Understanding India's +91 Phone Code
+91 is India's country code in the international telephone numbering system. This prefix connects calls to Indian numbers from overseas, appearing before area codes and local numbers.
How +91 Works in International Calls
- From abroad: Dial your country's exit code + 91 + area code (without 0) + local number
Example (from US):
011 91 80 XXXX XXXXExample (from UK):00 91 22 XXXX XXXX - Mobile numbers: +91 is followed by the 10-digit mobile number (no area code required)
Example:
+91 98XXXX XXXX
Domestic vs International Usage
| Context | Format | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Within India | 0 + STD code + local number | 080 XXXX XXXX |
| International | +91 + number (without 0) | +91 80 XXXX XXXX |
Key Differences
- Landlines: Require area code after +91 (drop the initial 0 used domestically)
- Mobiles: Direct 10-digit dialing after +91
- Domestic calls: Use 0 before area code, not +91
Common Errors to Avoid
- ✘ Adding 0 after +91 (
+91 080...) - ✘ Omitting area code for landlines
- ✘ Using +91 within India (no need for domestic calls)
Banking and Service Numbers
Some Indian banks use +91 in customer care numbers (e.g., ICICI: +91 800 1080). These are toll-free when dialed with +91 prefix internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is +91 only for mobile numbers? A: No. Use +91 for both Indian mobiles and landlines (with area code).
Q: Why do Indian numbers show +91 on WhatsApp? A: Apps display +91 to indicate the country code for proper international routing.
Q: Can I call a +91 number from Skype? A: Yes. Dial +91 followed by the 10-digit mobile or area code + local number.
Q: Does +91 cost more than domestic calls? A: Only when calling from abroad - rates depend on your international plan.
Recent Changes
- TRAI mandates 10-digit mobile dialing nationwide
- Fixed-line numbers now include STD codes in full (e.g., 011 for Delhi)
- Scam alerts: Fraud calls often spoof +91 numbers - verify unexpected calls
For domestic calls within India, use the 0-prefixed format without +91. Reserve +91 for international communications to ensure proper call routing.
