Calling from Switzerland to the USA is a simple process, but there are a few things you need to know to ensure you get the best rates and quality. In this article, we will discuss the various methods you can use to make a call from Switzerland to the USA, as well as the costs associated with each method. We will also provide some tips on how to save money on your international calls.
The most common way to make a call from Switzerland to the USA is to use a landline. To do this, you will need to dial the international access code for Switzerland (00), followed by the country code for the USA (1), and then the area code and phone number of the person you are calling. For example, to call a number in New York City, you would dial 0012125551212. Landline calls to the USA are typically more expensive than other methods, so if you are looking to save money, you may want to consider using a different method.
Another option for making a call from Switzerland to the USA is to use a mobile phone. To do this, you will need to have a mobile phone plan that includes international calling. Once you have a plan, you can simply dial the phone number of the person you are calling in the USA. Mobile phone calls to the USA are typically cheaper than landline calls, but they can still be expensive, especially if you are making a long call. If you are planning on making a lot of calls to the USA, you may want to consider purchasing an international calling card. International calling cards can be purchased from a variety of retailers, and they offer a variety of calling plans that can save you money.
Dialing the Correct Code
Calling from Switzerland to the United States requires dialing a specific combination of numbers. The procedure involves several steps:
- Dial the International Access Code: Start the call by dialing 00, which is the international access code used in Switzerland.
- Enter the Country Code: Next, dial 1, the country code for the United States.
- Dial the Area Code: After entering the country code, dial the three-digit area code of the city or region in the United States you wish to call. For example, the area code for New York City is 212.
- Dial the Local Number: Finally, dial the seven-digit local telephone number of the person or business you are calling.
By following these steps carefully, you can ensure that your call to the United States from Switzerland is properly connected.
Using a Landline or Mobile Phone
To call from Switzerland to the United States using a landline, dial the following:
- 00 – international access code
- 1 – U.S. country code
- area code (3 digits)
- local number (7 digits)
For example: 00 1 212 555 1212
If you are using a mobile phone, the process is slightly different. First, check with your mobile service provider for any specific instructions or fees. The general format for dialing to the U.S. from a mobile phone is as follows:
Calling the U.S. Using a Swiss Cell Phone
| Service | Dialing Instructions |
|---|---|
| Orange | 00 1 – Area Code – Local Number |
| Swisscom | +1 – Area Code – Local Number |
| Sunrise | 00 1 – Area Code – Local Number |
Note: It is important to remember that if you use your mobile phone without a calling plan that includes the U.S., you may incur significant roaming charges.
Choosing a Phone Service Provider
3. VoIP Services
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services, also known as internet calling, are becoming increasingly popular for international calls due to their affordability and convenience. They work by transmitting voice data over the internet instead of traditional phone lines.
Advantages of VoIP Services:
- Significantly lower call rates: VoIP providers often offer much lower per-minute rates than traditional carriers, especially for long-distance calls.
- Flexible subscription plans: VoIP services typically come with various subscription plans tailored to different calling needs. This allows you to choose a plan that best fits your budget and usage habits.
- Additional features: Many VoIP providers offer additional features such as voicemail, call forwarding, and caller ID display, which can enhance your calling experience.
Disadvantages of VoIP Services:
- Internet dependency: VoIP services rely on a stable internet connection. Poor internet connectivity can result in call quality issues or interruptions.
- Equipment requirements: Some VoIP providers may require you to purchase a special VoIP phone or hardware.
- Reliability: VoIP services may not be as reliable as traditional phone lines, especially during internet outages or technical issues.
Popular VoIP Providers for Calls from Switzerland to the USA:
| Provider | Per-minute Rate (cents) | Subscription Options | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skype | 2.3 | Pay-as-you-go, monthly subscriptions | Voicemail, call forwarding, group calling |
| Vonage | 1.5 | Monthly subscriptions | Unlimited USA and Canada calling, voicemail |
| Google Voice | 1.7 | Monthly subscriptions | Voicemail, call screening, call recording |
Calling Card Options
Calling cards are a convenient and cost-effective option for making calls from Switzerland to the USA. There are several different calling cards available, each with its own rates and features. Here are a few of the most popular options:
| Option | Rates | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Swisscom Hello | CHF 0.09/min | Unlimited calls to the USA and Canada |
| Sunrise Call Me | CHF 0.10/min | 100 free minutes per month to the USA |
| Lebara Mobile | CHF 0.12/min | Unlimited calls to the USA and Canada |
4. Top-Up Cards
Top-up cards are another option for making calls from Switzerland to the USA. These cards are available in a variety of denominations, and they can be used to add minutes to your existing SIM card. Once you have added minutes to your card, you can make calls to the USA at the rates specified by your provider. Top-up cards are a convenient option for travelers who do not want to sign up for a long-term calling plan. However, they can be more expensive than other calling options, and they may not offer as many features.
Internet Calling Services
Internet calling services offer a convenient and cost-effective way to make calls from Switzerland to the USA. These services utilize the internet to transmit voice signals, eliminating the need for traditional phone lines and reducing call costs. With a stable internet connection, you can make calls from your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Some popular internet calling services include:
- Skype
- Google Voice
- Viber
- FaceTime
These services offer various features, including high-quality voice calls, video calling, instant messaging, and file sharing. Additionally, some services offer paid plans with expanded features, such as voicemail, call forwarding, and international calling.
Comparison of Internet Calling Services
The following table compares some of the key features of popular internet calling services:
| Feature | Skype | Google Voice | Viber | FaceTime | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voice Calls | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (only between Apple devices) |
| Video Calling | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Instant Messaging | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| File Sharing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| International Calling | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Paid Plans | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Toll-Free Numbers
Toll-free numbers, also known as 800 numbers in the US, are a convenient way to make calls to businesses and organizations without incurring any charges. These numbers are typically used by companies to provide customer support, sales inquiries, or other services. To call a toll-free number from Switzerland, follow these steps:
- Dial the international access code for Switzerland, which is 00.
- Dial the country code for the United States, which is 1.
- Dial the area code for the location you are calling.
- Dial the toll-free number, which will start with 800, 888, 877, or 866.
For example, to call a toll-free number in New York City, you would dial 00 1 212 800 1234.
Here is a table summarizing the steps to call toll-free numbers from Switzerland:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Dial 00, the international access code for Switzerland. |
| 2 | Dial 1, the country code for the United States. |
| 3 | Dial the area code for the location you are calling. |
| 4 | Dial the toll-free number, which will start with 800, 888, 877, or 866. |
Dial the Exit Code
To make an international call from Switzerland to the USA, you need to dial the exit code for Switzerland, which is “00”.
Dial the Country Code
After dialing the exit code, you need to dial the country code for the USA, which is “1”.
Dial the Area Code
Next, you need to dial the area code for the city in the USA that you are calling. For example, the area code for New York City is “212”.
Dial the Phone Number
Finally, you need to dial the phone number for the person you are calling.
Example
To call a phone number in New York City from Switzerland, you would dial the following:
- 00
- 1
- 212
- 555-1212
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The Call Doesn’t Go Through
If you dial the number correctly but the call doesn’t go through, there could be a problem with your phone or your service provider. Try restarting your phone or contacting your service provider for assistance.
The Call Quality is Bad
If the call quality is bad, there could be a problem with the network or your phone. Try moving to a different location or restarting your phone.
I Can’t Hear the Other Person
If you can’t hear the other person, there could be a problem with your phone’s microphone or speaker. Try adjusting the volume or using a different phone.
I’m getting a busy signal
The person you are calling may be on the phone or their phone may be turned off. Try calling back later.
I’m getting a recording that says the number is not valid
The number you dialed may be incorrect. Check the number and try dialing again.
I’m getting a recording that says the number is out of service
The number you dialed may be out of service. Try calling the person back later.
I’m getting a recording that says the number is not in service
The number you dialed may not be in service. Try calling the person back later.
| Exit Code | Country Code | Area Code |
|---|---|---|
| 00 | 1 | 212 |
How to Call from Switzerland to USA
Calling from Switzerland to the USA is a straightforward process, but there are a few things you need to know to ensure you make the call successfully. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Dial the international access code for Switzerland, which is 00
- Dial the country code for the USA, which is 1
- Dial the area code of the city in the USA you are calling, followed by the phone number
For example, to call a phone number in New York City, you would dial: 00 1 212 XXX XXXX
If you are calling from a mobile phone, you may need to add a “+” sign before the international access code. For example, to call the same phone number in New York City from a mobile phone, you would dial: +00 1 212 XXX XXXX
Once you have dialed the correct number, the call will be connected and you can start talking to your recipient in the USA.
