Reaching out to Belgium from the UK connects you to the heart of Europe. You might need to contact family in Ghent or business partners in Antwerp. The process is simple once you know the specific dialing rules. Many people worry about high costs or confusing codes. We will clear up that confusion immediately.

You do not need technical skills to make this call. This guide breaks down every code and step you need. We also explore how to save money on these international calls. For broader travel advice, you can check the UK Government foreign travel advice for Belgium.

Understanding the Basics of International Dialing

To call Belgium from UK, you must send specific signals to the phone network. You cannot simply dial the local number. The network needs to know you are crossing borders.

There are four main parts to every international call string.

• Exit Code: This lets your carrier know the call is leaving the UK.

• Country Code: This directs the call specifically to Belgium.

• Area Code: This routes the call to a specific city or region.

• Local Number: This is the unique phone number of the person you are calling.

If you miss one part, the call fails. If you type the wrong country code, you might reach a stranger in another nation. Accuracy is key here.

The Critical Role of the Exit Code

The exit code acts as a gatekeeper. In the United Kingdom, the standard exit code is 00. When you dial 00, the system prepares for an international connection.

Mobile phones offer a modern shortcut. You can use the plus sign (+) instead of 00. Both methods work perfectly. The plus sign is often easier to type on smartphones.

Belgium’s Unique Country Code

Every nation has a digital identity. Belgium’s country code is 32.

When you combine the exit code and country code, you get 0032 or +32. This sequence is the foundation of your call. It is the digital address for the entire country of Belgium.

How to Call Belgium from UK: Step-by-Step

The dialing process changes slightly based on your phone type. Landlines require traditional codes. Mobile phones offer more flexibility. Both methods connect you to the same place.

Calling from a UK Landline

Landlines rely on the standard exit code. Follow this exact order to connect.

• Dial 00: This is the UK exit code.

• Dial 32: This is the country code for Belgium.

• Enter the Area Code: Remove the leading zero from the Belgian city code.

• Enter the Subscriber Number: Input the remaining local digits.

Example:

To call a number in Brussels (02) 123 45 67, you dial:

00 32 2 123 45 67

Notice that the ‘0’ before the ‘2’ is gone. This is a crucial step.

Calling from a UK Mobile Phone

Mobile phones simplify the process with the plus symbol. This standard works globally.

• Press +: Hold the ‘0’ key until the plus sign appears.

• Dial 32: Enter the Belgian country code.

• Enter the Area Code: Again, leave out the first zero.

• Enter the Mobile or Landline Number: Type the rest of the digits.

Example:

To call a Belgian mobile (0470) 12 34 56, you dial:

+32 470 12 34 56

Using the + symbol prevents errors if you travel to other countries. It tells the network to insert the correct local exit code automatically.

Belgium Area Codes List

You must route your call to the correct city. Belgium divides its regions by area codes. These are essential for landline calls. Mobile numbers have their own distinct prefixes.

Remember to remove the leading ‘0’ when dialing from the UK.

Using the wrong area code will result in a failed call or a wrong number. Always double-check the city location before dialing.

Belgian Phone Number Formats

Recognizing the correct format prevents confusion. Belgian numbers look different than UK numbers. They vary in length depending on the device type.

Landline Number Structure

Landline numbers usually have nine digits when dialled within Belgium. This includes the leading zero.

• Domestic format: 02 555 1234

• International format: +32 2 555 1234

The area code can be two or three digits long. The subscriber number follows it.

Mobile Number Structure

Mobile numbers in Belgium usually start with 04. They are typically ten digits long domestically.

• Domestic format: 0475 12 34 56

• International format: +32 475 12 34 56

Mobile prefixes often identify the specific Belgian network provider. However, number portability means people keep numbers even if they switch networks. Just focus on dialing the digits correctly.

Best Time to Call Belgium

Timing is everything in international communication. You want to catch people when they are available. Belgium is in the Central European Time (CET) zone.

The Time Difference

Belgium is generally one hour ahead of the UK.

• UK (GMT/BST): 1:00 PM

• Belgium (CET/CEST): 2:00 PM

If you call at 9:00 AM UK time, it is 10:00 AM in Belgium. This small difference is easy to manage.

Business vs. Personal Calling Windows

For Business:

Call between 08:00 and 16:00 UK time. This aligns with the standard Belgian workday of 09:00 to 17:00. Avoid lunch hours, typically between 12:00 and 13:00 Belgian time.

For Personal Calls:

Evenings are usually best. Calling between 17:00 and 20:00 UK time ensures friends or family are home from work. Always respect late hours. A call after 21:00 UK time is 22:00 in Belgium, which might be too late.

Cost of Calling Belgium from UK

International calls can be surprisingly expensive. Costs vary wildly between providers. You must check your specific plan before dialing.

Standard Network Charges

Traditional providers charge per minute.

• Landlines: BT, Virgin, and others charge high connection fees plus per-minute rates.

• Mobiles: Calling from EE, O2, or Vodafone without a bundle can cost over £1.50 per minute.

A ten-minute call could cost you the price of a hearty lunch. Roaming charges also apply if you are traveling.

The Hidden Costs

You pay for every second. Even if the call drops, connection fees may apply. Business calls that require holding times can drain your budget.

If you call frequently, standard rates are not sustainable. You need a smarter solution. Modern technology offers better ways to connect without breaking the bank.

Why Use Telfon for Calls to Belgium?

Telfon is a cloud telephony app that solves high calling costs. It replaces traditional lines with internet-based calling. It is ideal for individuals and businesses alike.

You can save up to 50% compared to standard carriers. Telfon uses VoIP technology to route calls efficiently. You get crystal clear audio without the premium price tag.

Get a Belgian Virtual Number

Telfon allows you to buy a virtual Belgian number. This is a game-changer for businesses.

• Local Presence: You appear as a local caller to Belgian clients.

• Inbound Trust: People answer local numbers more often than foreign ones.

• Cost Savings: Friends in Belgium can call you at their local rates.

You do not need a SIM card or an office in Brussels. You simply manage the number through the Telfon app on your current phone.

Features for Power Users

Telfon is not just for calling. It offers tools that standard phones lack.

• Call Recording: Keep records of important business discussions.

• Analytics: Track how much time you spend on calls.

• WhatsApp Integration: Manage messages alongside calls.

• Global Reach: Call over 180 countries, not just Belgium.

For sales teams or support agents, these features are vital. You can manage multiple numbers from one dashboard. It turns your mobile into a global communication hub.

Common Dialing Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a guide, mistakes happen. Avoiding these common errors ensures you connect on the first try.

Keeping the Leading Zero

This is the most frequent error.

• Wrong: +32 02 123 4567

• Right: +32 2 123 4567

The domestic ‘0’ is only for calls inside Belgium. The international code replaces its function.

Confusing Country Codes

Do not mix up 32 (Belgium) with other nearby codes.

• Netherlands is 31.

• France is 33.

• Germany is 49.

Dialing 33 instead of 32 connects you to France. Always double-check the country code.

Ignoring Mobile Data

If you use a VoIP app like Telfon, you need an internet connection. Ensure you have Wi-Fi or 4G/5G data. Without data, the app cannot route the call.

Blocked Numbers

Some corporate numbers in Belgium block international incoming calls. If you cannot connect, the issue might be on their end. Try reaching them via email to confirm their phone settings.

Summary: Key Takeaways

Calling Belgium requires attention to detail. Keep these core points in mind for every call.

• Code: Always start with 0032 or +32.

• Format: Drop the first ‘0’ of the area code.

• Time: Belgium is one hour ahead of the UK.

• Cost: Standard networks are expensive; apps like Telfon are cheaper.

• Tool: Use virtual numbers to establish a local presence.

• Check: Verify the city code before dialing landlines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the code to call Belgium from UK?

The country code is 32. You must dial either 0032 or +32 before the local number.

How do I call a Belgian mobile from the UK?

Dial +32 followed by the mobile number without the first zero. For example, dial +32 475 123 456.

Is it free to call Belgium from the UK?

No, standard calls cost money. However, app-to-app calls via WhatsApp are free over Wi-Fi. For standard numbers, use Telfon for the lowest rates.

Can I keep my UK number when calling Belgium?

Yes. Your recipient sees your UK number unless you use a virtual number service.

Why is my call to Belgium not connecting?

Check if you removed the leading zero. Also, ensure you have enough credit or an active international plan.

How do I get a Belgian phone number in the UK?

You can purchase a virtual Belgian number through the Telfon app. It works on your existing smartphone instantly.

What is the time difference for business calls?

Belgium is GMT+1. Call between 8 AM and 4 PM UK time to catch Belgian businesses during their open hours.

Do I need to dial an area code for Belgian mobile numbers?

No. Belgian mobile numbers have their own prefixes (like 0475) that function similarly to area codes. Just drop the ‘0’.

Does Telfon work for SMS in Belgium?

Yes. Telfon supports sending and receiving SMS, as well as WhatsApp integration for business messaging.

Can I call Belgium from a UK payphone?

Yes, but it is very expensive. You must use cash or a card. Dial 0032, then the number. A calling app is much cheaper.