If you’re calling friends or family in Canada, you’ll need to know the right country and area codes to make sure your call goes through. Whether you’re just checking in or confirming a money transfer, knowing how to call Canada keeps you connected to those who matter most.
Sometimes a phone call isn’t quite enough. If you need to send money to Canada, Western Union offers a quick and reliable way to do it.
Key takeaways
- Canada’s calling code is +1, the same as the United States.
- To call Canada internationally, dial +1, followed by the area code and 7-digit number.
- Common Canadian area codes include 416 (Toronto), 514 (Montreal), and 604 (Vancouver).
- There’s no difference in how to call Canada between mobile and landline numbers. Both use the same format.
What is Canada’s calling code?
To call Canada from outside the country, you’ll need to start with its international calling code: +1. This is the same country code used for the United States and some Caribbean nations. A country code tells your phone provider which nation you’re trying to reach. Without it, your call may not go through.
After dialing +1, you’ll follow with the Canadian area code and local number. Whether you’re calling Toronto, Vancouver, or anywhere in between, knowing the right format makes it easier to stay in touch.
Major Canadian area codes to know
When calling Canada, the number you dial after the country code (+1) is the area code, which helps direct your call to a specific region or province. Recognizing these codes can also help you know where calls are coming from.
Here are some of the most common Canadian area codes:
| Region | Area Code(s) |
| Alberta | 780, 825, 587, 403 |
| British Columbia | 250, 604, 236, 672, 778 |
| Manitoba | 431, 204 |
| New Brunswick | 506, 428 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 709 |
| Northwest Territories | 867 |
| Nova Scotia | 902, 782 |
| Nunavut | 867 |
| Ontario | 807, 905, 705, 647, 613, 548, 519, 437, 416, 365, 343, 289, 249, 226 |
| Prince Edward Island | 782, 902 |
| Quebec | 438, 450, 514, 418, 367, 819, 354, 579, 873, 581 |
| Saskatchewan | 306, 639 |
| Yukon | 867 |
The code to call Canada will vary based on which area you’re calling. For example, to call a number in Alberta from the US, you might dial: +1 780 XXX XXXX.
How to call Canada from the US or abroad
Using the correct Canada calling code is essential when dialing from abroad. Whether you’re calling from the US, Europe, or beyond, follow these simple steps to make sure your call connects:
- Dial your country’s international dialing prefix if you’re calling from outside the US. For most of the world, this is 00.
- Enter Canada’s country code: 1.
- Add the 3-digit Canadian area code.
- Dial the 7-digit local phone number. This is the unique number for your recipient.
That’s it! With just a few digits, you’re connected across borders.
Dialing Canadian mobile numbers vs. landlines
Whether you’re calling a mobile phone or a landline in Canada, the dialing steps are the same:
- International dialing prefix, if needed
- Canada’s calling code
- Area code
- 7-digit number
Troubleshooting if your call didn’t connect
If your call didn’t connect, it may be due to a misdial or a block from your phone carrier. Here are a few things to check if you’re having trouble connecting:
- Double-check the number format: Make sure you included your country’s international call prefix, then 1, followed by the correct Canadian area code and 7-digit local number.
- Look out for extra digits or missing numbers: Too many or too few digits can cause the call to fail.
- Ensure your plan allows international calls: Some carriers block international dialing by default. Contact your provider to confirm or enable access.
- Try an alternate device or app: Calling via mobile apps like WhatsApp or using VOIP services can sometimes bypass carrier restrictions.
Still not working? Ask your contact in Canada to confirm their number and carrier details to rule out any local issues.
Tips to save money on calls to Canada
International calls can add up quickly, but there are easy ways to cut costs when calling Canada. Here are a few smart tips:
- Use Wi-Fi calling apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber to call over the internet instead of your phone plan.
- Check your carrier’s international rates before dialing. Some providers offer discounted calling packages.
- Call during off-peak hours when rates may be lower.
- Use local SIM cards or calling cards if you’re traveling internationally.
Want more ways to save? Read our guide on how to save money making international calls.
Staying connected with friends and family in Canada
A quick call to check in or offer support goes a long way. Staying connected with family and friends in Canada is how we show we care, even across borders.
With the right Canada calling code, area code, and local number, reaching out is simple. And when a conversation isn’t enough, Western Union is here to help. Send money to Canada through our mobile app, check the USD-to-CAD exchange rate, and support the people who matter most in just a few minutes.
FAQs
Canada’s country calling code is +1. It’s the same code used by the United States and several Caribbean nations. You’ll need to dial this code before the area code and local number when calling from abroad.
To call Canada from the US, dial 1 (Canada’s country code), followed by the 3-digit area code and the 7-digit local number. You don’t need to dial an international calling prefix, such as 011, since both countries share the same calling structure.
Some of the most commonly used Canadian area codes include 416 (Toronto), 514 (Montreal), 604 (Vancouver), and 403 (Calgary). Different provinces often have multiple area codes, so it’s good to check before making a call.
No, mobile numbers in Canada don’t require a special prefix. You may need to dial an international calling prefix, like 00, if you’re calling Canada from outside North America.
