Ever felt that pang of frustration when you can’t connect with loved ones back in the United States? Maybe it’s a birthday, a crucial business call, or simply needing to hear a familiar voice. Whatever the reason, making a call from the Philippines to the USA can sometimes feel like navigating a confusing maze of international codes and varying rates. Understanding the process not only bridges geographical distances but also ensures you’re not overpaying for the connection. This guide demystifies the process, offering clear, concise steps to dial the USA from the Philippines with ease and confidence.
In today’s interconnected world, staying in touch across continents is more vital than ever. Whether you’re a Filipino resident with family overseas, an expat working abroad, or simply traveling and needing to conduct business, knowing how to make international calls is a practical necessity. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to choose the best calling methods, avoid hidden charges, and navigate time zone differences, ultimately making communication seamless and cost-effective. Master the art of international calling and stay connected to the people and opportunities that matter most.
What Do I Need to Know Before Calling?
What’s the cheapest way to call the USA from the Philippines?
The cheapest way to call the USA from the Philippines is generally by using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, primarily through mobile or desktop apps that utilize a Wi-Fi or data connection. These services drastically reduce costs compared to traditional landline or mobile calls by leveraging the internet for the bulk of the connection.
To elaborate, several VoIP apps and services offer significantly lower rates for international calls than traditional phone companies. Popular options include WhatsApp, Viber, Skype, Google Voice, and other similar platforms. The cost is usually minimal, potentially only data charges if using a Wi-Fi connection, or a very low per-minute rate if calling a landline or mobile number in the USA that isn’t also using the same app. These apps often have features like free calls and messages between users of the same service. Before making a call, compare the rates offered by different VoIP providers. Some may have promotional offers or specific calling plans that could be more advantageous depending on the frequency and duration of your calls. Ensure a stable and strong internet connection to guarantee good call quality and avoid interruptions. Consider also the time difference between the Philippines and the USA to avoid calling at inconvenient hours for the recipient.
What is the correct country code and exit code sequence?
To call the USA from the Philippines, the correct sequence is: **00 1 [US phone number]**. The ‘00’ is the exit code for the Philippines, which you dial first to indicate you are making an international call. ‘1’ is the country code for the USA, identifying that you are calling a number within the United States.
To break it down further, the exit code ‘00’ tells the Philippine phone network that you are dialing an international number, so it knows to route your call outside of the country. Without this, the system would interpret the following digits as a local Philippine number, leading to a failed call. The country code ‘+1’ specifically designates the United States and its territories within the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). It informs the international telecommunications network that the call should be directed to the US.
After dialing the exit code and the country code, you will then dial the rest of the US phone number. US phone numbers are composed of a three-digit area code and a seven-digit local number. So, after ‘00 1’, you will enter ten digits total. For example, if you wanted to call the number (555) 123-4567, the complete sequence would be: 00 1 555 123 4567. Remember to dial all ten digits of the US phone number after the exit code and country code for the call to connect successfully.
Can I use a mobile app to call the US without high fees?
Yes, you can absolutely use a mobile app to call the US from the Philippines without incurring high fees. Many Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps utilize internet connectivity instead of traditional phone networks, significantly reducing or even eliminating international calling charges.
To avoid high fees, focus on apps that offer either free calls to the US (usually with some limitations) or have very competitive per-minute rates. Popular options include Viber, WhatsApp, Skype, Messenger, and Google Voice. These apps typically require both you and the person you’re calling to have the app installed. When both parties are using the same app, calls are often free, utilizing your data connection instead of cellular minutes. However, some of these apps also offer the option to call regular phone numbers in the US at significantly lower rates than traditional international calling. The actual cost will depend on the app you choose, the calling plan (if any), and your internet connection. Ensure you are connected to a stable Wi-Fi network to avoid using your mobile data, which could lead to unexpected charges, especially if you have a limited data plan. Before making a call, check the app’s rates and any potential fees to avoid surprises. Also, be mindful of any time zone differences when calling.
How do I call a US toll-free number from the Philippines?
Calling a US toll-free number (like 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, or 833) from the Philippines usually requires a workaround since these numbers are typically only accessible from within the United States, Canada, and sometimes certain Caribbean territories. Direct dialing will likely fail.
The most common method is to use a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service or app that provides US phone numbers and allows outgoing calls. Popular options include Skype, Google Voice, Viber Out, and similar services. You’ll need to purchase credits or a subscription from the VoIP provider to make outbound calls. When using such a service, dial the US toll-free number as you normally would if you were calling from within the US (e.g., 1-800-XXX-XXXX). The VoIP service essentially masks your Philippine location and connects the call as if it originated from the US.
Another alternative, although potentially more expensive, is to use an international calling card that specifically allows access to US toll-free numbers. Read the terms and conditions carefully, as not all international calling cards support toll-free access, and those that do may have specific dialing instructions or surcharges. Finally, you can explore dedicated “toll-free forwarding” or “virtual US number” services, where you obtain a US-based number that forwards calls to your Philippine number. However, for simply *calling* a toll-free number, using a VoIP service is generally the most cost-effective and convenient solution.
Are there any area code restrictions I need to know?
Generally, there are no specific area code restrictions when calling the USA from the Philippines in terms of *prohibitions* against calling particular area codes. You can dial any valid US area code. However, you need to be aware of the geographic location represented by the area code to understand the recipient’s local time and avoid calling at inconvenient hours. Also, be mindful of potential scams or high-cost services sometimes associated with specific area codes.
While technically you can call any valid US area code, understanding the area code’s location is crucial. The continental US spans several time zones, so calling someone in California (area codes like 213, 310, etc.) while it’s late at night in the Philippines means you’ll be calling them in the middle of the night. Use online resources to determine the time zone associated with the area code you are calling to ensure you’re calling at a reasonable hour.
Be cautious of unsolicited calls from unfamiliar US area codes, particularly those associated with potential scams. These scams often target international callers and may involve requests for money or personal information. It’s always best to verify the legitimacy of the call before providing any information. Reverse phone lookup services can sometimes help identify the origin of a number, though they are not always reliable. Exercise caution and critical thinking when receiving calls from unknown area codes.
What are the alternatives to traditional phone calls?
Calling the USA from the Philippines has moved beyond traditional landlines and mobile carriers. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services and mobile apps offering internet-based calling are now the primary alternatives, offering significant cost savings and increased flexibility.
Modern alternatives leverage the internet to transmit voice data, bypassing expensive international calling rates charged by traditional phone companies. VoIP services like Viber Out, Skype, Google Voice, and WhatsApp Calling are popular choices. These services often offer significantly cheaper per-minute rates or even free calls to the US if both parties are using the same app and connected to Wi-Fi or a mobile data network. The call quality is generally good, dependent mainly on the internet connection’s strength and stability. Furthermore, several mobile apps are specifically designed for international calls. These apps may bundle international minutes with a monthly subscription or offer pay-as-you-go rates. Some examples include Rebtel, Vonage Mobile, and MagicJack. These apps often have features like call recording, voicemail, and the ability to display a US-based phone number, making it easier for recipients in the US to identify the caller. When choosing an alternative, consider the call quality, cost per minute (or subscription fee), ease of use, and features offered. Comparing these factors across different services will help determine the best option for your needs.
And that’s all there is to it! Calling the USA from the Philippines doesn’t have to be a headache. Hopefully, this guide has made the process a little clearer and easier for you. Thanks for reading, and we hope you’ll come back again for more helpful tips and tricks!