Calling Canada from the US: Country Codes, Expenses & Free Alternatives

Looking to connect with our friends, family, colleagues, or business partners in Canada from the United States? Then this article is a must-read for you. There are numerous options available for high-definition voice calling and texting. Below, we present a concise guide on how to call Canada from the USA.

Canada Dialing Instructions from the US

Calling Canada from the United States shouldn't be daunting or overwhelming. It's simply an international call like any other. However, there are a few factors to consider when making calls from the US to Canada.

The correct equation to dial Canada from the US involves inputting the following digits:

"Country code local codes number"

Nevertheless, if you're using a mobile or landline number to call Canada from the US, you'll need to follow a different approach. Here's how:

How to Call Canada from the United States

Dialing a Landline Number:

1 - Area Code - Land Phone Number

Dialing a Mobile Number:

011 - 1 - 10-Digit Mobile Number

Calling landlines and cell phones in Canada from US-based cell phones and landlines is relatively similar.

How to Call Canada from a US Cell Phone

Canada is located in North America and falls under the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). Since all countries within the NANP share the same country code, "1," you can call Canada from the US by dialing 1 before the desired number.

To call a NANP country, follow the primary method: 1 Area code (3 digits) TEL # (7 digits), where:

• 1 – Represents the ISD Code/Country Code of Canada
• 3-Digit Area Code – When calling Canada from the US, you must be familiar with the area codes for the desired number. Canada has 26 area codes, so make sure to identify and dial the appropriate area code before the seven-digit number.

Refer to the table below to find the required area codes for Canada.

When calling Canadian cell phones from the US, you should follow this procedure:

• The Exit Code: 011
• 1 – Represents the ISD Code/Country Code of Canada
• 7-Digit Canadian Mobile Number

Calling landlines and cell phones in Canada from US-based cell phones and landlines is relatively similar.

How to Call Canada from a US Cell Phone

Canada is located in North America and falls under the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). Since all countries within the NANP share the same country code, "1," you can call Canada from the US by dialing 1 before the desired number.

To call a NANP country, follow the primary method: 1 Area code (3 digits) TEL # (7 digits), where:

• 1 – Represents the ISD Code/Country Code of Canada
• 3-Digit Area Code – When calling Canada from the US, you must be familiar with the area codes for the desired number. Canada has 26 area codes, so make sure to identify and dial the appropriate area code before the seven-digit number.

Refer to the table below to find the required area codes for Canada.

When calling Canadian cell phones from the US, you should follow this procedure:

• The Exit Code: 011
• 1 – Represents the ISD Code/Country Code of Canada
• 7-Digit Canadian Mobile Number

This method of calling Canada from the US is considered a long-distance call and may incur international calling charges based on the network provider's policy.

In order to economize on the expenses associated with international calls from the United States to Canada, there are a few options available to you. You can opt for international calling applications, virtual or physical calling cards, or network plans that cater to your specific requirements.

When it comes to making calls to Canada from either a cellphone or a landline in the United States, the same procedures can be followed. Simply adhere to the aforementioned steps when calling from a cellphone to initiate a call to Canada from a landline in the US.

However, do keep in mind that additional charges for international calls may apply when using landlines. Therefore, if you are concerned about any extra costs associated with calling Canada, it is recommended that you review your landline plan before making any calls. To mitigate the expenses, select a sensible plan that allows you to make calls without incurring any additional charges.

In order to call Canadian landlines, it is essential to utilize the area code specific to the region you are dialing. To assist you in identifying the correct code, a comprehensive list of all 26 regions is provided.

To make a call to any landline in Canada from the United States, simply dial the following sequence: 1 (Country Code) - The Area Code (Refer to the table below) - The 7 Digit Number.

Table of Canadian Area Codes:

- Manitoba: 204

- London, ON: 548

- London, ON: 226

- Granby, QC: 579

- Vancouver, BC: 236

- Quebec, QC: 581

- Sudbury, ON: 249

- Calgary, AB: 587

- Kelowna, BC: 250

- Vancouver, BC: 604

- Hamilton, ON: 289

- Ottawa, ON: 613

- Saskatchewan: 306

- Saskatchewan: 639

- Ottawa, ON: 343

- Toronto, ON: 647

- Hamilton, ON: 365

- Sudbury, ON: 705

- Quebec, QC: 367

- Newfoundland/Labrador: 709

- Calgary, AB: 403

- Vancouver, BC: 778

- Toronto, ON: 416

- Edmonton, AB: 780

- Quebec, QC: 418

- Nova Scotia/PE Island: 782

- Manitoba: 431

- Kenora, ON: 807

- Toronto, ON: 437

- Sherbrooke, QC: 819

- Montreal, QC: 438

- Calgary, AB: 825

- Granby, QC: 450

- Northern Canada: 867

- New Brunswick: 506

- Sherbrooke, QC: 873

- Montreal, QC: 514

- Nova Scotia/PE Island: 902

- London, ON: 519

- Hamilton, ON: 905

Data source: https://www.allareacodes.com/canadian_area_codes.htm

Area codes in Canada according to province:

Alberta: 403, 780, 825, 587

British Columbia: 778, 236, 604, 250

Manitoba: 204, 431

New Brunswick: 506

Newfoundland: 709

Northwest Territories: 867

Nova Scotia: 902, 782

Nunavut: 867

Ontario: 437, 647, 905, 249, 343, 416, 519, 705, 365, 548, 613, 807, 226, 289

Prince Edward Island: 902, 782

Quebec: 819, 514, 581, 438, 418, 450, 873, 367, 579

Saskatchewan: 639, 306

Yukon: 867

Comparison Table: Cost of Calling Canada

Regular Monthly Rates

Features

Terms

BOSS Revolution - Exclusive Calling Plan

$2.00

- Unrestricted calls to landlines and mobile phones in the United States & Canada. To purchase a calling plan, you must download the BOSS Revolution App.

No subscription fees. Only add credit when desired.

Bell

$10.00

- Unlimited long-distance calling within Canada and the US. This does not apply to toll-free numbers.

- Only available for home phone service.

- Offered to customers who continuously subscribe to three eligible services from the company (TV, internet, and home phone bundle). Otherwise, $34.95 per month.

Telehop

.99

- Unlimited calling to landlines and mobile phones in Canada and the USA.

Unlimited bundles automatically renew each month, but cancellations are allowed at any time.

Verizon - Global Calling

$5.00

- Unlimited long-distance calls to Mexico and Canada. Available to Verizon Wireless account holders. Calls to Canada are also included in some domestic plans.

AT&T International Calling

$15.00

- Unlimited calling from the US to 85 countries

In the realm of international calling, costs can skyrocket. Even though Canada falls under the NANP countries, making calls from the US to Canada still incurs international calling charges. However, there are alternative methods for making day-to-day international calls that don't require traditional cellular services.

For those who have a basic need to call Canada from the US, establishing a permanent arrangement to make calls over Wi-Fi or cellular data can be advantageous.

To broaden your options, here are several considerations to keep in mind:

Special Plans from Mobile Carriers

As technology brings people closer together, many network providers are offering plans to cater to the app-centric industry. This can be particularly beneficial for regions that lack basic facilities like data or Wi-Fi connections.

Across the US, there are numerous cellular network providers to choose from, based on your needs and budget. Here are a few options worth considering:

Verizon – Global Calling Plans

Verizon provides various plans for international calling and texting. Users can opt for unlimited data plans or shared data plans. Additionally, there are supplemental plans available to add international calls or messages. Prices start as low as $5.00 per month.

AT&T – International Day Pass

AT&T offers unlimited texts and calls for $15.00 to all International Day Pass countries. Users have the flexibility to upgrade or downgrade their plans according to their requirements.

Special Plans from Mobile Applications

Global Roaming and traditional international calling can be costly. However, calls and texts over Wi-Fi or cellular data are more convenient and easier on the wallet. For international calling, there are various apps to choose from, such as:

• BOSS Revolution
• FaceTime
• Facebook Messenger
• Google Hangouts
• IMO
• Line
• Skype
• Tango
• Viber
• WhatsApp

While this list is not exhaustive, these apps are widely regarded as reputable based on downloads, reviews, ratings, and features. With these apps, you can even make video calls effortlessly.

Virtual & Physical Calling Cards

If you need to call Canada from the US but lack internet access, virtual or physical calling cards are a great option for making international calls without relying on an internet service.

However, it's important to determine your budget for international calling and choose a card accordingly. Physical calling cards can be found at retailers like Wal-Mart and Target, while virtual cards are available for purchase online. If you're looking for reliable virtual calling cards specifically for calling Canadian numbers, here are a few options to consider:

• BOSS Revolutions
• Communications Fidelity
• Rebtel
• Reliance Global Call
• Universal Call

Calling Canada for Free

Throughout this guide, we've discussed several options, some of which incur little to no costs for international calling. The best approach is to consider Wi-Fi apps that allow you to make calls without any charges.

Keep in mind, however, that this option only applies to individuals with internet access, whether through Wi-Fi or cellular data. These apps enable unlimited voice calls, video calls, text messaging, and more. Additionally, you can stay connected with your loved ones as long as they have downloaded the same apps.

Some of the most widely used options globally include:

• BOSS Revolution
• Facebook Messenger
• Facetime
• Line
• WhatsApp

Revolutionizing Voice Solutions for Businesses

When it comes to corporate communications, regular numbers from network providers just don't cut it. Instead, for effective business purposes, registered numbers are a must-have.

But fear not, because there's a way to expand your business's reach and make communication easier: virtual phone numbers. These numbers operate using the VoIP protocol, bringing efficiency to business communication.

To obtain a virtual number for your business, consider utilizing the services provided by IDT EXPRESS. With IDT Express, you can enjoy virtual numbers that present an authentic local presence, including 24/7 availability of toll-free numbers in over 70 countries. This includes Canada, with both DID and DDI options.

Furthermore, IDT Express offers a rapid, convenient, and completely secure phone network that prioritizes your business's privacy. Flexible pricing options are available, and you can benefit from caller ID support (CNAM, ANI-II / OLI) – everything your business needs for affordable international calling.

Consider the Time Zone

It's important to keep in mind that time zones play a role in communication when calling from one location to another. Fortunately, when dialing Canada from the US, the time difference varies depending on the state. This means you won't experience any delays in communication.

Key Takeaway: Affordable Calling Options

Calling Canada from the US can be costly, but with the right choices and calling plans from reputable network services, you can save a substantial amount of money. This guide presents various ideas for you to explore and discover the best options available. All the services mentioned above can be used for global calling, ensuring hassle-free savings.

Sources: The information in this article is derived from the respective websites as of June 18, 2021.

This article is intended solely for informational purposes and does not provide comprehensive coverage of the discussed topics. The information presented does not constitute personalized advice. IDT Payment Services, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively referred to as "IDT") do not offer legal, tax, regulatory, or any other professional advice through this article. It is recommended to seek professional or other relevant advice before making any decisions based on the information provided. IDT does not make any explicit or implicit guarantee regarding the currentness, accuracy, or completeness of the content in this article.