China country code (+86) — formats & examples
Use +86 to call China. See number formats, common mistakes, and plan the best time to call.
Dialing information
- Country code+86
- LanguagesMandarin, Cantonese
- Time zonesAsia/Shanghai
- Phonecall rate$1.60/min
Landline $1.60/minMobile $1.60/min
Call China from your browser at low rates. No app or SIM required.
Call China nowCalling format
- Country code+86
- Mobile format pattern+86 XXX XXXX XXXX
- Landline format pattern+86 XX XXXX XXXX
- NotesOmit leading 0 when using country code; include area code where applicable.
Valid number patterns
Valid mobile number pattern
+86 XXX XXXX XXXX
e.g. +86 131 2345 6789
Valid landline number pattern
+86 XX XXXX XXXX
Common dialing mistakes for China
- Forgetting to dial +86 before the local number - international calls to China require the country code.
- Keeping the leading zero when dialing from abroad - drop the leading 0 after the country code +86.
- Mixing up mobile and landline formats - China numbers differ in length and structure; check the pattern before dialing.
- Calling outside local business hours - check China's time zone to avoid very early or late calls.
- Omitting the country code when calling from another country - always use +86 for China.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about calling China with the +86 country code.
- What is an example of a mobile or landline number in China?
- A typical mobile number format is: +86 123456789. A landline number might look like: +86 12345678. Omit any leading 0.
- Are there any special tips for calling China internationally?
- Remember to take into account the time zones in China, and the fact that primary languages are Mandarin, Cantonese. Dial +86 before the local number.
- How much does it cost to call China?
- Calling China with Phonecall starts from $1.60/min for landlines and $1.60/min for mobile numbers. We show the rate before you dial.
- What is the calling code for China?
- The calling code for China is +86. To call, start with the international access code, then dial +86 followed by the local number.
- What languages are spoken in China?
- In China, the main languages spoken are Mandarin, Cantonese.
- Do I need to install an app to call China?
- No app download is necessary. You can call numbers in China directly from your browser using Phonecall. Just enter the China phone number (+86) to get started.
Call planning
Check local time in China and your location so you call at a good time.
Time zones in China
Asia/Shanghai
Best times to call are typically 9 AM – 5 PM local time in China. Avoid calling during early morning (before 8 AM) or late evening (after 9 PM) local time.