How to Call Thailand from the USA? A Step-by-Step Guideline

Before dialing Thailand from the USA, consider the international number format of Thailand, which includes the exit code, the Thailand country code, the area code, and the subscriber number. Paying attention to each part ensures that your call is efficient, accurate, and reaches the right person without any issues.

Exit codes, also known as international access codes or international direct dialing (IDD) codes, route your calls internationally. To make an international call from the US, you must first dial the USA exit code, i.e, 011. When calling Thailand from a cell phone, you can replace the exit code with ‘+’.

To call Thailand from abroad, you must include the Thailand country code +66 after the exit code. It’s essential for connecting your call to the correct network within Thailand.

An area code is a part of a phone number that identifies a specific region or city in the country. Thailand’s area codes are typically 2 to 3 digits long. However, you must drop the initial “0” when calling from overseas. For example, dial “2” instead of “02” to connect your calls to Bangkok.

Here are some popular Thailand area codes:

A mobile prefix identifies the mobile network provider in Thailand. It usually starts with 06, 08, or 09. Like area codes, you must also drop the first ‘0’ of the mobile prefix when calling Thailand from abroad.

Here are some popular Thailand Mobile prefixes:

The subscriber number is the unique local number assigned to an individual or business. For both landlines and mobile phones in Thailand, the subscriber number is typically 7- 8 digits long.

To call Thailand from the US, dial the US exit code ‘011’, then Thailand’s country code ‘66’, followed by the area code (without the leading zero), and then the local number. If you’re calling a mobile number, use the mobile prefix instead of the area code.

To call a Thai landline from the US, dial 011 (the USA exit code), followed by 66 (Thailand’s country code), the area code without the leading zero, and then the landline number.

• Step 1: Dial the US exit code “011”.
• Step 2: Enter Thailand’s country code “66”.
• Step 3: Add the Thai area code without the leading zero.
• Step 4: Dial the 6-8 digit Thai local landline number.

To call a Thai mobile number from the United States, dial the US exit code 011 or +, then enter Thailand's country code 66, followed by the mobile prefix (without the leading zero), and the mobile number.

• Step 1: Dial “011” or “+” (when calling from a mobile).
• Step 2: Enter Thailand’s country code “66”.
• Step 3: Add the mobile prefix (omit its leading 0).
• Step 4: Dial the 7–8 digit mobile number.

The best time to call from America to Thailand is 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the official business hours in the country. For personal calls, consider calling in the early evenings.

Be mindful that the USA and Thailand operate in different time zones. Thailand follows Indochina Time (ICT), which is UTC+7, while the US has multiple time zones. Consider the time difference to avoid calling at an inappropriate time for your recipient.

The cost of calling from the USA to Thailand typically ranges from a few cents to $3. However, the exact cost varies based on your service provider. The cost can also vary depending on whether you’re calling from a mobile or landline.

Here’s how much it costs to call Thailand from the US with some major US carriers:

If you’re looking for the cheapest way to call Thailand from the US, you can use internet calling apps, VoIP services, and prepaid calling cards. These options offer lower or free international calls.

Apps like WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook Messenger let you make free calls to Thailand over Wi-Fi or mobile data. However, you and the person you’re calling must use the same app for calls.

A virtual phone number lets you call Thailand at much lower rates, often without the need for a mobile plan or SIM card. Since it only needs an internet connection and can be used on your existing device, there's no need for special equipment, further reducing costs.

Prepaid international calling cards provide a budget-friendly option for making calls to Thailand. You can purchase these cards online or in-store, then use them from your mobile or landline. To make calls, simply dial the access code, PIN number, and the recipient’s phone number.

Calling Thailand from the US is straightforward once you know the right steps, involving different unique codes and prefixes. Alternative options, such as internet calling apps, virtual numbers, and calling cards, can also help you save money when making international calls.

Among these, a virtual phone number stands out as the best option for a smooth and affordable call. Calilio’s virtual phone number, for instance, allows you to make international calls at competitive rates while enjoying additional benefits like call forwarding, call recording, and call reporting. Additionally, you can also get a Thai virtual phone number to call Thailand from the US or any other country at a local rate.