International Calling

How to Call Bosnia and Herzegovina from the UK

Last Updated: January 9, 2026
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Connecting with family or business partners in Bosnia and Herzegovina is vital. You want clear audio and low costs. Many people worry about complicated dialing codes. High international calling fees are also a major concern. You do not need to stress about these logistics.

This guide simplifies the entire process for you. We cover the exact dialing codes and cost-saving tips. You will learn how modern tools like Telfon reduce expenses. For a broader list of international codes, you can visit CountryCode.org for reference. Let us make your call to the Balkans seamless.


The Basics of International Dialing

Every international call follows a specific logic. You must signal your network to leave the UK. Then you direct the call to the specific country. Finally, you target the region and the individual.

This sequence ensures your call travels thousands of miles correctly. It prevents connection errors. It also ensures you reach the right household or office.

The Standard Calling Formula

You should memorize this simple order. It applies to almost every international call you make.

  • Exit Code: Leaves the UK system.
  • Country Code: Targets Bosnia and Herzegovina.
  • Area Code: Targets a city or region.
  • Local Number: Connects to the specific phone.

We will break down these specific numbers below.

How to Call from a UK Landline

Landlines require a specific exit code. This is different from mobile phones.

Step 1: Dial 00

This is the UK exit code. It tells your provider the call is international.

Step 2: Dial 387

This is the country code for Bosnia and Herzegovina. It routes the call to the correct nation.

Step 3: Dial the Area Code

Enter the code for the city (e.g., 33 for Sarajevo).

Step 4: Dial the Number

Enter the remaining digits of the subscriber’s number.

Example: 00 387 33 XXX XXX

Important Landline Note

Do not dial the zero before the area code. If the local number is 033, just dial 33.

How to Call from a UK Mobile

Mobile phones offer a slightly easier method. The process is faster and more intuitive.

Step 1: Use the Plus (+)

Press and hold the ‘0’ key. A plus sign will appear. This replaces the ’00’ exit code.

Step 2: Dial 387

Enter the Bosnia and Herzegovina country code.

Step 3: Enter the Mobile Prefix

Mobile numbers usually start with 6. You do not need a city area code.

Step 4: The Local Number

Finish with the rest of the person’s number.

Example: +387 6X XXX XXX

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Note: Since we integrate Twilio's robust phone number system, some specific numbers might be unavailable in certain regions. However, you can request an exclusive local number by filling out the form provided.



Bosnia and Herzegovina Area Codes

You must use the correct area code for landlines. These codes route calls to specific geographic regions. Using the wrong code will result in a failed connection.

Here are the most essential codes you will need.

City / RegionArea Code
Sarajevo33
Banja Luka51
Mostar36
Tuzla35
Zenica32
Bihać37
Doboj53
Prijedor52
Travnik30
Trebinje59

Understanding Mobile Prefixes

Bosnian mobile numbers are different. They do not use the geographic codes above. They connect via mobile network prefixes.

Most mobile numbers start with 60, 61, 62, 63, 65, or 66.

When you see a number starting with 061 locally, drop the 0.

Dial it as +387 61 XXX XXX from the UK.


Best Time to Call Bosnia

You must consider time differences before dialing. Waking someone up at 3 AM is never ideal. Business calls should also fall within working hours.

Time Zone Facts

Bosnia and Herzegovina is on Central European Time (CET).

This is generally GMT+1.

  • Winter: Bosnia is one hour ahead of the UK. (1 PM in London = 2 PM in Sarajevo).
  • Summer: Both countries use Daylight Saving Time. The one-hour difference usually remains the same.

Recommended Calling Windows

Personal Calls:

Call between 5 PM and 9 PM UK time. This is early evening in Bosnia. It is usually convenient for friends and family.

Business Calls:

Call between 8 AM and 4 PM UK time. This aligns with the Bosnian work day (9 AM to 5 PM).

Avoid calling between 11 AM and 12 PM UK time. This is often the lunch hour in Bosnia.


The High Cost of Traditional Calling

Calling internationally through standard carriers is expensive. Traditional networks rely on old infrastructure. This drives up the price per minute.

Landline Provider Traps

UK landline providers often charge high per-minute rates. They may also add a “connection fee” for every call.

You might pay significantly more during “peak” daytime hours.

Bills can arrive weeks later with unexpected charges.

Mobile Roaming and Rates

Calling directly from your UK mobile sim is costly.

Standard rates can exceed £1.50 per minute with some providers.

Roaming charges apply if you use your UK SIM while traveling in Bosnia.

Key Takeaway: Avoid direct dialing from standard SIM cards for long conversations.


Reduce Costs with VoIP and Telfon

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is the modern solution. It sends voice data over the internet. This bypasses expensive phone lines.

Why VoIP Wins:

  • Lower Rates: Calls cost a fraction of traditional prices.
  • Better Quality: HD audio over stable Wi-Fi or 4G.
  • Flexibility: Call from any device.

The Telfon Advantage

Telfon is a leading cloud telephony solution. It is designed for both individuals and businesses. It solves the high-cost problem instantly.

Cost Savings:

You can save up to 50% compared to other providers.

Telfon uses a “Pay-as-you-go” model. You only pay for what you use.

Global Reach:

You can call over 180 countries, including Bosnia.

The app works on Google Play, App Store, and Chrome Web Store.


Why You Might Need a Virtual Number

A virtual number allows you to have a local presence. You can own a Bosnian phone number while living in the UK.

Benefits for Individuals

Family in Bosnia can call you cheaply. They dial a local Bosnian number. It rings on your mobile in the UK.

This removes the cost barrier for your elderly relatives.

Benefits for Business

Trust is currency in business. A local Sarajevo number looks professional.

Clients are more likely to answer a local call.

It eliminates the “foreign caller” hesitation.


Telfon Features for Power Users

Telfon is not just for simple calls. It is a robust business phone system. Over 600 companies currently trust this software.

Core Features (For Everyone)

  • Call Recording: Save important conversations for later.
  • WhatsApp Integration: Manage multiple accounts easily.
  • Voicemail to Text: Read your messages on the go.
  • SMS Capabilities: Send and receive texts globally.

Business Specific Tools

If you run a team, Telfon offers enterprise-grade power.

  • User Analytics: View graphs and charts of call performance.
  • Budget Assignment: Control spending per employee.
  • Bulk SMS: Send marketing messages to hundreds of clients.
  • Number Management: Reconfigure numbers instantly.
  • Custom Logos: Generate call widgets with your branding.


Step-by-Step: Using Telfon to Call

Getting started takes minutes. You do not need hardware.

  • Download the App: Find Telfon on your app store.
  • Create an Account: Sign up quickly.
  • Add Credits: Choose a budget that fits your needs.
  • Select Destination: Choose Bosnia and Herzegovina.
  • Dial: Enter the number and talk.

This method avoids dialing codes confusion. The app handles the routing for you.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes calls fail. Here is how to fix common problems.

Problem: Call Does Not Connect

  • Check the Balance: Ensure you have credit.
  • Check the Format: Did you drop the leading ‘0’ from the area code?
  • Check the Connection: Ensure you have strong Wi-Fi or data.

Problem: Poor Audio Quality

  • Switch Networks: Move from 4G to Wi-Fi.
  • Close Background Apps: Free up bandwidth on your phone.

Problem: Number Busy

  • Check Time Zone: Are they sleeping?
  • Check Holidays: Is it a public holiday in Bosnia?

Practical Tips for Travelers

Are you visiting Bosnia soon? You still need to stay connected.

Avoid Roaming Shock

Do not use your UK SIM data in Bosnia. It is outside the EU roaming zone. Costs are astronomical.

Use Wi-Fi First

Connect to hotel or cafe Wi-Fi. Use Telfon to call back home to the UK. This creates a “local” calling experience over the internet.

Get a Local SIM

You can buy a Bosnian SIM for data. Then use Telfon for your UK number presence.


Summary of Key Takeaways

Calling Bosnia and Herzegovina is simple with the right knowledge.

  • Dialing Code: Always use +387.
  • Area Codes: Drop the zero (e.g., 33, not 033).
  • Time Difference: usually +1 hour from the UK.
  • Cost: Traditional carriers are expensive.
  • Solution: VoIP apps like Telfon save money.

Effective communication strengthens relationships. It also drives business success. Do not let technology barriers stop you.

Your Seamless Connection to the Balkans.



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the country code for Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The country code is 387. You dial this after the UK exit code (00) or the plus sign (+) on mobiles.

How do I call a mobile in Bosnia from the UK?

Dial +387 followed by the mobile number. Remember to remove the leading ‘0’ from the mobile number. It usually starts with a 6.

Is it expensive to call Bosnia from the UK?

Traditional landlines and mobile operators can be very expensive. Using a VoIP app like Telfon is significantly cheaper. It can save you up to 50% on call costs.

Can I get a Bosnian phone number in the UK?

Yes. Telfon allows you to purchase virtual numbers. You can have a Bosnian number that rings on your UK device.

What is the time difference between the UK and Bosnia?

Bosnia is typically one hour ahead of the UK. When it is 12:00 PM in London, it is 1:00 PM in Sarajevo.

Does calling Bosnia require an internet connection with Telfon?

Yes. Since Telfon uses cloud telephony, you need Wi-Fi or mobile data (4G/5G) to make the call. This ensures high audio quality.

Can I send SMS to Bosnia using Telfon?

Yes. The app supports sending and receiving SMS. It also offers bulk SMS features for business marketing.

Do I need to dial 00 on my mobile?

No. On a smartphone, you can just press and hold ‘0’ to get the ‘+’ sign. Then dial 387. This is faster and universally accepted.

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