To contact a friend, family member, or loved one in another country or region, you need to know the appropriate area code. Learn the country area codes to call someone in Canada.
What are country codes?
Phone numbers in Canada, and other North American countries, are comprised of ten digits. The first three numbers are the area code, designated to a specific province or state. The next three numbers typically refer to a smaller area in the region of the area code. The final four numbers are a unique combination of digits, specific to each caller.
If you are calling a foreign country, you also need to include the country code. The country code is a prefix to a phone number’s area code. For example, in Canada, the country code is 1. Most country codes are unique. However, Canada’s country code is shared with the US, a few smaller countries, and US territories.
If you are calling a friend internationally, you’ll need to add the international prefix, which is also referred to as the exit code or international direct dial (IDD) code. There are few IDD codes in use, and 00 and 011 are the most common. However, if you are calling from a mobile phone, you can use the + symbol instead, which you can access by holding down the 0 key.
How to call internationally using Canada’s country code
To call internationally from Canada or another country you’re in, add the + symbol before the country code 1, followed by the area code and then the local phone number. For example, if your phone is registered outside of Canada and you’re attempting to call a friend in Ontario, their number could look like the following: +1 (226)-XXX-XXXX. Country codes vary by country. If you are trying to reach a loved one in a country outside of Canada, include the specific country code to make international calls. The phone number structure also changes, depending on the country. Play close attention to the digits included in a number to ensure you reach who you wish to call.
The country code is also applicable if you are texting someone internationally. Before sending a text message, make sure to include + symbol and the appropriate country code.
What are Canada’s area codes?
When calling domestically or internationally in Canada, you must include the area code, after the country code. Canada has several provinces with their own corresponding area codes. Area codes include the following:
| 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 |
Why didn’t my phone call work?
If you’re having trouble making a call to or from Canada, check to ensure you’re using the correct country code. If the country code is correct, other causes for your call issues might be:
- Line blocks international calls: Some phone providers give their customers the option to block international calls. This may be set by default and your provider may not even allow international calls.
- Unnecessary area code: Canada, US, and a few select countries use area codes for mobile phone numbers. Review any calling guidelines by checking if the country you are calling requires an area code for a mobile phone number.
- Connectivity issues in your environment: If you are having connectivity or sound issues on your phone call, your environment may be to blame. Background noise and poor internet connection can negatively impact your call. Find an environment conducive for a conversation with a strong internet connection to ensure a high-quality phone call.
Sending and receiving money in Canada
If you are trying to send money to family and loved ones in Canada, you can use the Western Union money transfer app. Visit our website to send money transfers to Canada from your computer or smartphone. You can also visit an agent location to help facilitate money transfers.
Call your loved ones in and from Canada using the correct country and area codes. Use Western Union when you need to send or receive money from your loved ones abroad.
