In our increasingly interconnected world, staying in touch with friends, family, and business contacts across the globe is more important than ever. For Americans looking to reach individuals in certain parts of the world, understanding international dialing codes is a crucial first step. One such code you might encounter is the 255 country code.
This article will delve into what the 255 country code signifies, how to use it when dialing from the United States, and important considerations to keep in mind for a smooth and cost-effective international calling experience.
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What is the 255 Country Code?
The 255 country code is the international dialing prefix for Tanzania, a nation located in East Africa. When you see a phone number beginning with +255, it indicates that the number is associated with a landline or mobile phone within Tanzania. This code is assigned by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to ensure proper routing of international calls.
How to Dial Tanzania from the United States using the 255 Country Code
Calling a number in Tanzania from the U.S. is a straightforward process, but it requires a specific sequence of digits. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Dial the U.S. Exit Code: The first step is to dial “011.” This is the international exit code for the United States, signaling to your phone carrier that you are making an international call.
- Enter the 255 Country Code: Immediately after the exit code, you will dial “255.” This routes your call to the Tanzanian telecommunications network.
- Include the Area Code (for Landlines) or Mobile Prefix:
- For Landlines: Tanzania uses area codes for landline numbers. These are typically two digits long and precede the local phone number. For example, Dar es Salaam uses the area code 22, and Zanzibar uses 24. You’ll need to know the specific area code for the region you are trying to reach.
- For Mobile Numbers: Tanzanian mobile numbers generally do not require an additional area code after the 255 country code. They typically start with a two-digit mobile prefix (e.g., 61, 65, 71, 74, etc.) followed by the rest of the digits.
- Dial the Local Phone Number: Finally, enter the local phone number. This is the remaining set of digits that completes the recipient’s phone number within Tanzania.
Putting it all together, a typical call from the U.S. to a Tanzanian landline would look like this: 011 + 255 + [Area Code] + [Local Landline Number]
And for a mobile number: 011 + 255 + [Mobile Prefix] + [Remaining Mobile Number]
Important Considerations for Calling Tanzania
When making international calls, especially to a country like Tanzania, there are several factors Americans should consider:
Time Zone Differences
Tanzania observes Eastern Africa Time (EAT), which is UTC+03:00. This means there’s a significant time difference with the United States. For example, if it’s 10:00 AM in New York (Eastern Time, UTC-04:00 in summer), it would be 5:00 PM in Tanzania. Always check the current time in Tanzania before placing a call to ensure you’re not calling at an inconvenient hour for the recipient.
Call Costs
International calls can be expensive, and rates to countries like Tanzania can vary significantly depending on your service provider and calling plan.
- Traditional Landlines/Mobile Carriers: Check with your current phone provider (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) for their specific international calling rates to the 255 country code. They may offer international calling plans or add-ons that can reduce per-minute charges.
- Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services: Services like Skype, Google Voice, WhatsApp, or specialized international calling apps often provide more affordable rates for calls to Tanzania. These services typically use your internet connection to place calls, leading to lower costs.
- International Calling Cards: Prepaid international calling cards can also be a cost-effective option. You purchase a card with a set amount of minutes and then dial an access number before entering the 255 country code and the recipient’s number.
Potential Scams and Unsolicited Calls
It’s important to be aware of potential phone scams. Sometimes, individuals in the U.S. might receive “one-ring” calls from unfamiliar international numbers, including those with a 255 country code. The scammers’ goal is to entice you to call them back, often to a premium-rate number, resulting in significant charges on your phone bill.
Tips to avoid such scams:
- Do not answer or return calls from unknown international numbers. If it’s a legitimate call, the caller will likely leave a voicemail or find another way to reach you.
- Verify the number before calling back if you’re unsure. A quick online search can often reveal if a number is associated with a known scam.
- Consider blocking international calls if you do not regularly make them, or if your phone plan allows for it.
- Report suspicious calls to your phone carrier or the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Conclusion
The 255 country code is your gateway to connecting with individuals in Tanzania. By understanding the correct dialing sequence, considering time zone differences, exploring cost-effective calling options, and remaining vigilant against potential scams, Americans can ensure their international communication is seamless and secure. Whether for personal connection or business endeavors, a little preparation goes a long way in navigating the world of international dialing.
