The sequence +255 is the official international Country Calling Code for the United Republic of Tanzania.
If you receive a call or encounter a number starting with +255, the communication is originating from Tanzania, a large country in East Africa known for Mount Kilimanjaro and its national parks. This code is crucial for connecting globally and requires a specific dialing format that includes a city area code.
This article details the exact location, time zone, and the correct dialing procedures for using the +255 country code.
Location of Country Code +255: Tanzania
The +255 code covers the entire nation, including the mainland and the island of Zanzibar.
| Detail | Information |
| Country: | Tanzania (East Africa) |
| Continent: | Africa |
| Capital City: | Dodoma |
| Largest City/Economic Hub: | Dar es Salaam |
| Time Zone: | Eastern Africa Time (EAT), which is UTC/GMT +3 hours. |
Time Zone Comparison
Tanzania (EAT) is significantly ahead of North American time zones:
- 7 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST).
- 3 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT/UTC).
Dialing Rules for Tanzania (+255)
Tanzania uses a 9-digit National Significant Number (NSN) format, which includes a 2-digit area code (for fixed lines) or a 2-digit mobile operator prefix.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions (From the US/Canada):
- Dial the International Exit Code: Use 011 (standard for the US/Canada) or the universal plus sign (+) on a mobile phone.
- Dial the Tanzania Country Code: Enter 255.
- Dial the Area/Mobile Code: Enter the appropriate 2-digit regional code (omitting the domestic ‘0’ prefix used locally in Tanzania).
- Dial the Local Number: Enter the remaining 7 digits of the local number.
Major City Area Codes (2-Digit Fixed Line Prefixes)
| City/Region | Area Code (Dial After +255) |
| Dar es Salaam | 22 |
| Zanzibar City | 24 |
| Dodoma / Iringa | 26 |
| Arusha / Tanga | 27 |
| Mwanza | 28 |
Security and Safety Advice
Like many African country codes, +255 is sometimes used by international scammers to perpetrate fraud.
- High Cost: Do not return a missed call from an unknown +255 number out of curiosity. The call will be billed at high international per-minute rates by your carrier.
- WhatsApp Scams: Be vigilant against calls or texts via WhatsApp from +255 numbers, as these are often associated with investment schemes, job scams, or phishing attempts.
- Safety Rule: Never answer or return unexpected calls from this code, and never provide personal or financial information to an unsolicited caller.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is 255 a US area code?
No. The US area code range starts at 201. The number 255 is the country code for Tanzania.
How long is a Tanzanian phone number?
A full international phone number for Tanzania consists of the +255 country code followed by 9 digits (2-digit area code + 7-digit local number), totaling 12 digits.
What language is spoken in Tanzania?
The official languages of Tanzania are Swahili and English. English is widely used in business, government, and tourism.
Conclusion
The +255 Country Code is the correct international dialing prefix for Tanzania. When making a call, use the prefix, the 2-digit area code, and the 7-digit local number. For safety, ensure you check the 7-hour time difference from the US East Coast and ignore all unsolicited calls from this international number.
