In today’s globally connected world, calling someone overseas is just another part of daily life. But when it comes to calling Taiwan, it’s crucial to get the dialing format just right—and it all starts with country code 886.
Whether you’re checking in with family, reaching out to a business partner, or handling remote team communication, dialing Taiwan should be seamless and straightforward. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to use the Taiwan country code, area-specific dialing instructions, time zone details, cost-saving tips, and much more.
We’re here to make calling Taiwan easier, cheaper, and error-free. Let’s dive into it.
Quick Reference: Taiwan Country Code 886 Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | Taiwan |
| Country Code | +886 |
| Local Time (Taipei) | UTC+8 |
| ISO Alpha-2 Code | TW |
| ISO Alpha-3 Code | TWN |
| US Dialing Format | 011 + 886 + Area Code + Number |
| UK Dialing Format | 00 + 886 + Area Code + Number |
What Is Country Code 886?
Country code 886 is the official dialing prefix for Taiwan used when calling the country from abroad. It connects your call to Taiwan’s national telephone system via the international telecom grid.
If you’re calling from outside Taiwan, your phone number must start with this code—without it, your call won’t go through.
Structure of an International Call to Taiwan:
Exit Code + Country Code + Area Code + Phone Number
Example:
- Calling from the US: 011-886-2-XXXX-XXXX (Taipei)
- Calling from the UK: 00-886-4-XXXX-XXXX (Taichung)
How to Call Taiwan from the US, UK, and Other Countries?
Making a call to Taiwan from abroad is a straightforward 3-step process:
Step-by-step Dialing Guide:
- Dial the international exit code
- US/Canada: 011
- UK/Europe: 00
- Add Taiwan’s country code: 886
- Enter the local area code (omit the starting zero)
- Dial the recipient’s phone number
Example:
To call a mobile in Kaohsiung from New York:
011-886-7-XXXX-XXXX
List of Major Taiwan Area Codes with +886 Prefix
Here’s a quick-reference list of area codes in Taiwan. Add these to the country code 886 for accurate dialing:
| City / Region | Full International Code |
| Taipei | +886-2 |
| Keelung | +886-2 |
| Taoyuan | +886-3 |
| Hsinchu | +886-3 |
| Chungli | +886-3 |
| Chunan | +886-37 |
| Lotung | +886-39 |
| Hualien | +886-38 |
| Taitung | +886-89 |
| Taichung | +886-4 |
| Changhua | +886-4 |
| Fengyuan | +886-4 |
| Chunghsing-Hsintsun | +886-49 |
| Chiayi County | +886-5 |
| Tainan | +886-6 |
| Hsiaying | +886-6 |
| Kaohsiung | +886-7 |
| Pingtung | +886-8 |
How to Call Taiwan Mobile Numbers Using Country Code 886
Taiwan mobile numbers usually begin with 09 locally. When dialing internationally:
- Remove the 0
- Add +886
Format:
+886-9XX-XXXXXX
Example:
Calling from the US:
011-886-912-345678
Calling from the UK:
00-886-912-345678
Taiwan Time Zone: Know Before You Dial
Taiwan is in the UTC+8 time zone and does not observe daylight saving time.
Time Zone Check:
If it’s 9 AM in London (UTC+0), it’s 5 PM in Taiwan.
Be sure to consider time zone differences to avoid calling too early or too late!
Affordable Ways to Call Taiwan (Save on International Rates)
Tired of high call rates? Use one of these cost-saving options:
Top Apps to Call Taiwan:
- Talk Home App – Cheap, clear, and optimized for low-data calls
- Rebtel – No internet needed for local-quality calls
- Skype – Offers calling plans to Taiwan
Use SIM Cards with International Bundles:
- Talk Home SIM – Offers Taiwan plans with no contract
- Google Fi – Covers Taiwan in international zones
- Airalo eSIM – Great for travelers calling Taiwan
Do You Need the 0 in Taiwan Area Codes?
Nope. When dialing from abroad with country code 886, always drop the leading zero from area codes.
Example:
Local Number: 02-1234-5678 (Taipei)
International Format: +886-2-1234-5678
Frequently Asked Questions about Country Code 886
Q1. What does country code 886 represent?
Taiwan.
Q2. Can I text Taiwan using country code 886?
Yes, international texting supports this code.
Q3. Is 886 used for landlines and mobile phones?
Yes, but mobile numbers usually start with 9.
Q4. How do I know if a number is in Taiwan?
If it starts with +886 or 00886, it’s a Taiwan number.
Q5. Does Taiwan observe daylight saving time?
No, Taiwan stays in UTC+8 year-round.
Q6. Which city uses the code +886-6?
Tainan and Hsiaying.
Q7. Can I send mobile top-ups to Taiwan?
Yes, with apps like Ding or Talk Home.
Q8. What is Taiwan’s ISO code?
ISO 2-letter: TW, ISO 3-letter: TWN.
Q9. What happens if I forget the country code?
Your call may not go through or reach the wrong country.
Q10. What is the difference between +886 and 00886?
Both mean the same; 00 is the prefix in many countries.
Conclusion: Your Key to Calling Taiwan Starts with Country Code 886
To sum it all up, the country code 886 is your gateway to Taiwan’s phone network. Whether you’re calling friends, family, or coworkers, using the right dialing format ensures your call reaches the right destination. From area codes to affordable call options, you’re now equipped to make that call confidently and cost-effectively.
So, go ahead—save this guide, share it with your contacts, and never worry about calling Taiwan again!
