and knowledge you need to confidently make international calls. Happy calling!