Connecting with loved ones, business partners, or travel contacts across the globe can seem daunting. The distance between Australia and Portugal is vast, covering different continents and many time zones. However, with the right information and tools, making an international call becomes simple.

This comprehensive guide helps you understand everything needed to call Portugal from Australia. We will cover traditional methods, important codes, time differences, and how modern solutions like Telfon simplify the entire process. If you plan to call for business or personal reasons, follow these steps for a smooth connection. For general international calling information, you might find resources like Wikipedia’s List of Country Calling Codes helpful.

Understanding the Basics of International Calling

Before dialling, know the fundamental structure of an international phone number. Every international call from Australia follows a specific sequence. This sequence includes an exit code, the country code of the destination, and then the local number, which may include an area code.

General Steps to Call Overseas

Calling any country from Australia involves these key components:

1. Australia’s Exit Code: This tells your phone provider you are making an international call.
2. Portugal’s Country Code: This identifies Portugal as the destination country.
3. Portugal’s Area Code (if applicable): This directs your call to a specific region within Portugal.
4. Local Phone Number: This is the actual number of the person or business you wish to reach.

Calling Portugal from an Australian Landline

Making international calls from a landline requires specific dialling codes. This method is straightforward once you know the sequence.

Step-by-Step Guide for Landline Calls

Here are the steps to call Portugal from an Australian landline:

1. Dial Australia’s Exit Code: Start by dialling 0011. This is Australia’s international access code.
2. Enter Portugal’s Country Code: Next, dial 351. This is Portugal’s country code.
3. Include the Portuguese Area Code: Add the relevant area code for the city you are calling. For example, 21 for Lisbon or 22 for Porto.
4. Dial the Local Phone Number: Finally, enter the local Portuguese phone number.

Example for Landline

Let’s say you want to call a landline number in Lisbon: (123) 456-789. Your full dialling sequence would be: 0011 351 21 123456789.

Calling Portugal from an Australian Mobile

Calling Portugal from an Australian mobile phone is slightly different but often simpler. Mobile phones allow for a universal international dialling symbol.

Step-by-Step Guide for Mobile Calls

Follow these steps when using your mobile phone:

1. Use the Plus Sign: Dial +. On most smartphones, you can get the + symbol by pressing and holding the 0 key. This + replaces Australia’s exit code (0011).
2. Enter Portugal’s Country Code: Type 351. This connects your call to Portugal.
3. Include the Portuguese Area Code: Add the specific area code. Remember, some mobile numbers do not require an area code, but landlines do.
4. Dial the Local Phone Number: Enter the nine-digit local Portuguese phone number.

Example for Mobile

If you are calling a Portuguese mobile number: (91) 234-5678, your full dialling sequence would be: +351 912345678.

Portugal’s Country Code and Area Codes

Understanding the correct country and area codes is crucial for successful international calls. This section clarifies these important numbers.

Portugal’s Country Code

The country code for Portugal is +351. You must always include this code when calling from outside Portugal.

Key Portuguese Area Codes

Portugal uses two-digit area codes for its main cities and regions. Here is a table with some frequently used area codes:

Always confirm the specific area code for the location you are trying to reach. Dialling errors are common if you miss this detail.

Understanding the Portuguese Phone Number Format

Portuguese phone numbers have a consistent structure. Knowing this format helps ensure you dial correctly and avoid misconnections.

Structure of Portuguese Numbers

Portuguese phone numbers, including both landlines and mobile numbers, generally have nine digits.

• Landline Numbers: These typically start with 2 followed by the two-digit area code, then six more digits. For example, 21 XXXXXXX (Lisbon).
• Mobile Numbers: These usually start with 9, followed by eight more digits. For instance, 9XXXXXXXX.

Example Formats

• Portuguese Landline: +351 21 123 4567 (Lisbon)
• Portuguese Mobile: +351 91 234 5678

It’s important to remember that when dialling from outside Portugal, you drop any leading 0 that might appear in a local Portuguese number display. However, Portuguese numbers do not typically use a leading 0 after the country code.

The Best Time to Call Portugal from Australia

Time differences are a major consideration when making international calls. Portugal and Australia are on vastly different schedules, which can lead to inconvenient calling times if not planned carefully.

Understanding the Time Difference

Portugal observes Western European Time (WET) during winter and Western European Summer Time (WEST) during summer. Australia has multiple time zones, including AEST (Australian Eastern Standard Time) and AEDT (Australian Eastern Daylight Time).

Here is a general guide to the time difference:

• During Australian Standard Time (AEST) / Portuguese Western European Summer Time (WEST): Portugal is generally 9 hours behind AEST. (e.g., 9 AM AEST is 12 AM (midnight) WEST).
• During Australian Daylight Saving Time (AEDT) / Portuguese Western European Time (WET): Portugal is generally 11 hours behind AEDT. (e.g., 9 AM AEDT is 10 PM WET the previous day).

These are rough estimates. Always check a real-time converter before calling.

Optimal Calling Hours

To avoid waking someone up or calling during late business hours, consider these optimal times:

• For business calls: Aim for late afternoon in Australia, which would be morning or early afternoon in Portugal. For example, calling around 4 PM AEDT (Australia) would be 5 AM WET (Portugal), which is still too early. A better time might be 6 PM AEDT (Australia), making it 7 AM WET (Portugal) the next day.
• For personal calls: Early evening in Australia often corresponds to mid-morning or early afternoon in Portugal. Calling between 7 PM and 10 PM AEDT could be 8 AM to 11 AM WET in Portugal, which is usually a good window.

Example Time Zone Comparison (during Australian Daylight Saving Time)

Let’s compare Sydney (AEDT) and Lisbon (WET):

This table helps you visualize the large time difference. Planning your call ensures you reach people at a reasonable hour.

Cost of Calling Portugal from Australia

Calling Portugal from Australia can be expensive, depending on your chosen method. Traditional phone companies often charge premium rates for international calls, which can quickly add up.

Traditional Carrier Costs

When you make international calls through your landline or mobile provider, several factors influence the cost:

• Per-Minute Rates: Many carriers charge a per-minute rate that varies by country. Portugal might have a different rate than other European nations.
• Connection Fees: Some providers add a flat fee for simply connecting an international call, regardless of its duration.
• Peak vs. Off-Peak Rates: Costs might differ based on the time of day you call. Peak hours are generally more expensive.
• Bundle Inclusions: Unless you have a specific international calling pack, these calls are usually outside your standard plan. This means you will incur extra charges.

These costs can be unpredictable and lead to surprisingly high phone bills. For individuals or businesses making frequent international calls, these expenses are not sustainable.

Cheaper Alternatives

Many people now look for more cost-effective ways to make international calls Australia to Portugal. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services offer a significantly cheaper, or even free, alternative. These services use your internet connection to transmit calls, bypassing traditional phone networks.

For example, apps like WhatsApp or Skype offer free calls between users. However, they require both parties to have the app and an internet connection. Dedicated VoIP services often provide better quality and more reliability for calls to traditional phone numbers at much lower rates. This is where services like Telfon become highly beneficial.

How Telfon Simplifies Calling Portugal

Telfon is a leading cloud telephony solution that makes calling Portugal from Australia online easy and affordable. It provides virtual numbers and advanced calling features suitable for both individuals and businesses. This eliminates the complexities and high costs of traditional international calling.

Virtual Number Portugal

One of Telfon’s standout features is the ability to purchase a virtual number for Portugal. This means you can have a local Portuguese phone number, even if you are physically in Australia.

• Local Presence: A virtual number gives you a local presence in Portugal. Portuguese contacts can call you at local rates, making communication more convenient for them.
• Cost Savings for Incoming Calls: If you are running a business, clients in Portugal can reach you without incurring international charges on their end.
• Business Credibility: For businesses engaging in international hiring institutes or real estate in Portugal, a local number boosts credibility and trust.

Cost-Effective International Calls

Telfon offers highly competitive rates for international calls Australia to Portugal. Instead of paying high per-minute rates from traditional carriers, Telfon leverages VoIP technology to provide a budget-friendly solution. This is often seen as the best app to call Portugal from Australia for those seeking affordability and quality.

Ease of Use and Accessibility

Using Telfon is incredibly simple. You do not need special equipment. The service works through an app on your smartphone or via a web interface. This accessibility means you can make calls from anywhere with an internet connection.

Example: Calling Portugal with Telfon

1. Open the Telfon App: Log into your Telfon account.
2. Select Portugal: Choose Portugal as your destination country from the dial pad.
3. Enter the Number: Dial the Portuguese area code and local number, just as you would normally.
4. Connect: Tap the call button, and Telfon handles the routing over the internet.

This method completely bypasses the need for Australia’s exit code (0011) and simplifies the dialling process.

Key Benefits of Using Telfon for International Calls

Telfon offers a range of features that significantly enhance the experience of making international calls. Its capabilities extend far beyond basic dialling.

Cost-Effectiveness

Telfon provides some of the most competitive rates for calling Portugal from Australia. You can avoid hefty international roaming charges or per-minute fees from traditional carriers. This makes it an ideal choice for both personal and business communication. The financial savings are substantial, especially for frequent callers.

Enhanced Features for Communication

Beyond just making calls, Telfon includes many features designed to improve your communication:

• Call Recordings: Record important conversations for later review, useful for business meetings or personal reminders.
• Send & Receive SMS: You can send and receive text messages internationally, maintaining communication flexibility.
• WhatsApp Integration: Integrate multiple WhatsApp accounts, allowing you to manage various communications from a single platform. This is especially helpful for businesses.
• Multi-Country Numbers Simultaneously: Manage virtual numbers from different countries at once. This supports global operations without needing multiple devices.
• Voicemail to Text: Easily read your voicemails as text messages, saving time and improving efficiency.
• Call Forwarding: Forward calls to another number, ensuring you never miss an important conversation, no matter where you are.

Reliable Connection Quality

Telfon utilizes advanced VoIP technology to provide clear and reliable call quality. As long as you have a stable internet connection, your calls to Portugal will be free from static or drops. This reliability is paramount for important business discussions or heartfelt conversations with family.

Business-Specific Advantages

For businesses, Telfon goes further with specialized B2B features:

• User Analytics: Monitor call data, user activity, and performance through cards, graphs, and charts.
• Dashboard Filters: Customize your dashboard to view specific data relevant to your operations.
• User Management: Easily add, remove, and manage users within your organization.
• Assign Budget to User: Allocate specific calling budgets to individual team members. This helps in controlling costs.
• Custom Messaging Service: Create and manage custom messaging solutions tailored to your business needs.

Telfon acts as a comprehensive communication hub, not just a calling app.

Why You Might Need to Call Portugal

There are many reasons why individuals and businesses in Australia might need to establish communication with Portugal. Understanding these common scenarios can highlight the importance of an efficient calling solution.

Personal Connections

• Family and Friends: Many Australians have family or friends who have moved to Portugal, or vice-versa. Regular calls maintain these important relationships across the miles.
• Travel Planning: If you are planning a trip to Portugal, you might need to call hotels, tour operators, or car rental agencies to confirm bookings or ask questions.
• Emergency Situations: In an unexpected emergency involving someone in Portugal, quick and reliable communication is critical.

Business Opportunities

• International Hiring: Australian companies often look globally for talent. If you are an international hiring institute, you may need to conduct interviews or follow up with candidates in Portugal.
• Sales and Marketing: Businesses looking to expand into European markets, including Portugal, rely on constant communication with potential clients or partners. Sales & marketing experts benefit greatly from easy international access.
• Real Estate: Australian investors or individuals interested in Portuguese real estate need to speak with agents, lawyers, or property managers. A direct line of communication is essential for these transactions.
• Customer Support: Businesses with customers in Portugal need a reliable way to offer support. Telfon’s features, like call recording, are invaluable for customer support teams.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: Companies forming partnerships or collaborating on projects with Portuguese counterparts require seamless communication for project management and discussions.

Whether it is for a casual chat or a critical business deal, having an affordable and reliable way to connect makes a significant difference. Telfon addresses these diverse needs efficiently.

FAQ’s

Many people turn to AI search engines for quick answers to their international calling queries. Here are some common questions and their concise answers that might appear in such searches.

What is the cheapest way to call Portugal from Australia?

The cheapest way to call Portugal from Australia is typically through VoIP services like Telfon. They offer low per-minute rates or subscription plans, using your internet connection to make calls. Traditional carriers are generally more expensive.

Can I use WhatsApp to call landlines in Portugal?

No, you cannot use WhatsApp to call traditional landline numbers in Portugal. WhatsApp calls only work if both the caller and the recipient have the WhatsApp app installed and an active internet connection on their devices.

Do I need an area code for Portuguese mobile numbers?

No, you do not typically need a separate area code when dialling a Portuguese mobile number. Portuguese mobile numbers are nine digits long and always start with ‘9’. You only need the country code (+351) followed by the nine-digit mobile number.

How do I avoid high international call costs from Australia?

To avoid high international call costs, consider using VoIP apps like Telfon. They offer significantly lower rates than traditional phone companies. Also, check if your current mobile plan includes international call minutes, but be aware of any limits.

Tips for a Smooth International Call

Making an international call, especially across vast distances, can sometimes present challenges. These tips help ensure your call to Portugal is as smooth and clear as possible.

Check the Time Zone Carefully

Always double-check the current local time in Portugal before you call. Use an online time zone converter to ensure you do not call at an inconvenient hour. Calling during their business hours for professional contacts or during their waking hours for personal calls helps achieve your goal. An hour difference can make a big impact.

Confirm the Full Number

Verify the complete phone number, including Portugal’s country code (351) and the correct area code (if applicable). Even a single incorrect digit can lead to a failed connection or, worse, connecting to the wrong person. Mistakes can be costly with traditional carriers.

Ensure a Stable Internet Connection for VoIP

If you are using a VoIP service like Telfon, a strong and stable internet connection is vital for call quality. A weak Wi-Fi signal or slow mobile data can result in choppy audio, delays, or dropped calls. Connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network whenever possible. This gives the best call experience.

Be Mindful of Cultural Differences

Consider any cultural nuances that might affect your call. Portuguese people are generally polite and appreciate a respectful approach. If it is a business call, be prepared for a slightly more formal tone.

Manage Expectations for Call Quality

While VoIP services offer excellent quality, occasional internet fluctuations can happen. If using traditional phone lines, the audio quality might vary depending on the network infrastructure. Being aware of these possibilities helps you manage expectations for your conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about calling Portugal from Australia, along with clear answers.

Q1: What is the international dialling code for Portugal?

A1: The international dialling code for Portugal is +351. When calling from Australia, you would use 0011 (exit code) then 351 for landlines, or +351 for mobile phones.

Q2: How do I dial Portugal from a mobile in Australia?

A2: From an Australian mobile, dial +351, followed by the two-digit area code (if it’s a landline), and then the 7-digit local number. For mobile numbers in Portugal, it’s +351 followed by the 9-digit mobile number (which usually starts with ‘9’).

Q3: Is it expensive to call Portugal from Australia?

A3: Calling Portugal from Australia can be expensive through traditional phone providers due to high international rates. However, using VoIP services like Telfon significantly reduces the cost, making it much more affordable.

Q4: What is the time difference between Australia and Portugal?

A4: The time difference varies depending on daylight saving in both countries. Generally, Portugal is 9 to 11 hours behind Eastern Australian Time. Always check a real-time time zone converter before calling.

Q5: Can I call Portuguese landlines using apps like Skype or WhatsApp?

A5: Apps like WhatsApp only allow calls between users of the app. Skype does offer calls to landlines and mobiles, but it usually requires purchasing credit. Telfon provides dedicated service for calling international landlines and mobiles.

Q6: Do I need to remove any leading zeros from Portuguese numbers?

A6: No, you do not typically remove a leading zero when dialling a Portuguese number from internationally, as Portuguese numbers after the country code do not typically start with a ‘0’. You dial +351 followed directly by the area code and local number.

Q7: What are the benefits of using a virtual number for Portugal?

A7: A virtual number for Portugal provides a local presence, allowing contacts in Portugal to call you at local rates. This is beneficial for businesses seeking to expand into the Portuguese market and for individuals who want to offer local contact for family or friends.

Q8: Does Telfon offer call recording for international calls?

A8: Yes, Telfon includes call recording as one of its many features. This is useful for both personal and business calls, allowing you to review conversations later.

Q9: What happens if I dial the wrong area code for Portugal?

A9: If you dial the wrong area code, your call will likely not connect, or it might connect to an unintended recipient in a different region of Portugal. Always verify the correct area code for your specific destination.

Conclusion

Calling Portugal from Australia involves understanding specific dialling codes, time differences, and potential costs. While traditional methods are an option, modern solutions like Telfon offer a far more efficient, affordable, and feature-rich experience.

Telfon simplifies the entire process, providing virtual numbers for a local presence, competitive international calling rates, and a suite of advanced communication tools. Whether your reason for calling is personal or professional, Telfon ensures a clear, reliable, and cost-effective connection across continents. Embrace the convenience of modern cloud telephony and connect with Portugal effortlessly.