How to Call Ireland from the UK? Step-by-Step Guide

When calling Ireland from the UK, you must know the UK exit code, Ireland’s country code, and the local number.

The exit code comes first in any international phone number format. The code instructs your phone network to make an international call. For the UK, the exit code is 00. However, you can also replace this code with a ‘+’ signal when dialing from a mobile phone.

A country code is a unique number assigned to each country for international dialing. The country code for Ireland is 353, and it should come right after the exit code when dialing. This code helps route your call to the correct country.

A local number refers to the subscriber’s phone number. For landline calls in Ireland, it comes after the area code and usually contains five to seven digits. In the case of mobile numbers, it follows the mobile prefix, which typically begins with 08x. Unlike landlines, Irish mobile numbers have a fixed length and consist of ten digits in total, including the prefix.

To call from the UK to Ireland, dial the UK exit code, followed by the Ireland country code, and the local number.

To call an Irish landline phone number from the UK, dial 00 (UK exit code) or “+” sign, 353 (Irish country code), the area code, and the local landline number.

• Step 1: Dial the UK exit code, i.e., 00 or (+) sign.
• Step 2: Enter Ireland’s country code, i.e., 353.
• Step 3: Dial the area code (omitting the initial ‘0’).
• Step 4: Enter the local landline phone number.

To dial an Irish mobile number from the UK, dial 00 (UK exit code) or “+” sign, “353” the Irish country code, and the mobile number.

• Step 1: Enter the UK’s exit code, i.e., 00 or “+”.
• Step 2: Dial Ireland’s country code, i.e., 353.
• Step 3: Enter the recipient's mobile number, omitting the leading 0.

The best time to call Ireland from the UK is between 9:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., which is Ireland’s standard business hours. Since both countries share the same time zone, you don’t need to worry about time differences.

However, it’s best to avoid calling early in the morning, late at night, during lunchtime (around 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.), or on weekends or public holidays, as these times may not be convenient for the recipient.

The most cost-effective ways to dial Ireland from the UK are to use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, calling cards, or online calling apps such as Messenger, WhatsApp, and Viber.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone service providers offer virtual phone numbers. These numbers allow you to make calls over the internet and often charge less for international calls than traditional carriers. Also, you can configure them on your existing mobile phone, avoiding the expenses for additional infrastructure.

Apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram, and Viber offer free calls to Ireland from the UK. However, both the caller and the receiver must use the same app to connect. Plus, you must ensure a robust internet connection for high-quality sound.

Calling cards are prepaid cards that allow you to make international calls at lower rates. They can be used on any compatible phone while dialing Ireland from the UK. To make a call using a calling card, simply purchase the card, enter the access code and PIN, and then dial the number you want to call to connect.

When calling Ireland from the UK, avoid dialing the wrong format, calling at inappropriate times, and not considering international calling costs. Also, keep in mind that toll-free numbers may not be free when dialing internationally.

• Wrong Number Format: Follow the proper international dialing format. Always start with the exit code, followed by the country code, area code, and the local number.
• Calling at an Inappropriate Time: Although Ireland and the UK share the same time zone, avoid calling too early in the morning or too late in the evening.
• Not Checking Call Plans: To avoid unexpected charges, always check your call plan and be aware of any additional costs for international dialing.
• Misunderstanding Toll-free Numbers’ Cost: Irish toll-free numbers are usually free only within Ireland. Before calling from the UK, check if the number is available for international calls.

Calling Ireland from the UK is simple once you know the right format, prefixes, and codes. However, you must also consider the calling cost besides the dialing format, as international calling costs are typically higher. If you’re a frequent caller, using calling cards, online apps, or virtual numbers can help reduce costs.