How to Call Bulgaria | Area Codes in Bulgaria

Connecting with friends, family, or business contacts in Bulgaria can be a straightforward process if you understand the dialing format and the specifics of the Bulgarian telephone system. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making calls to Bulgaria from various locations, including the United States, Canada, and other countries.

Understanding International Calling

Before diving into the specifics of calling Bulgaria Phone Number List, it’s essential to grasp some basic concepts related to international dialing:

1. Exit Code: This is the code you dial to exit your country and connect to an international line. For example, in the United States and Canada, the exit code is 011. In many European countries, it is 00.
2. Country Code: Each country has a unique code that follows the exit code. For Bulgaria, the country code is 359.
3. Area Code: Within Bulgaria, different regions and cities have specific area codes. Knowing the correct area code is essential for connecting your call.
4. Local Number: This is the phone number of the person or business you wish to contact, typically consisting of 7 digits for landlines and 8 digits for mobile numbers.

The Dialing Format to Call Bulgaria

To successfully place a call to Bulgaria, follow this format:

Example

If you are calling a number in Sofia, Bulgaria from the United States, you would dial:

Here’s a breakdown of the components:

• 011: U.S. exit code
• 359: Bulgaria country code
• 2: Area code for Sofia
• [Local Number]: The specific number you are trying to reach

If the local number is 1234567, you would dial:

Area Codes in Bulgaria

Bulgaria has a variety of area codes depending on the city or region. Here are some of the major area codes:

When calling a mobile number in Bulgaria, the area code is typically 9 followed by the 7-digit local number. For example, to call a mobile number in Sofia, you would dial:

Step-by-Step Instructions to Call Bulgaria

Calling a Landline in Bulgaria

1. Dial the Exit Code: For calls from the U.S., this is 011.
2. Dial the Country Code: For Bulgaria, this is 359.
3. Dial the Area Code: For example, if you are calling Sofia, you would dial 2.
4. Dial the Local Number: Enter the 7-digit local number.

Example: To call a landline in Sofia with the number 1234567, you would dial:

Calling a Mobile Phone in Bulgaria

1. Dial the Exit Code: For calls from the U.S., this is 011.
2. Dial the Country Code: For Bulgaria, this is 359.
3. Dial the Mobile Code: This is always 9 for mobile phones.
4. Dial the Local Number: Enter the 7-digit local number.

Example: To call a mobile number in Bulgaria with the number 9123456, you would dial:

Tips for Calling Bulgaria

1. Check the Time Difference: Bulgaria is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is UTC+2. During Daylight Saving Time, it shifts to UTC+3. Be mindful of the time difference when making calls.
2. Use a Reliable Calling Service: Consider using a VoIP service like Vonage, Skype, or Ooma to get affordable rates and high-quality connections when calling Bulgaria.
3. Utilize Mobile Apps: Apps like Viber and WhatsApp allow you to make calls to Bulgaria over the internet, often at no cost if both parties are using the same app.
4. Keep Emergency Numbers Handy: The emergency number in Bulgaria is 112 for police, fire, and medical emergencies.
5. Verify the Number Format: Always double-check the area code and local number to avoid misdialing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the Exit Code: Forgetting to dial the exit code can lead to the call not going through.
• Using the Wrong Area Code: Make sure you have the correct area code for the city you are calling.
• Dialing Leading Zeros: When calling a mobile number, do not include the leading zero in the area code.

Understanding Bulgarian Phone Etiquette

When calling Bulgaria, it’s important to be aware of local customs and etiquette:

1. Punctuality: Bulgarians value punctuality, especially in business settings. If you have scheduled a call, be sure to call at the agreed-upon time.
2. Direct Communication: Bulgarians appreciate straightforward communication. Be clear and concise in your conversations.
3. Use of First Names: While Bulgarians often use first names in conversation, it’s best to start with a formal address until invited to use first names.
4. Business Hours: Standard business hours in Bulgaria are typically from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Be mindful of these hours when making calls.
5. Cultural Sensitivity: Bulgarians are generally friendly and informal, but it’s important to respect their cultural norms and practices.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your call to Bulgaria isn’t going through, consider the following troubleshooting tips:

1. Check the Number: Ensure you have dialed the correct number, including the exit code, country code, area code, and local number.
2. Network Issues: Sometimes, network issues can prevent calls from connecting. Try again later or check with your service provider.
3. International Calling Setup: Ensure that your phone plan is set up for international calling. Some plans may require you to enable this feature.
4. VoIP Connection: If using a VoIP service, ensure you have a stable internet connection to avoid dropped calls or poor quality.
5. Dial Tone Differences: Be aware that the dial tone in Bulgaria may sound different from what you are used to. After dialing, you should hear a ringing tone similar to a set of two short bursts.

Calling Bulgaria from the U.S. and Canada

To call Bulgaria from the U.S. or Canada, you’ll need to follow this dialing format:

1. Dial the exit code for the U.S. or Canada, which is 011.
2. Dial the country code for Bulgaria, which is 359.
3. Dial the area code (1-2 digits) and local number.

For example, to call a number in Sofia, Bulgaria from the U.S., you would dial:

Calling Bulgaria from Other Countries

The dialing format for calling Bulgaria from other countries is similar to the U.S. and Canada, but with a different exit code:

1. Dial the exit code for your country. This is often 00, but can vary depending on your location.
2. Dial the country code for Bulgaria, which is 359.
3. Dial the area code (1-2 digits) and local number.

For example, to call a number in Sofia, Latest Lead Bulgaria from the United Kingdom, you would dial:

Conclusion

Calling Bulgaria from abroad is a manageable task once you understand the necessary steps and formats. By following the outlined dialing format, utilizing reliable calling services, and keeping a few tips in mind, you can easily stay connected with your contacts in Bulgaria.