How to Call Bulgaria from the USA?

Calling Bulgaria from the US requires using the correct international dialing format, including the exit and country code, followed by the recipient’s number. Whether you are calling a landline, mobile, or a toll-free number, following the correct structure ensures your call connects without issues.

1. US Exit Code: To place an international call from the US, begin with 011, which is the US exit code. Alternatively, 011 can be replaced with the “+” symbol for simpler dialing.
2. Bulgaria Country Code: Bulgaria’s country code is 359. This code must be dialed after the US exit code or the “+” symbol.

3. Landline Number: When calling a Bulgarian landline, the number includes an area code followed by the subscriber number. In Bulgaria, landline area codes can be 1 to 4 digits, and the subscriber number length changes accordingly from 6 digits down to 2 digits, excluding the trunk prefix.
   
   Unlike many other countries, Bulgaria uses 0 as a trunk prefix for domestic landline calls. However, when calling from the US, you must omit it.
   
   Here are a few major cities in Bulgaria and their corresponding area codes.

   Popular Cities in Bulgaria	Area Codes	Popular Cities in Bulgaria	Area Codes
   Sofia	2	Sliven	44
   Plovdiv	32	Dobrich	58
   Varna	52	Montana	96
   Burgas	56	Kardjali	361
   Rousse	82	Gabrovo	66
   Stara Zagora	42	Lovetch	68
   Pleven	64	Gotse Delchev	751
   Vratsa	92	-	-

4. Mobile Number: Bulgarian mobile numbers are 9 digits long (including the mobile prefix). Common prefixes include 88 (A1), 89 (Yettel), and 87 (Vivacom).
   
   Similar to landline numbers, when calling a Bulgarian mobile number from the US, you must remove the trunk code “0” used in local dialing.
5. Toll-free Number: Toll-free numbers in Bulgaria start with the prefix 800 and are usually eight digits long.

Calling Bulgaria from the US requires dialing 011 (the US exit code) or the “+” sign, followed by 359 (Bulgaria’s country code), and then the recipient’s number (8 digits for landlines and toll-free numbers, and 9 digits for mobile).

To call a Bulgarian landline number from the US, dial the US exit code 011 or the “+” sign, followed by Bulgaria’s country code 359, then enter the eight-digit landline number.

1. Exit Code: Dial 011 or use the “+” sign to start an international call from the US.
2. Country Code: Enter 359, which is the country code for Bulgaria.
3. Area Code: Dial the Bulgarian area code for the city or region.
4. Subscriber Number: Enter the subscriber number.

Calling a Bulgarian mobile number from the US requires dialing the US exit code 011 or the “+” sign, followed by Bulgaria’s country code 359, then the nine-digit mobile number.

1. Exit Code: Dial 011 or use the “+” sign.
2. Country Code: Enter 359, which is the Bulgaria country code.
3. Mobile Number: Enter the 9-digit mobile number.

When calling a Bulgarian toll-free number from the US, dial the US exit code 011 or “+”, followed by Bulgaria’s country code 359, then the 8-digit number.

1. Exit Code: Start by dialing 011 or using the “+” sign.
2. Country Code: Enter 359, which is the country code of Bulgaria.
3. Toll-free Prefix: Dial the Bulgarian toll-free prefix, usually 800.
4. Subscriber Number: Enter the remaining 5-digits of the toll-free number.

Note: Some Bulgarian toll-free numbers may not accept calls from outside Bulgaria. If the call does go through, international calling rates may apply depending on your phone service provider.

The best time to call Bulgaria from the US for business purposes is generally when it is 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Bulgaria, which corresponds to early morning time in the US. For personal calls, choose a time when the recipient is likely to be available.

Bulgaria follows Eastern European Time (EET, UTC+2) and observes Eastern European Summer Time (EEST, UTC+3) during daylight saving. On the other hand, the US spans multiple time zones (Eastern, Central, Mountain, Pacific, etc.), so the time difference varies from 7 to 13 hours depending on the US location.

The table below outlines the time differences and the optimal windows to place your calls during Bulgaria's standard working day:

Note: These times may shift by one hour during daylight saving periods, as both the US and Bulgaria observe daylight saving time.

<>pCalling Bulgaria from the US can cost approximately $1.99 to $3.00 per minute with a traditional carrier, $0.04 to $0.56 per minute using a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service, and $0.005 to $0.029 per minute with calling cards. For free calls, Wi-Fi-calling apps are a reliable option; however, both you and the recipient must have the app installed and a reliable internet connection.

Calling Bulgaria through traditional US carriers (such as AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile) is often the most expensive option. Standard international rates can range from $1.99 to $3.00 per minute or more. Some carriers offer discounted packages, but without a plan, costs can add up quickly.

VoIP services can be a cost-effective way to call Bulgaria from the US, as they use the internet instead of traditional phone networks. Calling rates usually range from $0.04 to $0.56 per minute, depending on the provider and whether you are calling a landline or mobile number.

International calling cards can offer very competitive rates for contacting Bulgaria from the US, ranging from $0.005 to $0.029 per minute. However, the actual cost may vary due to factors such as connection fees, rounding policies, weekly charges, or limited validity periods. It is important to carefully review the plan details and terms before purchasing to avoid any unexpected charges.

You can also use internet calling apps such as WhatsApp, Viber, and Messenger to contact someone in Bulgaria at no cost, provided both of you are on the same app and connected online. These are often the most economical and convenient options for personal communication.

Connecting with Bulgaria from the US becomes simple once you understand the correct dialing format and timing. By using the right combination of exit code, country code, and number structure, you can avoid common errors and ensure your calls go through smoothly, whether you’re reaching a landline, mobile, or toll-free number.

At the same time, choosing the right calling method can make a significant difference in cost and convenience. From traditional carriers to VoIP services and internet-based apps, there are multiple options available depending on your needs and budget. Among these options, VoIP service is the most reliable and cost-effective option.