Making an international call on Verizon Wireless involves more than just dialing a number. Success depends on your device settings, your plan features, and the specific country you are calling. This guide walks you through every step to ensure clear, connected communication the first time.
Check Your Plan and Features
Before you dial, verify that your service supports international usage. Without the correct features, your call will not go through. You need to ensure your account is active for roaming and that your specific plan includes the destination in its coverage.
Here are the key items to confirm on your account:
Active International Roaming on your line.
An active TravelPass add-on if you are traveling to Mexico, Canada, or specific other regions.
Paid International Calling or an appropriate data package for other destinations.
You can review these details quickly by logging into your Verizon account online or by calling customer support. Understanding your plan prevents the frustration of a call dropping due to insufficient permissions.
Enable Settings on Your Device
Your phone must be configured to connect to foreign networks. Even with the right plan, your device will refuse to connect if data roaming is turned off. This setting is often the primary reason for failed international calls.
Follow these steps on your smartphone:
Open the Settings app.
Tap Connections (or Cellular on iPhone).
Select Mobile Networks or Cellular Data Options .
Toggle Data Roaming to the ON position.
Ensure that "Roaming" is enabled globally on the device.
Turning this on allows your phone to search for and attach to the local carrier’s tower, which is necessary for call routing.
Dialing Formats for International Calls
Dialing incorrectly is the fastest way to get a "Number not reachable" error. You must use the E.164 format, which includes the exit code, country code, and local number. Do not include the leading zero often found in local numbers.
Use this structure when calling:
Exit Code + Country Code + Area Code + Local Number
For example:
Calling the United Kingdom (London): 011 44 20 XXXX XXXX (Drop the 0 before the local number).
Calling Germany (Berlin): 011 49 30 XXXX XXXX .
Calling Japan (Tokyo): 011 81 3 XXXX XXXX .
On most smartphones, you can also add the "+" symbol by holding down the "0" key, which automatically inserts the correct exit code for your current location.
Understanding Data and Wi-Fi Calling
Modern connectivity offers alternatives to traditional cellular minutes. If your plan does not include robust international minutes, you can use data to bypass high roaming fees entirely.
Consider these options:
Wi-Fi Calling: If your device and the Wi-Fi network support it, you can place calls over internet without using cellular minutes. This is often the most cost-effective method.
Messaging Apps: Applications like WhatsApp, Signal, or FaceTime Audio use data to transmit voice. Ensure the person you are calling has the app installed.
Data Roaming: With Data Roaming enabled, you can use apps like Skype or Google Voice to make calls over the internet, provided you have a stable connection.
