Published : February 7, 2025If you are in Portugal and need to call the United States, you may be wondering how to do it easily and affordably. Calling America from Portugal can be done through various methods, depending on your preferences and needs.
In this blog, we will show you the best ways to make calls to the US from Portugal, so you can stay connected without any hassle. Let’s explore the easiest ways to call the US from Portugal.
Steps for Calling the United States from Portugal
To call the United States from Portugal, follow these steps:
Step 1: Dial the Exit Code: Begin by dialing 00, Portugal’s exit code for international calls.
Step 2: Enter the US Country Code: Next, input 1, the country code for the United States.
Step 3: Add the Area Code: For landlines, dial the three-digit area code corresponding to the US city you’re calling.
Step 4: Dial the Local Number: Finally, enter the seven-digit local phone number of the person or business you wish to reach.
By following these steps, you can successfully place a call from Portugal to the United States.
For Example:
- To call a New York City number (212 area code) from Portugal: 00 1 212 XXX XXXX.
How to Call a Mobile Number in the United States from Portugal?
Calling the US from Portugal is simple if you follow the right steps. Here’s exactly how to do it:
Step 1: Dial Portugal’s Exit Code: Since you’re calling another country, you need to start with Portugal’s international exit code: 00.
Step 2: Enter the US Country Code: After the exit code, dial 1– the country code for the United States. Every call to the US starts with this number.
Step 3: Add the Area Code: Next, enter the three-digit area code of the person you’re calling.Â
Step 4: Dial the Mobile Number: Finally, enter the seven-digit mobile number of the person you want to reach.
For Example:
- Let’s say you’re calling someone in Los Angeles with the number 555-1234. You should dial 00 1 310 555 1234.
Popular United States Area Codes
In the US, area codes help identify different regions for phone services. Some have become well-known because they are linked to major cities and business centers. Here are 20 important US area codes and the areas they cover:
| City | Area Code |
|---|---|
| New York City, NY | |
| Chicago, IL | |
| Miami, FL | |
| Boston, MA | |
| Atlanta, GA | |
| Phoenix, AZ | |
| Hawaii | |
| Kansas City, MO | |
| Nashville, TN | |
| Los Angeles, CA | |
| Columbus, OH | |
| San Francisco, CA | |
| Washington, D.C. | |
| Dallas, TX | |
| Houston, TX | |
| Portland, OR | |
| Las Vegas, NV | |
| New Orleans, LA | |
| Baltimore, MD | |
| Raleigh, NC |
You need to keep these and other area codes in mind when calling the US from Portugal or any other country.
Time Zone Differences Between Portugal and the United States
If you are in Portugal and need to connect with someone in the United States, knowing the time difference is key. Since both countries span multiple time zones, the difference can vary depending on where you’re calling.
Understanding the Time Zones
- Mainland Portugal follows Western European Time (WET), which is UTC+0.
- The Azores (an island group in Portugal) follow Azores Time (AZOT), which is UTC-1.
- The United States has several time zones, ranging from Eastern Time (ET, UTC-5) to Hawaii-Aleutian Time (HAT, UTC-10).
Here’s a simple explanation of the time difference between Portugal and different parts of the US:
| US Time Zone | Time Difference from Portugal |
|---|---|
| Eastern Time | 5 hours behind |
| Central Time | 6 hours behind |
| Mountain Time | 7 hours behind |
| Pacific Time | 8 hours behind |
| Alaska Time | 9 hours behind |
| Hawaii Time | 10 hours behind |
So, if it’s 12:00 PM in Lisbon, it’s 7:00 AM in New York and 4:00 AM in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that daylight saving time (DST) can affect these differences. The US and Portugal both observe DST, but their start and end dates may not always match. Always double-check before making important calls!
Alternative Ways to Call the United States from Portugal
There are a few alternative methods to consider that can save you money and time. Let’s look at three popular ways to make calls to the US from Portugal.
| Method | Cost | Internet Required? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Dialing | Occasional users | ||
| VoIP (CallHippo) | Businesses & frequent users | ||
| WhatsApp/Skype | Personal calls | ||
| Calling Cards | People without internet |
1. VoIP Services (like CallHippo)
VoIP services let you make calls using the internet instead of traditional phone lines. One popular platform is CallHippo. With CallHippo, you can get a US virtual number that allows you to receive calls as if you were in the U.S., even while in Portugal. You can also call US numbers at a lower rate than traditional methods. This is especially helpful for businesses or anyone who needs to make frequent calls to the US. Plus, you don’t need a special phone – you can use your computer or smartphone.
2. Internet Messaging Apps
Another popular way to call the US from Portugal is by using internet messaging apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Zoom. These apps let you make voice and video calls over the Internet, so you don’t have to worry about international calling charges. The only catch is that both you and the person you’re calling need to have the same app installed. But once you do, you can easily connect for free or at a low cost.
3. International Calling Cards
If you don’t want to rely on the internet, international calling cards can be another option. These cards are prepaid, and you can buy them online or in local stores. Once you have a card, you dial a local number in Portugal, enter your PIN, and then dial the US number. This method offers discounted rates for international calls and doesn’t require an internet connection.
Common Calling Mistakes When Dialing the US from Portugal
Calling the U.S. from Portugal might seem easy, but small mistakes can lead to failed calls, extra charges, or confusion. Here are the four most common mistakes when calling US from Portugal:
1. Forgetting the Exit Code: Before dialing any U.S. number, you need to enter Portugal’s exit code: 00. Without this, your call won’t go through.
2. Misdialing the Area Code: Every U.S. city or region has a unique area code. If you dial the wrong one, you might end up speaking to the wrong person or not get connected at all.
3. Prepaid Plan Restrictions: Some mobile plans, especially prepaid ones, may block international calls or charge high fees. Check with your provider to avoid unexpected costs.
4. Ignoring Time Zone Differences: The U.S. has multiple time zones, meaning a call made in the afternoon in Portugal could be early morning or late at night in the U.S.
Conclusion
Calling the US from Portugal is easy and affordable with the right method. Whether you choose traditional dialing, use VoIP services like CallHippo, or opt for internet apps and calling cards, each option offers its benefits. VoIP services, in particular, offer cost-effective rates and flexibility for both businesses and individuals. Consider the time zone differences and choose the method that best suits your needs. With these alternatives, you can stay connected with the US without worrying about high costs or complicated processes.
FAQs
What Is the ISD Code for the United States?
The ISD (International Subscriber Dialing) code for the United States is +1. To call the U.S. from Portugal, dial +1 followed by the area code and phone number.
Can I Call the United States from My Phone?
Yes, you can call the United States from your phone by dialing the ISD code +1, followed by the area code and phone number. Using services like CallHippo makes it easier and cheaper.
What Apps Can I Use to Call the United States?
You can use apps like WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom, and CallHippo to make calls to the United States. CallHippo offers affordable rates for both business and personal calls.
How Can I Make Free Calls to the United States?
You can make free calls to the U.S. using internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Zoom, as long as both parties have the app installed and a stable internet connection.
Updated : February 7, 2025
Supriya Bajaj is a senior content developer with immense experience in the VoIP telephony domain. With a deep knowledge of VoIP systems and emerging technologies in the field, she provides insightful and targeted content. Known for simplifying complex topics and her thought-leadership articles, Supriya delivers actionable content for both technical and non-technical audiences.
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