How to call Turkey from the US

Making a phone call from the US to Turkey is simple once you know the correct dialling format – and there are plenty of free and low-cost options to stay in touch. Whether you’re calling friends in Istanbul, family in Ankara, or handling business with contacts in Izmir, you can connect instantly using mobile apps or traditional phone lines.

To make a direct call, here’s what you’ll need:
011 (US exit code) + 90 (Turkey’s country code) + area or mobile code + local number.

Here’s how to do it easily – plus some smart, affordable ways to stay connected and support loved ones beyond just a quick chat.

DOWNLOAD PAYSEND
 

1. Free ways to call Turkey from the US

If you and your contact both have internet access, calling Turkey doesn’t have to cost a thing. Here are the most popular free call options:

• WhatsApp – Voice and video calling, as long as both parties have the app.
• Viber – Commonly used in Turkey, Viber offers free app-to-app calls and a paid option (Viber Out) for landline/mobile calls.
• Facebook Messenger – A widely adopted app that works well for free calls, especially for younger users.
• Google Meet, FaceTime, or Zoom – Great if you’re scheduling catchups or family chats with video included.

All these apps just need a Wi-Fi connection or mobile data – perfect for calling from anywhere, anytime, for free.

2. Low-cost ways to call Turkish mobiles or landlines

If the person you're calling doesn’t have access to one of these apps—or you're calling a business or landline in Turkey—there are still cheap ways to connect.

Best low-cost options:

• Google Voice – Pay a small per-minute rate to call Turkey directly. Rates are generally lower than mobile providers.
• Skype to Phone – Buy credits and use Skype to call Turkish landlines and mobiles for a fraction of the cost.
• Rebtel – No internet required on the receiver’s end. Rebtel uses local numbers to keep rates low.
• International phone cards – These still exist and can offer great value, especially if you’re calling regularly.

Before choosing a method, compare rates and check if VAT or connection fees apply. Some services offer trial minutes or low-cost packages for regular callers.

DOWNLOAD PAYSEND
 

3. Dialling format for calls to Turkey

When calling Turkey from the US, follow this sequence:

011 – US exit code
90 – Turkey’s country code
Area code (1–3 digits) or mobile code
Local number

Example 1: Calling a landline in Istanbul

Istanbul has two area codes:

• European side: 212
• Asian side: 216

So if the local number is 1234567 and you’re calling someone on the European side, you’d dial: 011 90 212 123 4567

Example 2: Calling a mobile number in Turkey

Turkish mobile numbers begin with 5 and are 10 digits long (after the country code). For example: 011 90 532 123 4567 (Mobile provider Turkcell, prefix 532)

You’ll find prefixes like:

• 530–539 (Turkcell)
• 540–549 (Vodafone)
• 550–559 (Türk Telekom Mobile)

Tip: Always omit the leading zero if the number is written in a local format (e.g. 0532 becomes 532).

4. Don’t forget the time difference

Turkey operates on Turkey Time (TRT), which is 7 hours ahead of US Eastern Time and 10 hours ahead of US Pacific Time. Keep this in mind when placing calls to avoid phoning someone in the middle of the night.

5. Need to do more than talk? Send money home to Turkey

If you're supporting loved ones in Turkey, there's more than one way to stay connected. Sending money quickly, safely and affordably is another powerful way to show you care.

Whether it's helping with rent, school expenses, healthcare or a special celebration, you can:

• Send money directly to Turkish bank cards or accounts
• Choose a secure and reliable service with great exchange rates
• Complete the transfer online in minutes*

It’s a seamless way to lend a helping hand – even from thousands of miles away.

*We’ll send your money in real-time, but it could take up to 3 business days depending on your recipient’s bank processing time.

In summary

There are multiple ways to call Turkey from the US – many of them free. If you’re using a traditional phone line, remember the format: 011 + 90 + area/mobile code + local number.

For digital-savvy users, apps like WhatsApp and Viber make it easy and free to stay in touch. And if you’re calling landlines or mobiles without internet, options like Skype or Google Voice offer affordable solutions.

Whatever method you choose, staying close to Turkey has never been easier – whether you're calling Istanbul for a quick check-in, or sending support that really makes a difference.
 

DOWNLOAD PAYSEND