Connecting with someone in Brazil from the United Kingdom can seem challenging. You may face confusing dialing codes, tricky time zones, and high call costs. This guide simplifies the entire process. We will give you clear, step-by-step instructions. You will learn how to make affordable and hassle-free calls from the UK to Brazil.
Brazil’s dynamic culture and growing economy create many links with the UK. You might be calling loved ones or managing business operations. Knowing the correct calling method is vital for clear communication. For official international standards, you can check resources like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
The Essential Dialing Format for Calling Brazil
Every international call from the UK follows a specific sequence. This format ensures your call connects to the right country, city, and person. You must dial each part of the number in the correct order. Failing to do so will result in a failed connection. The universal structure is simple to remember.
The complete dialing sequence looks like this:
UK Exit Code + Brazil Country Code + Brazilian Area Code + Local Phone Number
Understanding the UK Exit Code
First, you must dial the UK’s international exit code. This code signals to your provider that you are making a call outside the country.
- From a landline: Dial 00.
- From a mobile phone: Dial +. You can get the ‘+’ symbol by pressing and holding the ‘0’ key.
Using the ‘+’ symbol on a mobile is often easier. It automatically uses the correct exit code, no matter where you are calling from.
Brazil’s Country Code: Always Use 55
Next, you need to enter Brazil’s country code. The country code for Brazil is 55. This two-digit code directs your call to the Brazilian telephone network. You must dial it immediately after the UK exit code. This step is non-negotiable for any call to Brazil.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Call a Brazilian Number
With the basic format understood, let’s look at specific examples. The process differs slightly for calling a landline versus a mobile phone. This is mainly due to a special prefix used for Brazilian mobile numbers. Getting this detail right ensures your call connects successfully every time.
Calling a Brazilian Landline
Calling a landline in Brazil is straightforward once you have the codes. Landline numbers in Brazil typically have eight digits after the area code.
- Dial the UK Exit Code: Start with 00 (or + on mobile).
- Dial Brazil’s Country Code: Add 55.
- Dial the Area Code: Enter the two-digit area code for the city. For example, Rio de Janeiro’s area code is 21.
- Dial the Local Number: Finish with the eight-digit landline number.
Example call to a Rio landline: 00 – 55 – 21 – XXXX-XXXX
Calling a Brazilian Mobile Number
Most mobile numbers in Brazil have an extra digit. A ‘9‘ prefix was added to mobile numbers to increase line capacity. You must include this prefix after the area code when dialing.
- Dial the UK Exit Code: Start with 00 (or + on mobile).
- Dial Brazil’s Country Code: Add 55.
- Dial the Area Code: Enter the two-digit city area code. For instance, São Paulo’s area code is 11.
- Dial the Mobile Prefix: Add the digit 9.
- Dial the Local Number: Finish with the eight-digit mobile number.
Example call to a São Paulo mobile: +55 – 11 – 9 – XXXX-XXXX
Select Number
A Quick Reference for Major Brazilian Area Codes
| City/Region | Area Code (DDD) |
|---|---|
| São Paulo | 11 |
| Rio de Janeiro | 21 |
| Belo Horizonte | 31 |
| Salvador | 71 |
| BrasÃlia | 61 |
| Curitiba | 41 |
| Porto Alegre | 51 |
| Fortaleza | 85 |
| Recife | 81 |
| Manaus | 92 |
Always verify the area code if you are unsure. A quick online search can provide the correct code for any Brazilian location.
When is the Best Time to Call Brazil from the UK?
Timing is crucial for a successful international call. You want to reach people during their daytime or working hours. This requires understanding the time difference between the UK and Brazil. Calling at a convenient time shows respect and professionalism. It also increases the chances of your call being answered.
| UK Season | UK Time Zone | Time Difference with Brazil (BRT) |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | GMT (UTC+0) | Brazil is 3 hours behind the UK. |
| Summer | BST (UTC+1) | Brazil is 4 hours behind the UK. |
Therefore, if it is 12:00 PM in London, it is 9:00 AM in São Paulo during UK winter. In the summer, it would be 8:00 AM.
Optimal Calling Windows
To ensure you call at an appropriate time, follow these guidelines.
- For Business Calls: The best window is between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM BST (UK summer). This corresponds to 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Brazil. In winter, call between 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM GMT.
- For Personal Calls: Late afternoons and early evenings in the UK are ideal. Calling between 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM in the UK usually works well. This reaches people in Brazil during their afternoon or early evening.
Managing the Costs of UK to Brazil Calls
International call costs can add up quickly. Traditional phone providers often charge high per-minute rates. Understanding these costs helps you find more affordable ways to stay connected. Modern technology offers excellent, low-cost alternatives for everyone.
The High Price of Traditional Methods
Using your standard landline or mobile plan can be expensive. Many providers have steep charges for international calls.
- Landline Providers: Rates can vary from a few pence to over £1 per minute.
- Mobile Networks: Costs are often higher, sometimes reaching £2 per minute without a special plan.
You might also face hidden fees. These can include connection charges or taxes not clearly advertised. Always check your provider’s international tariff sheet before dialing to avoid bill shock.
Modern, Cost-Effective Alternatives
Fortunately, there are better ways to call Brazil. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services transmit calls over the internet. This technology dramatically reduces costs compared to old phone lines. Services using VoIP offer clear connections at a fraction of the price. This makes them ideal for both frequent and occasional callers.
Simplify International Calling with a Virtual Phone System
Navigating international calls is simple with the right tools. Telfon provides a powerful cloud telephony solution. It is designed to make global communication easy and affordable. We eliminate the complexity of calling Brazil, giving you a direct and cost-effective connection. Our system bridges the distance effortlessly.
What is a Virtual Brazil Number?
A virtual phone number is a real Brazilian phone number that works over the internet. It is not tied to a physical SIM card or phone line. With Telfon, you can get a virtual phone number for Brazil instantly. This gives you a local presence without needing a local office. People in Brazil can call you at their local rates. You can also make outbound calls to Brazil very cheaply.
Key Benefits for Calling Brazil
Telfon offers a range of features designed for seamless communication.
- Establish a Local Presence: A Brazilian virtual number makes you look local. This builds trust with clients and makes it easy for family to call you.
- Enjoy Low-Cost Rates: Our VoIP technology helps you save up to 50% compared to traditional carriers. Pay-as-you-go plans offer flexibility.
- Integrate with WhatsApp: Connect with contacts on WhatsApp, a vital communication tool in Brazil. Manage multiple accounts from one dashboard.
- Record Important Calls: Keep a record of business negotiations or precious family conversations for future reference.
- Manage Calls Professionally: Use features like call forwarding and voicemail-to-text to never miss an important connection. Our business plans include user analytics and team management tools.
Connect with Loved Ones in Brazil – Try Telfon Today
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the full dialing code for a São Paulo mobile from a UK mobile?
A1: You would dial +55 11 9 XXXX-XXXX. The ‘+’ is the exit code, 55 is the country code, 11 is the area code, and 9 is the mobile prefix.
Q2: How can I be sure I am calling at a good time?
A2: Check a world clock or time zone converter online before you call. During UK summer (BST), Brazil is 4 hours behind. In winter (GMT), it is 3 hours behind.
Q3: Is it cheaper to call Brazil using an app?
A3: Yes, VoIP apps like Telfon are significantly cheaper. They use the internet for calls, avoiding high carrier rates. This is the most cost-effective method for international calls.
Q4: Do all Brazilian mobile numbers use the ‘9’ prefix?
A4: Most mobile numbers in Brazil use the ‘9’ prefix after the area code. It is essential to include it to ensure your call connects properly.
Q5: Can I send an SMS to Brazil from the UK?
A5: Yes, you can. However, standard international SMS rates from your mobile provider can be high. Telfon offers an affordable SMS feature for individuals and businesses.
Q6: My call to Brazil failed. What should I check?
A6: First, re-check the entire number sequence. Ensure you have the correct exit code (+), country code (55), area code, mobile prefix (9), and local number.
Q7: What is a virtual phone number and how does it help my business?
A8: A virtual number gives your UK business a local Brazilian phone number. Customers in Brazil can call you cheaply, improving customer service and sales. It helps you build a professional presence without a physical office.
With the right knowledge and tools, calling Brazil from the UK is simple. Understanding dialing codes, time zones, and costs puts you in control. Modern solutions like Telfon remove the financial and technical barriers. They offer a reliable, feature-rich, and affordable way to connect.
Whether for family, business, or travel, stay connected without the hassle. Embrace a modern communication platform to make your calls to Brazil with confidence.













