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Calling the China from UK
How to Call China from the UK?
To call China from the United Kingdom, dial the UK international exit code, China’s country code, followed by the area code (for landlines) and the local phone number.
China uses its own telephone numbering system, so you must enter the full international dialing code when placing a call from the UK. The country code for China is 86, and landline numbers include a city-based area code, whereas mobile numbers are entered directly without an area code.
To call China from the UK, dial:
Landline: 00 + 86 + area code + local number
Mobile: 00 + 86 + mobile number
Calling a Chinese Landline/Mobile Number from the UK
Calling a China from the UK
Follow these steps when calling China from the United Kingdom:
Dial the UK exit code
The prefix “00” is used to start all international calls from the UK.
Dial China’s country code
China’s country code is 86, which connects your call to China’s phone network.
Dial the area code (for landlines only)
Enter the city-based area code, for example, 10 for Beijing or 21 for Shanghai.
Dial the local number
Enter the recipient’s landline or mobile number to complete the call.
Note: Many 800 toll-free numbers in China only work inside China and may not connect from the UK. Some 400 numbers may work internationally, depending on the provider.
Dialing Codes Involved While Calling China from the UK
When calling China from the United Kingdom, you need to use a few dialing components that work together to route your call internationally. These include the UK international access code, China’s country code, area code, and the local number.
1. UK Exit Code
The international access code for calling outside the UK is 00. This tells the network that your call is going to another country.
2. China Country Code
China’s country code is 86, and it is required when making any international call to China from outside the country. This code directs your call to China's national telephone network before connecting you to the correct city or mobile number.
3. Area Code
For landline numbers, you must include a city-specific area code, such as 10 for Beijing or 21 for Shanghai. It helps route the call to the correct region within China. Mobile numbers do not require an area code.
Here’s a list of popular area codes in China:
City/Region | Area Code |
| Beijing | 21 |
| Shanghai | 20 |
| Guangzhou | 755 |
| Shenzhen | 28 |
| Chengdu | 571 |
| Hangzhou | 25 |
| Nanjing | 27 |
| Wuhan | 712 |
| Xiaogan | 23 |
| Qingdao | 532 |
| Dalian | 411 |
| Harbin | 451 |
| Suzhou | 512 |
4. Subscriber Number
The subscriber number is the final part of the dialing sequence. It is the individual phone number assigned to the person or business you are trying to reach, ensuring your call connects to the exact destination.
Alternative Methods to Call China from the UK
If you prefer affordable ways to call China from the UK, there are several alternative options available, including calling cards, VoIP services, and social media apps. These methods help reduce international calling costs and make communication convenient for both personal and business use.
Calling Cards
Calling cards are a prepaid method for making international calls at reduced rates. You first dial a local access number, enter your PIN, and then dial the China number to complete the call. Some calling cards may also come with additional charges such as connection fees, expiry limits, or changes in call rates over time. So, it is important to carefully check the terms and conditions before choosing or using a calling card to avoid unexpected costs.
Video Conferencing Apps
Video conferencing apps such as DingTalk and VooV Meeting allow you to connect with people in China through internet-based calls. These platforms are widely used for business meetings, interviews, and group discussions. It also offers features like file sharing, task management, AI-powered voice transcription and meeting recording.
VoIP Services
VoIP services allow you to make international calls using an internet connection instead of traditional phone lines. Many VoIP platforms also offer extra features such as call recording, voicemail, video calling, and contact management, which are useful for both personal and business communication. Since call quality depends on your internet connection, a stable and strong network is important for clear conversations.
Social Media Apps
Social media apps such as WeChat and Tencent QQ are widely used in China for voice and video calls over the internet. These apps usually allow low-cost calls when both users are online, helping reduce international communication expenses. In addition to calling, they also support messaging, file sharing, and group communication features.
What’s the Best Time for Calling China from the UK?
The most suitable time to call China from the United Kingdom is during China’s daytime hours, typically between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Calling within this period increases the chances of reaching someone during working or active hours.
China follows a single time zone (China Standard Time), which is usually 7 to 8 hours ahead of the UK, depending on daylight saving changes. Because of this time gap, early morning in the UK is the most practical time to place a call to China.
Best Time to Call from the UK (GMT/BST) | Correspondent Time in China | Best For |
| 1:00 AM – 3:00 AM | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Early morning calls |
| 3:00 AM – 6:00 AM | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Ideal for business calls |
| 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Late morning contact |
| 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM | End of business hours |
What to Consider Before Calling China from the UK?
Correct Dialing Format
Always use the proper international dialing sequence when calling China from the UK to ensure the call goes through without errors. Begin with the UK exit code, add China’s country code, area code, and then dial the local number.
Network and Call Quality
Ensure you have a strong and stable network connection to avoid dropped calls, delays, or unclear audio during the call. Poor connectivity can interrupt important discussions and reduce call quality.
International Calling Costs
Calling China from the UK is charged as an international call, and the cost depends on your phone provider. To reduce expenses, check your plan or use VoIP services or international calling bundles.
How Much Does It Cost to Dial China from the UK?
The cost of calling China from the UK is usually around $0.05 to $0.60 per minute, depending on your service provider and whether you are calling a mobile or landline number. Traditional phone networks often charge higher rates for international and mobile calls, which can make long conversations expensive.
To reduce costs, many users switch to VoIP services like Calilio, which offer lower per-minute rates along with useful features such as call forwarding, voicemail, and smart call routing. Calilio makes it affordable to stay connected with China for both personal and business communication.
Use the pricing tool below to check the latest call rates for calling from the UK to China with Calilio.
Use the pricing tool below to check the current call rates with Calilio:
Call Routing Detail
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These rates are for reference purposes only and don't represent a binding agreement between the customer and Calilio. Price may vary according to number operator.
Frequently asked questions
Can you call China from the UK?
Yes, you can call China from the UK by using the international dialing format: 00 + 86 + area code (for landlines) + local number or 00 + 86 + mobile number. You can also use VoIP apps like Tencent QQ or WeChat for cheaper internet-based calling.
Can I call China for free?
How many digits are in Chinese phone numbers?
Still have questions?
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