Are you planning on making international calls from Singapore? With globalization, it’s become increasingly common to communicate with people across borders, making it essential to know the different ways to make international calls. In this article, we will guide you through the various methods of calling international numbers from Singapore, including the use of country codes, exit codes, and different service providers.
Understanding International Number Formats
International phone numbers follow a specific format to ensure they can be dialed worldwide. The format consists of:
- Country Code: A unique code assigned to each country, such as +65 for Singapore.
- National Destination Code (NDC): Typically used for landlines within a country, but not always required for international calls.
- Subscriber Number: The phone number of the individual or organization you are calling.
For example, to call a landline in the United States, the full format would be:
+1 (Area Code) Local Number
Example: To call a landline in New York City, you would dial:
+1 (212) 555-1212
Using Exit Codes for International Calls
In Singapore, you need to dial an exit code before the country code to make international calls. The exit codes are as follows:
- 011: For calls made via Singtel
- 019: For calls made via StarHub
- 018: For calls made via other service providers
Example: To call the United States using Singtel, you would dial:
011 + 1 (Area Code) Local Number
Choosing the Right Service Provider
The cost of international calls can vary depending on the service provider you choose. Here is a comparison of the rates charged by different providers in Singapore:
| Service Provider | Cost per Minute (USD) |
|---|---|
| Singtel | 0.30 – 0.50 |
| StarHub | 0.25 – 0.45 |
| M1 | 0.20 – 0.40 |
| TPG | 0.15 – 0.35 |
| MyRepublic | 0.10 – 0.25 |
Useful Tips for Making International Calls
- Consider using VoIP services: VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services like Skype, WhatsApp, and Viber allow you to make international calls over the internet, often at a lower cost than traditional phone calls.
- Check for discounts and promotions: Some service providers offer discounts or promotions on international calls, so it’s worth checking with your provider before making a call.
- Use a calling card: Calling cards can be purchased from convenience stores or online, and they offer prepaid minutes that can be used to make international calls at a fixed rate.
- Take advantage of free Wi-Fi: If you have access to free Wi-Fi, you can use VoIP services or apps to make international calls without incurring any charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the cheapest way to make international calls from Singapore?
A: The cheapest way to make international calls is to use a VoIP service or a calling card.
Q: Can I use my mobile phone to make international calls?
A: Yes, you can use your mobile phone to make international calls, but you may incur roaming charges if you are calling from overseas.
Q: What is the exit code for international calls from Singapore?
A: The exit codes for international calls from Singapore are 011, 019, and 018, depending on the service provider you are using.
