Making a call to Portugal from the USA requires a specific sequence of numbers to bypass international barriers. You must dial the exit code for the United States, which is 011, followed by the country code for Portugal, which is 351, and then the local number. This structure is essential for the call to route correctly across the Atlantic, whether you are using a landline or a mobile device.
Understanding the US Exit Code
The first step in any international call is the exit code, which signals to your carrier that the call is leaving the country. In the United States, this code is 011. Without dialing this three-digit sequence first, your call to Portugal will not connect internationally and may result in an error message or a failed connection.
The Role of Portugal's Country Code
Following the exit code, you must enter Portugal's country code, which is 351. This code directs the call to the European nation. Whether you are calling a landline in Lisbon or a mobile number in Porto, this code is a mandatory prefix that ensures the telecommunications network identifies the destination country accurately.
Dialing Formats for Different Devices
The method for calling Portugal from the USA varies slightly depending on the device you are using. Mobile phones often handle international prefixes differently than landlines, and VoIP services like Skype or WhatsApp operate under their own rules. Understanding these distinctions can save you time and prevent dialing errors.
Area Codes and Local Numbers
Portugal uses area codes that range from two to three digits, such as 21 for Lisbon or 22 for Porto. When calling from the USA, you typically include this area code after the country code. For mobile numbers, the format is usually 9 followed by eight digits, which does not require an additional area code prefix.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people new to international dialing forget to press the "+" symbol or misdial the exit code. Others mistakenly add a "1" before the US exit code, which is incorrect. Double-checking the entire sequence—011, the country code, the area code, and the local number—ensures a clear connection.
Cost-Effective Communication Solutions
Traditional carrier rates for calling Portugal can be expensive, so many people turn to digital alternatives. Apps like WhatsApp, Facetime Audio, and Skype utilize internet connections to bypass standard telephony fees. This method is often free or significantly cheaper than using your cellular plan.
Troubleshooting Failed Connections
If your call does not connect, verify that you have not accidentally included a leading zero from the Portuguese number. US callers should only use the digits provided by the contact, applying the 011 and 351 prefixes manually. If issues persist, contacting your service provider to verify international calling permissions may resolve the problem.
