How to Use the +47 Country Code: A Guide for SMBs and Startups

Whether you’re collaborating with a fintech startup in Oslo or supporting a client in Bergen, understanding how to dial Norwegian phone numbers using the 47 country code is crucial for seamless international communication.

This guide will help you navigate Norwegian phone number formats, avoid common mistakes, and understand how cloud phone systems like DialLink support international communication for small businesses and startups.

What Is the 47 Country Code?

+47 is the international dialing code for Norway. It’s required when making phone calls or sending messages to Norwegian phone numbers from outside the country.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Country Code: +47
• Number Format: +47 XXX XX XXX

Norwegian phone numbers are generally 8 digits long and do not use area codes in the traditional sense. All phone numbers — whether mobile or landline — are dialed in the same format.

Common Pitfalls in International Number Formatting

Even a small mistake in number formatting can result in a failed connection or misrouted message. Here are the most common issues businesses encounter when dialing Norwegian phone numbers:

• Omitting the +47 country code – A common error that leads to failed calls.
• Adding a trunk prefix (like 0) – Norway doesn’t use a national trunk prefix; international calls should never include a leading zero.
• Incorrect formatting in contact databases – Inconsistent number formats in your CRM or VoIP system can cause lookup errors or failed messaging.
• Treating all phone numbers as mobile – While Norway uses the same format for landlines and mobiles, the starting digits often vary. Mobiles typically begin with 4 or 9.

To avoid communication issues, standardize all phone numbers in your system using the international E.164 format.

Make International Calling Easy with DialLink

DialLink is the cloud phone system built for SMBs and startups looking to scale globally without added complexity or cost.

Here’s how DialLink makes calling Norway effortless:

• International calls – Make affordable international calls with no complex setup or hidden fees
• AI voice agents – Automate routine calls, like client support or booking inquiries
• Mobile, desktop, and desk phone support – Make calls anytime, from anywhere
• Professional call handling tools – Voicemail, call routing, transcripts, and more
• Business messaging – Send and receive messages from Norwegian contacts

Common Norwegian Number Format Examples

*Note: Norwegian toll-free numbers may not be reachable from outside Norway.

How to Read and Format Norwegian Numbers

Norwegian phone numbers have a consistent length of 8 digits and don’t require separate area codes. Here’s what each part of the number means:

• +47 – This is the international dialing code for Norway. Required when calling from abroad.
• First digit – Indicates the type of service (e.g., 2 for landlines, 4/9 for mobiles, 8 for toll-free or premium numbers).
• Remaining digits – Complete the subscriber number.

Format Variations

• International Format (E.164): +4791234567 — Used for standardized contact management
• Local Format (in Norway): 912 34 567 — Used for dialing within the country
• International Dialing Format (from the US): 011 47 912 34 567 — Replace 011 with the exit code of the country you're calling from

Best Practices for SMBs

• Use the +47 format for all entries in your CRM, VoIP system, and messaging tools
• Do not add a leading zero when dialing from abroad
• Ensure consistency in formatting across your CRM, phone system, and communication tools.
• Avoid storing numbers without country or area codes — this leads to failed calls or misrouted messages.

By following these practices, your business can maintain reliable, consistent communication with partners and clients in Norway.