International Calling

How to Call Romania from Netherlands

Last Updated: February 4, 2026
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Connecting with friends or business partners in Romania from the Netherlands allows you to bridge the distance instantly. However, international dialing often feels confusing due to varying country codes and formats. You might worry about connection costs or dialing the wrong region. This guide simplifies the entire process for you. We ensure your calls connect clearly every time.

Understanding the correct steps saves you time and money. You will learn about essential exit codes, local area formats, and time zone differences. We also explore how modern tools like Telfon reduce costs significantly. For official global standards on dialing, you can check resources like the International Telecommunication Union. Let’s master the art of calling Romania.


The Basics of International Dialing

Making a call from the Netherlands to Romania follows a logical sequence. You cannot simply dial a local Romanian number. Your phone needs specific signals to route the call across borders.

You must first signal that the call is leaving the Netherlands. Then, you direct the call to Romania specifically. Finally, you target the exact city or mobile device.

Understanding Exit Codes and Country Codes

Every international call requires two main codes. Without these, your call will fail or connect to a local Dutch number.

The Netherlands Exit Code (00)

This is your international access code. It tells your Dutch telecom provider that you are dialing abroad. You dial 00 first when using a landline.

Romania’s Country Code (+40)

This code identifies Romania within the global telephone network. It directs your call to the Romanian national system. You dial 40 immediately after the exit code.

The Formula for Success

Combining these codes creates the foundation for your call.

  • Exit Code: 00
  • Country Code: 40
  • Result: 0040 (or +40 on mobiles)

You will place the area code and local number after this sequence. We will break this down for both landlines and mobile phones below.


How to Call Romania from a Dutch Landline

Calling from a fixed landline in the Netherlands requires precision. You must physically dial all digits. There are no shortcuts like on mobile phones.

Follow this exact order to ensure a successful connection.

Step 1: Dial the Exit Code

Pick up your receiver and listen for the dial tone. Press 00. This opens the line for international traffic.

Step 2: Enter the Country Code

Now press 40. Your call is now routing towards Romania.

Step 3: Add the Area Code

If you are calling a fixed line in Romania, you need the city code. For example, Bucharest uses 21. We will provide a list of codes later in this guide.

Step 4: Dial the Local Number

Finally, enter the subscriber’s personal number. This is usually 7 to 8 digits long.

Example for calling a Bucharest landline:

00 (Exit) + 40 (Romania) + 21 (Bucharest) + XXX XXXX (Local Number).

Dial: 00 40 21 XXX XXXX.


How to Call Romania from a Mobile Phone

Mobile phones offer a convenient shortcut for international dialing. You do not need to remember the 00 exit code. Technology handles this for you.

This method works regardless of which country you are in. It is the preferred method for travelers and digital nomads.

Using the Plus (+) Sign

Most modern smartphones have a built-in international feature. You can replace the 00 with a plus sign +.

  • Press and hold the 0 key on your keypad.
  • Wait for the + symbol to appear.
  • This symbol acts as the universal exit code.

The Mobile Dialing Sequence

Once you have the plus sign, the rest is simple.

  • Enter Country Code: Type 40 after the plus sign.
  • Add Prefix: Enter the mobile prefix or area code.
  • Finish: Type the local phone number.

Example for calling a Romanian mobile:

+ (Universal Exit) + 40 (Country Code) + 722 (Mobile Prefix) + XXX XXX (Number).

Dial: +40 722 XXX XXX.


Decoding Romanian Phone Number Formats

Romanian numbers follow a strict structure. Recognizing this structure helps you spot errors before you dial.

A standard Romanian number usually has 9 or 10 digits following the country code.

Fixed Line Structure

Landlines always connect to a specific geographic location.

  • Prefix: Starts with 2 or 3 (e.g., 021 for Bucharest).
  • Length: Usually 10 digits total (including the leading 0).
  • Note: Drop the leading 0 when dialing internationally.

Mobile Number Structure

Mobile numbers are not tied to a specific city. They are assigned to network providers.

  • Prefix: Always starts with 7 (e.g., 072, 074).
  • Length: 10 digits total.
  • Note: Again, drop the leading 0 after the country code.

If you see a number like 0722 123 456, dial +40 722 123 456.

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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.



Essential Romanian Area Codes

You need the correct area code to reach landlines in specific cities. Dialing the wrong code will connect you to a different region.

Refer to this table for major Romanian cities.

CityArea Code (Dial after +40)
Bucharest21
Cluj-Napoca264
Timișoara256
Iași232
Constanța241
Brașov268
Sibiu269
Galați236

Tip: Mobile numbers do not use these geographic codes. They use network prefixes like 72, 74, or 76.

Managing the Time Difference

Timing your call is just as important as dialing the right numbers. You want to reach people when they are available.

Netherlands vs. Romania Time Zones

Romania is geographically east of the Netherlands. Therefore, they are ahead in time.

  • Netherlands: Central European Time (CET) UTC+1.
  • Romania: Eastern European Time (EET) UTC+2.

The Difference: Romania is 1 hour ahead of the Netherlands.

Practical Scheduling

Keep this one-hour gap in mind.

  • If it is 9:00 AM in Amsterdam, it is 10:00 AM in Bucharest.
  • If it is 1:00 PM in Amsterdam, it is 2:00 PM in Bucharest.

Both countries switch to Daylight Saving Time simultaneously. Consequently, the one-hour difference remains constant throughout the year.

Best Times to Call

  • Business: Call between 08:00 and 16:00 Dutch time (09:00 – 17:00 RO time).
  • Personal: Call between 17:00 and 20:00 Dutch time.


The Cost of Calling: Traditional vs. VoIP

Calling internationally via traditional carriers can be expensive. Costs accumulate quickly.

Traditional Carrier Fees

Standard telecom providers often charge high per-minute rates for international calls.

  • Connection Fees: Many charge a fee just to start the call.
  • Rate Variance: Calling a mobile in Romania often costs more than a landline.
  • Roaming: Using your Dutch mobile abroad can trigger massive roaming charges.

The Smart Alternative

Modern businesses and individuals switch to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). This technology uses the internet to transmit calls.

This method bypasses expensive traditional phone lines. You get clearer audio and significantly lower rates. This is where solutions like Telfon excel.


Reduce Costs with Telfon

Telfon offers a superior way to connect with Romania. It is a cloud telephony solution designed for both individuals and businesses.

You can save up to 50% compared to traditional providers. Telfon transforms your device into a powerful global communication tool.

Why Choose Telfon for Romania Calls?

Telfon is not just for making calls. It is a complete communication ecosystem.

  • Global Reach: Call over 180+ countries, including Romania.
  • Flexibility: Use it on the web, iOS, or Android.

Key Features for Individuals

Stay connected with family effortlessly.

  • Pay-as-you-go: No rigid contracts. Pay only for what you use.
  • High Quality: Crystal clear voice quality over data or WiFi.
  • SMS Support: Send and receive text messages globally.

Powerful Tools for Business

Telfon serves 600+ companies with advanced needs.

  • Analytics: Track call duration and costs with detailed dashboards.
  • WhatsApp Integration: Manage multiple accounts for seamless customer support.
  • CRM Features: User management and budget assignment for teams.


Troubleshooting Your International Call

Sometimes calls fail despite dialing correctly. Here are common issues and fixes.

Check Your Connection

VoIP calls require a stable internet connection.

  • WiFi: Ensure you have a strong signal.
  • Data: 4G or 5G is recommended for clear audio.

Verify the Number

Did you include the leading zero?

  • Mistake: Dialing +40 0722…
  • Correction: Dial +40 722…
  • Always remove the local trunk code (0) when calling internationally.

Check Account Settings

If you are using a work phone, international calling might be blocked. Contact your administrator. With Telfon, you can manage these permissions directly in the dashboard.


Why Netherlands-Romania Connections Matter

The bond between these two nations is strong. Communication drives this relationship.

Business Expansion

Romania is a growing hub for IT and manufacturing. Dutch companies frequently outsource or partner with Romanian firms. Reliable communication channels are vital for these operations.

Migration and Family

Many Romanians live and work in the Netherlands. Regular calls home are essential for maintaining family bonds. Affordable calling options make this easier.

Education and Travel

Student exchanges and tourism require frequent coordination. Hotels, universities, and tour operators rely on international calls to function smoothly.

Bridge the Gap Today: Join Telfon and Start Calling Romania



Summary: Your Quick Dialing Checklist

  • Exit Code: Use 00 or +.
  • Country Code: Dial 40.
  • Area/Mobile Code: Drop the initial 0.
  • Time Zone: Remember Romania is +1 hour ahead.
  • Platform: Use Telfon to save money and gain features.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does it cost to call Romania from the Netherlands?

Costs vary by provider. Traditional carriers may charge €0.50 to €1.00+ per minute. However, VoIP apps like Telfon offer rates significantly lower, often just cents per minute.

Can I call a Romanian mobile from my Dutch landline?

Yes. Dial 00 + 40 + the mobile prefix (e.g., 722) + the number. Be aware that calling mobiles from landlines usually incurs higher charges.

What is the difference between +40 and 0040?

They are the same. 00 is the specific exit code for the Netherlands (and Europe). The + sign is the universal mobile standard that automatically inserts the correct exit code.

Does Telfon work if I am traveling outside the Netherlands?

Yes. Telfon is cloud-based. You can use it to call Romania from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection.

How do I write a Romanian number in international format?

Format it as: +40 [Prefix without 0] [Local Number]. For example: +40 722 555 123.

Can I get a Romanian phone number while living in the Netherlands?

Yes. Telfon allows you to purchase virtual numbers. You can own a Romanian +40 number to receive calls on your app in the Netherlands.

Is WhatsApp calling better than Telfon?

WhatsApp requires both parties to have the internet and the app. Telfon allows you to call actual phone numbers (landlines and mobiles) even if the recipient does not have internet access.

What if my call does not connect?

Check if you dialed the leading zero by mistake. Also, verify you have sufficient credit or a stable internet connection if using VoIP.

Do I need a business plan to use Telfon?

No. Telfon offers plans for individuals. However, business plans include advanced features like analytics, call recording, and user management.

Are there specific times I should avoid calling?

Avoid calling between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM Romanian time if trying to reach a business, as this is a common lunch hour.

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