How to Call France from the US: A Guide for SMBs and Startups

Imagine you're finalizing a deal with a client in Paris or coordinating with a partner in Lyon. You reach for your phone — but how exactly do you call France from the US? What’s the right format? How much will it cost? 

For startups and small businesses expanding across borders, mastering international communication is key. Whether you’re calling customers, partners, or team members in France, this guide has you covered. We’ll walk you through the correct dialing format, explain the France country code, and help you make reliable international calls — all while staying within budget. 

What’s the France Country Code? 

The France country code is +33. This international dialing prefix is required whenever you’re calling a French phone number from outside the country, including from the United States. It tells the phone network to route your call to France's national telephone system. 

The +33 code applies to the entire country of France, including: 

• Mainland France (Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, etc.) 
• Corsica 
• French overseas departments and territories with certain exceptions (such as Guadeloupe and Réunion, which have their own codes) 

Once your call reaches France, the country code is followed by a regional or mobile area code, which helps route your call to the correct city or service provider. 

How to Call France from the US, Step by Step 

The dialing process is similar for both landlines and mobile phones, let’s break it down: 

For Landlines in France: 

1. Dial 011 – the US exit code 
2. Dial 33 – the country code for France 
3. Dial the area code – without the leading 0 
4. Dial the local phone number 

Example: To call a number in Paris (area code 01): 011-33-1-XX-XX-XX-XX. 

For Mobile Phones in France: 

1. Dial 011 or use the + sign 
2. Dial 33 
3. Skip the first 0 of the mobile number 
4. Dial the remaining digits 

Example: A mobile number that starts with 06 becomes: 011-33-6-XX-XX-XX-XX. 

Bonus Tip

On smartphones, long-pressing “0” reveals the + symbol, it acts as a shortcut for 011. 

Common France Area Codes 

France uses a geographic area code system that starts with a digit from 1 to 5 for landlines, while mobile numbers begin with 6 or 7. When calling from abroad, drop the initial 0 from the area or mobile code and replace it with the +33 country code. 

Here are some of the most commonly used area codes in France: 

These codes ensure that your call is routed to the correct region, whether you’re reaching a business partner in Bordeaux, a remote developer in Lyon, or a supplier in Marseille. 

When Should SMBs Make International Calls? 

Whether you're managing a remote teammate in Lyon, following up with a client lead in Paris, or coordinating logistics in Marseille, international calls are often a part of doing business globally. For SMBs and startups, reaching across borders isn't a luxury, it’s a necessity. 

Timely, professional communication helps build trust, close deals, and keep projects moving. That’s why having a reliable, cost-effective phone solution — and understanding how to dial correctly — is key. It reduces the risk of failed calls, saves valuable time, and ensures every interaction reflects your business in the best light. 

How Much Does It Cost to Call Francia? 

The cost to call France from the US can vary significantly depending on your provider and whether you’re using a traditional carrier, mobile network, or a cloud phone system like DialLink. 

Traditional carriers may charge $0.30–$0.70 per minute. Some services also provide the option to purchase international calling credits or add-ons that reduce the per-minute rate. Modern cloud phone systems like DialLink offer lower per-minute rates. 

To view DialLink’s international calling rates, click here. 

Make International Calls the Easy Way with DialLink 

DialLink is a modern phone system designed specifically for SMBs and startups that need to stay connected with international partners. It’s cloud-based, AI-powered, and easy to set up — no IT help required. 

Here’s why small businesses and startups love using DialLink: 

• 24/7 AI voice agents handle inbound and outbound international calls automatically, even after hours 
• International phone numbers help you establish a presence in France 
• Mobile, desktop & desk phone apps let your team call from anywhere 
• Transparent international rates ensure you stay on budget 

Whether you're reaching out to Bordeaux, Strasbourg, or Toulouse, DialLink makes international calling easy, scalable, and affordable.