How to Use the +381 Country Code: A Guide for SMBs and Startups

Whether you're speaking with a development partner in Belgrade or coordinating with a logistics team in Novi Sad, properly formatting Serbian phone numbers is essential for effective business communication. 

This quick guide explains how to use the 381 country code, avoid common formatting mistakes, and use DialLink’s AI-powered phone system to simplify international calls for SMBs and startups. 

What Is the 381 Country Code? 

+381 is the country code for Serbia. It must be included when dialing Serbian phone numbers from outside the country. 

Here’s what that looks like: 

• Country Code: +381 
• Serbia Area Codes: Typically 1–2 digits (e.g., 11 for Belgrade, 21 for Novi Sad) 
• Number Format: +381 XX XXX XXXX or +381 X XXX XXXX 

When dialing internationally, you must drop the local prefix (0) and add +381 to the front of the phone number. 

Common Pitfalls in International Number Formatting

Incorrect phone number formatting can lead to failed calls, bounced messages, or data errors in your CRM. Here are the most common issues SMBs face with Serbian numbers: 

• Omitting the +381 country code when saving numbers 
• Including the local prefix “0” when dialing from outside Serbia 
• Incorrect area code assumptions — area codes vary by region and may not be intuitive 
• Inconsistent formatting across systems, causing syncing and call automation issues 

Using the correct international format (e.g., +381113456789) is essential for seamless communication across systems. 

Make International Calling Easy with DialLink 

DialLink is an AI-powered cloud phone system built for SMBs and startups. Whether you're expanding to Eastern Europe or managing global clients, DialLink makes it easy to connect with Serbian contacts without the technical headaches of traditional phone systems. 

Why DialLink is ideal for international communication: 

• 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 Serbian contacts 

Common Serbian Number Format Examples 

How to Read and Format Serbian Numbers 

Serbian numbers are structured as follows: 

• +381 — Country code for Serbia 
• Area Code — 1 to 2 digits (e.g., 11 for Belgrade) 
• Subscriber Number — Typically 6 to 7 digits 

When dialing internationally, remove the local trunk prefix “0” and prepend +381. For example: 

• Local Format: 063 123 4567 
• International Format: +381 63 123 4567 

This ensures your calls are correctly routed, and that numbers are compatible with CRMs and VoIP systems. 

Format Variations 

• International Format (E.164): +381631234567 — used in CRMs and cloud-based phone systems for standardization. 
• Local Format (in Serbia): 063 123 4567 — includes the leading “0” when calling within the country. 
• Long-Distance Format (from the U.S. or Canada): 011 381 63 123 4567 — uses “011” as the international access code. 
• International Dialing Format (from UK/EU): 00 381 63 123 4567 — uses “00” as the international dialing prefix. 

Best Practices for SMBs 

• Use full international format (+381 XX XXX XXXX) for all Serbian contacts 
• Remove the local trunk prefix “0” when dialing or saving numbers internationally 
• Standardize number formats across CRM, dialers, and messaging platforms 

By understanding how each part of a Serbian phone number works, SMBs can reduce miscommunication, improve call connection rates, and maintain a professional image in international interactions.