International Calling

How to Call Brazil from UK: A Complete Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2025
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Connecting with friends, family, or business partners in Brazil from the United Kingdom might seem complex at first. You need to navigate international dialing codes, time differences, and potential high costs. This comprehensive guide simplifies the process, ensuring your calls to Brazil from UK are clear, affordable, and hassle-free. We will walk you through every step, from understanding dialing codes to finding the most cost-effective solutions.

 

Brazil, with its vibrant culture and growing economy, attracts many people from the UK, whether for personal connections or professional ventures. Whether you are planning a trip, managing a remote team, or simply keeping in touch with loved ones, knowing the right way to call Brazil from UK is essential. For more general information on international dialing, you can refer to resources like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

 

Understanding the Basics of Calling Brazil from UK

 

Before you dial, you need to understand the fundamental components of an international phone number. These elements ensure your call reaches the correct person, thousands of miles away. Making UK to Brazil calls requires a specific sequence of numbers.

 

The Essential Dialing Sequence

 

Every international call from the UK follows a standard format. You begin with an exit code, then the country code of the destination, followed by an area code, and finally, the local phone number. This sequence directs your call across borders and to the right city or region within Brazil.

 

Brazil Country Code: Your First Step

 

The Brazil country code is ’55’. This two-digit number acts like an international postal code, directing your call specifically to Brazil. Always dial ’55’ immediately after your international exit code. It signals to the global telephone network that you intend to reach a Brazilian number.

 

Calling Brazil from a UK Landline

 

Calling from a landline remains a common method for many individuals and businesses. It offers reliability but often comes with specific dialing requirements and costs.

 

Step-by-Step Landline Dialing

 

  1. Dial 00: This is the UK’s international exit code. It tells your phone provider you are making an international call.
  2. Dial 55: This is the Brazil country code.
  3. Dial the Brazilian Area Code: This two-digit code specifies the region or city within Brazil you are calling. For example, ’11’ for São Paulo or ’21’ for Rio de Janeiro.
  4. Dial the Local Phone Number: This is the individual’s seven or eight-digit phone number.

 

So, a full landline call might look like: 00 – 55 – [Area Code] – [Local Phone Number].

 

Considerations for Landline Calls

 

Landline calls can incur higher costs, especially for international destinations like Brazil. Your provider often charges per minute, and these rates can vary significantly. Checking with your landline provider for their specific UK to Brazil calls tariffs before dialing is a good practice. Weekends or off-peak hours sometimes offer slightly lower rates.

 

Calling Brazil from a UK Mobile Phone

 

Mobile phones offer flexibility, allowing you to make calls on the go. The dialing process is slightly different but still straightforward.

 

Mobile Dialing Made Easy

 

  1. Dial +: Instead of ’00’, you can use the ‘+’ symbol on a mobile phone. Press and hold ‘0’ until ‘+’ appears. This automatically substitutes the correct international exit code for your location.
  2. Dial 55: Again, this is the Brazil country code.
  3. Dial the Brazilian Area Code: Enter the two-digit area code for the specific region.
  4. Dial the Local Phone Number: Input the seven or eight-digit local number.

 

A mobile call will look like: +55 – [Area Code] – [Local Phone Number].

 

Mobile Network Charges

 

Be aware of your mobile network’s international calling rates. Standard international calls from a UK mobile can be expensive, often ranging from tens of pence to several pounds per minute. If you travel to Brazil, roaming charges will apply, making calls even more costly. Many mobile providers offer international call bundles or add-ons that can reduce per-minute costs. Inquire about these options if you plan to make frequent international calls UK Brazil.

 

Decoding Brazilian Phone Numbers

 

Brazilian phone numbers have a specific structure, and understanding it helps you ensure your call connects successfully. Both landline and mobile numbers have unique characteristics.

 

Brazil Area Codes: What You Need to Know

 

Brazil uses two-digit area codes (DDD – Código de Discagem Direta) for its various regions and cities. You must include the correct area code after the country code. Failing to do so will result in a failed connection.

 

City/RegionArea Code (DDD)
São Paulo11
Rio de Janeiro21
Belo Horizonte31
Salvador71
Brasília61
Curitiba41
Porto Alegre51
Fortaleza85
Recife81

 

Always confirm the specific area code for the location you are trying to reach. A quick online search for “Brazil area codes” can help if you are unsure.

 

Brazilian Phone Number Format

 

Brazilian phone numbers, after the area code, typically consist of either eight or nine digits.

 

  • Landline numbers usually have eight digits.
  • Mobile numbers were traditionally eight digits but gained an additional ‘9’ prefix in 2012 for most regions, making them nine digits long. This ‘9’ is added at the beginning of the local number, after the area code.

 

For example, a São Paulo mobile number would look like: +55 11 9xxxx-xxxx. A São Paulo landline would be: +55 11 xxxx-xxxx.

 

What is the ‘9’ in Brazilian mobile numbers?

The ‘9’ is a prefix added to most Brazilian mobile numbers (after the area code) to increase the number of available lines. You must include it when dialing a mobile number.

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Best Time to Call Brazil from the UK

 

Time differences can make international calling tricky. You want to avoid waking someone up in the middle of the night or calling during peak business hours when they might be unavailable.

 

Understanding Time Zones

 

Brazil spans four time zones, but the most populous areas (São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília) observe Brasília Time (BRT), which is UTC-3. The UK observes Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in winter and British Summer Time (BST) in summer, which is UTC+0 and UTC+1 respectively.

 

Here’s a quick comparison:

 

  • UK Winter (GMT): Brazil (BRT) is 3 hours behind the UK. If it’s 12:00 PM GMT in London, it’s 9:00 AM BRT in São Paulo.
  • UK Summer (BST): Brazil (BRT) is 4 hours behind the UK. If it’s 12:00 PM BST in London, it’s 8:00 AM BRT in São Paulo.

 

Brazil also observes Daylight Saving Time in some regions, but it does not always align with the UK’s schedule. Always double-check the current time in your destination city in Brazil before making an important call.

 

Optimal Calling Hours

 

Considering the time difference, here are some general guidelines for international calls UK Brazil:

 

  • For Business Calls: Aim to call between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Brazilian time. This means if you are in the UK during summer, you would call between 1:00 PM and 9:00 PM BST. During UK winter, you would call between 12:00 PM and 8:00 PM GMT.
  • For Personal Calls: Late afternoon or early evening in the UK often works well. For instance, calling around 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM BST (which would be 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM BRT) hits the early afternoon in Brazil, a convenient time for many.

 

What is the time difference between UK and Brazil?

The time difference varies by UK and Brazilian daylight saving changes. Generally, Brazil’s main cities (BRT) are 3 to 4 hours behind the UK (GMT/BST). Always check a current time zone converter for precise times.

 

Cost of Calling Brazil from the UK

 

Cost is a major concern for many when making international calls. Traditional methods can be expensive, but modern solutions offer more affordable options.

 

Traditional Call Costs

 

When you call Brazil from UK using a standard landline or mobile service, you typically pay per minute. These rates vary widely depending on your provider and specific plan. Some providers might charge a connection fee on top of the per-minute rate. Here’s a general idea:

 

  • Landline Providers: Rates can range from a few pence to over £1 per minute, depending on the time of day and your package.
  • Mobile Network Providers: Standard rates are often higher, from £0.50 to £2 per minute, unless you have an international calling add-on.

 

These costs can quickly add up, especially for longer conversations or frequent calls.

 

Hidden Fees and Surprises

 

  • Connection Fees: Some providers charge a flat fee each time you connect an international call.
  • VAT: Value Added Tax is usually included in the advertised rates but always good to confirm.
  • Premium Rate Numbers: Ensure you are not calling a premium rate Brazilian number, which can have significantly higher charges.

 

Always check your provider’s current international call tariffs to avoid any surprises on your bill.

 

Cost-Effective Alternatives

 

Thankfully, several modern solutions make international calls UK Brazil much more affordable. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services and virtual phone numbers are leading the way. These services leverage the internet to transmit calls, drastically reducing costs compared to traditional phone lines. They often offer flat rates, subscription plans, or even free calls to other users on the same platform. This is where services like Telfon truly shine, providing a budget-friendly way to maintain communication.

 

Why You Might Call Brazil

 

People from the UK call Brazil from UK for a variety of compelling reasons, spanning personal connections, business opportunities, and travel planning.

 

Connecting with Family and Friends

 

Many individuals in the UK have family members or friends living in Brazil. Regular communication helps maintain these important relationships. Whether it’s for special occasions, daily chats, or sharing life updates, staying connected is a top priority. Keeping in touch bridges the geographical distance and fosters strong bonds.

 

Business Opportunities and Partnerships

 

  • Negotiating deals: Clear and direct calls ensure all parties understand terms and conditions.
  • Managing remote teams: Businesses with staff in Brazil rely on calls for daily operations and project management.
  • Customer support: Providing local support to Brazilian clients enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Sales and Marketing: Reaching out to potential customers and partners in Brazil directly strengthens market presence.

 

For professionals, reliable international calls UK Brazil are not just convenient; they are essential for success.

 

Travel Planning and Tourism

 

Brazil is a popular tourist destination, famous for its carnivals, beaches, and natural wonders. Individuals often need to call Brazil from UK to:

 

  • Book accommodations: Confirming hotel reservations or discussing details with guesthouses.
  • Arrangement tours and activities: Planning itineraries with local tour operators.
  • Coordinate with local contacts: Meeting up with people once they arrive.

 

Clear communication ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

 

Simplify Your International Calls with Telfon

 

Navigating international dialing codes, time zones, and high costs can be daunting. Telfon provides a powerful, user-friendly solution designed to simplify your calling Brazil from UK experience. As a leading cloud telephony platform, Telfon makes global communication accessible and affordable for both individuals and businesses.

 

How Telfon Helps You Call Brazil from UK

 

Telfon is not just an app; it’s a comprehensive communication system. It allows you to purchase a virtual phone number Brazil, giving you a local presence without needing physical infrastructure. This means your contacts in Brazil can call you at local rates, and you can make outbound calls to Brazil at significantly reduced costs. It eliminates the need for complex dialing codes or worrying about traditional international charges. Telfon acts as your bridge, making UK to Brazil calls feel like local ones.

 

Telfon’s Key Benefits for UK to Brazil Calls

 

Telfon offers a suite of features that enhance your calling experience, especially for frequent international calls UK Brazil:

 

  • International Calls to 180+ Countries: Connect globally with ease, not just to Brazil.
  • Purchase Virtual Numbers: Get a dedicated virtual phone number Brazil (or other countries) instantly. This helps you establish a local presence.
  • Cost-Effective Rates: Enjoy significantly lower per-minute rates compared to traditional carriers.
  • User-Friendly Interface: The platform is intuitive and easy to navigate for all users.
  • Call Recordings: Keep track of important conversations for training, compliance, or record-keeping.
  • Send & Receive SMS: Communicate via text with your Brazilian contacts.
  • WhatsApp Integration: Connect multiple WhatsApp accounts for seamless messaging with clients or contacts, a crucial feature in Brazil where WhatsApp is widely used.
  • Multi-Country Numbers: Manage virtual numbers from several countries simultaneously from one account.
  • Voicemail & Voicemail to Text: Never miss a message, and receive transcripts for convenience.
  • Call Forwarding: Redirect calls to another number, ensuring you are always reachable.
  • Business Features (B2B):
  • User Analytics: Gain insights into call patterns, duration, and user activity.
  • Dashboard Filters: Easily manage and track communications.
  • User Management: Assign budgets and control user access for teams.
  • Custom Messaging Service: Tailor communication for specific campaigns.

 

Whether you are an individual wanting to chat with family or a business managing international clients, Telfon provides the tools for efficient and affordable communication. It truly simplifies calling Brazil from UK.

 

Getting Started with a Virtual Phone Number Brazil

 

Acquiring a virtual phone number Brazil through Telfon is a straightforward process. You simply sign up, select Brazil as your desired country, choose your virtual number, and start communicating. This number can receive calls from Brazil as if it were a local line, and you can use it to make outbound calls to Brazil at Telfon’s competitive rates. It’s an excellent way to maintain a professional or personal presence without the expense and complexity of setting up a physical office or local SIM card.

Call Brazil easily and affordably with Telfon – start today!

 


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Here are some common questions about calling Brazil from UK:

 

Q1: What is the full dialing code to call a mobile number in São Paulo, Brazil, from the UK?

A1: The full dialing code is 00 (UK exit code) + 55 (Brazil country code) + 11 (São Paulo area code) + 9 (mobile prefix) + [8-digit mobile number]. Or, from a mobile, it’s +55 11 9 [8-digit mobile number].

 

Q2: Are there specific times to avoid calling Brazil due to time differences?

A2: Yes, generally avoid calling late at night or very early in the morning in Brazil. For example, if it’s 10 PM in the UK during BST, it’s 6 PM in Brazil, which is usually fine. However, if it’s 2 AM in the UK, it would be 10 PM in Brazil, which might still be acceptable for personal calls, but earlier is usually better.

 

Q3: How can I reduce the cost of my UK to Brazil calls?

A3: To reduce costs, consider using VoIP services like Telfon, which offer virtual phone number Brazil options and lower per-minute rates. You can also check if your mobile provider offers international call bundles.

 

Q4: Do I need to include the ‘9’ prefix when calling a Brazilian mobile number?

A4: Yes, for most Brazilian mobile numbers, you must include the ‘9’ prefix after the area code. This was added to expand mobile numbering capacity.

 

Q5: Can I send SMS messages to Brazil from the UK?

A5: Yes, you can send SMS messages. Standard international SMS rates apply with your mobile provider. Services like Telfon also offer SMS capabilities, often at more competitive rates, including bulk SMS and broadcast messages.

 

Q6: What if my call to Brazil isn’t connecting?

A6: First, double-check the dialing sequence: exit code, country code, area code, and local number. Ensure you have the correct mobile ‘9’ prefix if applicable. Also, verify the number is active. Sometimes, network issues can occur, so try again later.

 

Q7: Is it better to use a landline or mobile for international calls to Brazil?

A7: Neither is inherently “better” for cost unless you have a specific international calling plan. Mobile phones offer convenience (using ‘+’), but both can be expensive. VoIP services and virtual numbers are generally the most cost-effective alternatives for frequent or long UK to Brazil calls.

 

Q8: What is a virtual phone number Brazil, and how does it help?

A8: A virtual phone number Brazil is a real phone number in Brazil that exists online, not tied to a physical SIM card or landline. Services like Telfon provide these. It allows people in Brazil to call you at local rates, and you can use it to make outbound calls to Brazil cheaply. It establishes a local presence and reduces costs significantly.

 

Q9: Can Telfon help my business with UK to Brazil calls?

A9: Absolutely. Telfon offers B2B features like user analytics, user management, call recordings, WhatsApp integration, and the ability to assign budgets to users. These tools are invaluable for businesses with international teams or clients in Brazil, streamlining communication and providing valuable insights.

 

Q10: What is the difference between GMT and BST when considering time differences with Brazil?

A10: GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) is the UK’s standard time in winter (UTC+0). BST (British Summer Time) is observed in summer (UTC+1). Brazil (BRT) is usually UTC-3. This means Brazil is 3 hours behind the UK during GMT and 4 hours behind during BST. Always account for which time is currently in effect in the UK.

 

Conclusion: Stay Connected with Brazil

 

Calling Brazil from UK no longer needs to be a daunting task. By understanding the correct dialing sequence, accounting for time differences, and exploring modern communication solutions, you can maintain seamless connections. Whether for personal relationships, crucial business operations, or planning your next adventure, reliable and affordable communication is within reach.

 

Traditional calling methods can be costly and complicated. However, services like Telfon revolutionize international communication, offering a simple, cost-effective, and feature-rich way to connect with Brazil. With a virtual phone number Brazil, competitive rates, and an array of powerful features for both individuals and businesses, Telfon makes international calls UK Brazil effortless.

 

Don’t let distance stand in the way of your conversations. Embrace the convenience and affordability of advanced cloud telephony. Start making your UK to Brazil calls with confidence and ease today.

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